To build a successful and sustainable business, you need to offload tasks. Even the most skilled roofing professional needs help to streamline efficiency.
You can’t spread yourself too thin, or you could burn out quickly. That’s where roofing subcontractors come in. However, this can often be easier said than done.
Finding a pool of qualified and top roofing subcontractors can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve rounded up some tips to help. Here’s everything you need to know about finding and hiring quality roofing subcontractors. Let’s dive in.
What Are Roofing Subcontractors?
Roofing subcontractors are independent roofing professionals that companies hire for specific jobs. They aren’t full-time employees and don’t usually qualify for benefits.
Subcontractors typically specialize in a specific area of construction work. For example, roofing subcontractors specialize in roofing, while drywall subcontractors specialize in drywall.
Subcontractors can be hired for multiple jobs from different companies at a time. You can hire these types of workers for short-term or long-term contracts.
On Monday, a subcontractor could complete work for ABC Roofing Company; on Tuesday, they could be hired to work for 123 Roofing Company.
Essentially, they are free agents in the construction industry and aren’t tied to one specific company.
Why You Might Use Roofing Subcontractors
Hiring roofing subcontractors can be a smart strategy for your business. Here are some reasons why it might make sense for your company.
Flexibility
You may not be ready to hire a full staff, but you need extra help to complete roof robs. Working with subcontractors gives you flexibility to get the help you need without long-term commitments.
Seasonal Support
During your busy season, you may need extra hands to help keep up with the demand. However, you may only need to hire these workers for a short time.
Roofing subcontractors can help provide seasonal support to get you through the busy season.
Specialized Skills
Aside from offering extra hands to complete a simple roofing job, some subcontractors specialize in certain skills. You can bring a subcontractor on your team to help provide expertise and enhance the project.
How to Find Roofing Subcontractors
Finding the right roofing subcontractors doesn’t have to be daunting. Here are some tips to help you find reliable subcontractors.
Post on Job Boards
Utilize online job boards, like LinkedIn, to find subcontractors. Upload job listings that detail the requirements you’re looking for in a roofing subcontractor. Ensure your post includes pay, hours, and job details.
Leverage Social Media
Use your social media pages to find leads on great subcontractors. You can post a job ad for help on your Facebook and Instagram accounts to find roofing subcontractors.
You never know who may know someone qualified for the job! Your customers can share the post and get it to the right audience.
Use Your Network
Ask for subcontractor recommendations in local roofing forums and other industry-specific groups. If you have a relationship with other roofers in your area, ask them for referrals on subcontractors they work with.
You can also ask your staff and other subcontractors. If you go this route, be clear that you’re not looking to replace them. You need the extra help to improve your bandwidth.
Partner with Local Schools
Local trade schools can be a great resource for finding roofing subcontractors. They may have students or apprentices looking for experience. You can establish relationships with trade schools in your area to create a pipeline of new talent.
Area Unions and Associations
Contact roofing unions in your area for recommendations for skilled workers. Additionally, if there are any chapters of roofing associations in your area, you can contact them to find roofing subcontractors.
Hiring Best Practices for Subcontractors
Follow these hiring best practices as you hire roofing subcontractors.
Check References
Before signing any contracts, be sure to check your subcontractor’s references. This helps you ensure that the worker has a solid history of good work and can be trusted.
Do your due diligence on the front end to save yourself from issues down the line.
Set Clear Expectations
It’s best to set clear expectations from the beginning to avoid conflict. Ensure you and your subcontractor align on pay expectations, schedule, and anything else pertinent to their job. Communicate your expectations to maintain a professional work environment.
Create a Subcontractor Agreement
Contracts protect you and your subcontractors. Don’t hire any subcontractors without an official agreement in place. Your agreement should cover essential topics such as scope of work, insurance, and payment. Check out our guide on subcontractor agreements for more information.
Keep Jobs and Crews Organized with Roofing Software
You’ll need to invest in the right tools to manage your growing team successfully. A roofing CRM can help you stay organized, monitor job progress, and ensure efficient communication between you and your crew.
See how JobNimbus can unlock your business’s potential with a free 14-day trial.
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