Davis-Bacon on Design-Build Federal Contracts
Apr 25, 2026
Design-build delivery is now common on federal construction projects, raising questions about how Davis-Bacon prevailing wage requirements apply. The short answer: Davis-Bacon applies to the construction portion of design-build contracts, not the design services portion.
Pre-Award Requirements
For design-build solicitations, the contracting agency must identify the applicable wage determination before issuing the solicitation — even before the design is complete. The agency uses the expected type and location of construction to determine the applicable WD.
Managing WD Updates During Long Design Phases
Design-build projects often have long design phases. If the WD is updated between solicitation and the start of construction, contractors should review whether the updated WD applies and adjust labor cost estimates accordingly.