As a general contractor, hiring a subcontractor is not a task you should take lightly. Since a subcontractor and their work directly represents you and your business, it’s important to ensure you are hiring quality professionals. When it comes to hiring a masonry subcontractor, it’s essential to perform the necessary research and review to ensure the best quality work. Check out a few important tips we’ve compiled to help you find the right mason for your project.
1. Do Your Research Before Hiring
Beyond the basic Google search, it’s imperative to do thorough research on the subcontractors you’re considering. You need to know if they’re capable of doing what you need in a timely manner, within your budget, and with the quality.
You can expand your research by checking their website for their specialties, team size, photos, and past job videos.
Meet With Multiple Subcontractors
One general rule to keep in mind for hiring is to look into at least three different subcontractors before committing to one – using a subcontractor bidding site is an easy way to generate multiple leads. Ask each potential subcontractor for an itemized budget to help better gauge your anticipated costs.
Look for Reviews and References
Make sure to take the time to evaluate the subcontractor’s reviews and references. You can find reviews on their Google My Business page to see what former customers have said about them. They may also have reviews posted on their site as well. However, it’s always worth your time to look into outside sources.
Another resource you have at your disposal is the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You can verify the mason’s BBB page to make sure they’re a reputable and dependable option for your project.
2. Know How They Mitigate Risk
To ensure you’re hiring the right subcontractor you need to know how they operate and their practices for mitigating risk. It is essential for the hiring process, insurance, paperwork, contracts, and job.
It is reassuring knowing that the mason you are considering is adequately trained in safety techniques and protocols to avoid injuries that could derail the job.
3. Check Their Masonry Certifications
To guarantee that the subcontractor can do the job up to your standards, you can also check their Mason Contractors of America Association (MCAA) certification. An MCAA certification provides proof that a mason has the necessary skills to deliver the services you need.
On the same token, be sure to ask for their licenses and insurance to make sure they’re eligible to work on the job site.
4. Be Aware of a Masonry Subcontractor’s Specialties Compared to Your Needs
Every masonry subcontractor is different and will come with a distinct set of skills and specialties. Depending on your job, there are various skill sets you could request of your potential mason, such as brickwork, stone, or concrete. Be sure to hire a mason equipped with the expertise needed for the unique details in your project.
Doing your due diligence with finding the right subcontractor can be a strenuous process, but it will pay off in the long run. Luckily, there are resources available to help you.
PlanHub is a construction bidding software and online plan room that can help you connect to a network of general contractors and subcontractors. With PlanHub’s bid management software, you can quickly and easily evaluate and compare bids from multiple subcontractors, helping you ensure you’re hiring the subcontractor that’s right for the job. To learn more about PlanHub’s features and benefits, contact us today!
