If you do sign a contract, be prepared to live by its terms. No one likes to be blindsided. Minor problems frequently become major disputes because of poor project communication. All parties generally benefit from an open and honest exchange of information throughout the project. You're almost always better off in the long run letting the other parties know about problems and delays as soon as they occur and working to get them resolved before they lead to major disputes.
Sureties also do well to stay informed throughout the project before major problems develop.
A surety who visits the job site periodically and who monitors the job's progress is more likely to find a cooperative principal, open disclosures, and, thus, a more productive dialogue than if he appears for the first time after a major default. Owners and subcontractors also benefit from this continuous exchange of information because it usually helps lead to quick, cost-effective claims handling if a default subsequently occurs. After a default, work with the surety to help simplify the claims process. But most sureties are very hesitant to step in until they have a reasonably complete picture of the project's status. When the general contractor defaults, there are several things a supplier or subcontractor can do to help complete the project and speed up the bond claim process.