Technicians installing data cabling in new construction. Subcontracting Divisions 27 and 28

Should You Subcontract Divisions 27 & 28 Work Directly or Through an Electrical Contractor?

Learn the Pros and Cons of Each Approach

When managing a complex construction project, general contractors often face a critical decision: Should Divisions 27 and 28—covering communications infrastructure and electronic safety/security systems—be subcontracted directly to a low-voltage integrator, or packaged through the electrical contractor who then subs it out?

Both methods are widely used in commercial construction, but each has trade-offs in terms of cost, coordination, communication, and compliance—especially when working with fiber optics, security systems, fire alarms, and structured cabling.

This guide breaks down the pros and cons of each strategy, explains what subcontracting Divisions 27 and 28 includes, and outlines when each approach works best.

What Are Divisions 27 and 28?

In the CSI MasterFormat system, Divisions 27 and 28 encompass critical building technologies often categorized under “low-voltage” but with distinct scopes:

Division 27: Communications

Division 28: Electronic Safety & Security

These systems are technology-intensive and require strict adherence to NEC, TIA, BICSI, UL, and NFPA standards. Errors in installation can result in costly rework, failed inspections, or downtime after turnover.

Option 1: Subcontracting Through the Electrical Contractor

Pros

  • Simplifies paperwork (fewer direct subs)
  • Allows electrical contractor to coordinate both power and data
  • Familiar model for many general contractors

Cons

  • Adds markups (5–15%) on low-voltage work
  • Electrical contractors often lack in-house Division 27/28 expertise
  • More communication layers between GC and system integrator
  • Risk of rework due to incorrect cable specs, fiber terminations, or NEC/TIA non-compliance

Option 2: Subcontracting Divisions 27 & 28 Directly to a Low-Voltage Integrator

Pros

  • 5–10% cost savings by removing EC markup
  • Direct communication with telecom, security, and fire alarm experts
  • Cleaner project coordination and RFI turnaround
  • Installers trained on OTDRs, Fluke testers, NEC/BICSI codes
  • Better compliance documentation and system certification
  • Future-proof designs using the latest materials and topology standards

Cons

  • GC has one more subcontractor to manage
  • Design team must clearly delineate scope between Divisions 26/27/28

When to Use Each Approach

Use the electrical contractor model when:

  • The low-voltage scope is minimal or commodity-grade (e.g., a few data drops in a retail shell)
  • You have a longstanding EC who reliably subs quality Division 27/28 firms
  • Project schedule or team limitations make reducing the number of subs a priority

Subcontract directly to a Division 27/28 integrator when:

  • The project includes complex systems like fiber optics, fire alarms, security, AV, or DAS
  • You want to reduce costs and avoid EC markup
  • Clear communication, fast RFI resolution, and accurate testing are critical
  • You need guaranteed compliance with TIA, NEC, NFPA 72, and local AHJs
  • Long-term system performance and documentation matter (e.g., LEED, mission-critical environments)

What Makes Newport Network Solutions a Strong Division 27 & 28 Partner?

At Newport Network Solutions, Inc., we specialize exclusively in Divisions 27 and 28, making us an ideal fit whether you choose direct subcontracting or work through your electrical partner.

We regularly operate under both models:

  • Direct to the General Contractor: for full visibility, control, and streamlined coordination
  • Subcontracted through the Electrical Contractor: when bundling is preferred for schedule or paperwork

Our team adapts to your project delivery method and supports your success either way—with scope clarity, compliance assurance, and real-time communication from preconstruction to punch.

We serve as:

  • A collaborative design-assist partner
  • A plan-spec subcontractor
  • A turnkey integrator for communications and safety systems

Optimize Your Project Strategy for Subcontracting Divisions 27 & 28

Subcontracting strategy matters—especially for systems that connect and protect your building. A few percentage points saved (or lost) can have ripple effects across your schedule, inspections, and owner satisfaction.

Direct subcontracting with a Division 27/28 expert like Newport Network Solutions improves technical quality, coordination, and cost efficiency—particularly on tech-heavy or design-driven jobs.

Subbing through your EC might make sense when the scope is small or the EC has a proven telecom/security partner in place.

Still deciding? We’re happy to review your project and help you evaluate which approach makes the most sense.

Services We Provide

Newport Network Solutions delivers Division 27 and 28 systems nationwide, including:

Division 27 – Communications

  • Structured Cabling (CAT6, CAT6A, Fiber Optics)
  • Network Room Buildouts
  • Cable Management Systems
  • Wireless Infrastructure (Wi-Fi, DAS)
  • Pathways & Raceways

Division 28 – Electronic Safety & Security

  • Fire Alarm Design & Installation (NICET-certified)
  • Access Control & Entry Systems
  • Video Surveillance (CCTV)
  • Intrusion Detection
  • Intercoms & Paging
  • Emergency Notification

Our technicians are BICSI, NICET, and manufacturer-certified, and every system is installed and tested to TIA-568, NEC, and AHJ requirements, with documentation provided for turnover.

Build Smarter with Newport Network Solutions

With Newport Network Solutions, you’re not just hiring a subcontractor—you’re gaining a Division 27 & 28 partner who understands:

  • The full construction lifecycle
  • Code compliance and testing
  • Scope coordination with other trades
  • Owner turnover requirements and expectations

Based in New Berlin WI with an office in Madison, WI:
🌐 Visit us online: newportnetworksolutions.com
🔗 Connect on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/newport-network-solutions
📞 Contact us today to review your project or request a quote:

Contact: Adrian Crabb – Business Development Manager
Phone: 608-572-2654
Email: [email protected]

Ready to hire a division 27 & 28 subcontractor?

Let’s talk about your unique needs and discuss how we can partner on your upcoming builds.

Contact: Adrian Crabb, Business Development Manager
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 608-572-2654

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