If you are in the home improvement business, it is important to consider hiring a roofing subcontractor to help with a project. There are risks associated with this type of hire, but by taking the time to research and understand the subcontractor, you can help ensure that the project will go smoothly and successfully.
If done incorrectly, roofing projects can have serious consequences. Roofing differs from other construction work because errors can have more serious and expensive results. Working at heights puts workers at a greater risk of harm, and mistakes on the roof can lead to major damage to the property. This can lead to higher contractor insurance premiums and the possibility of legal action against the property owner and the contractor.
When hiring a roofing subcontractor, it is important to take steps to ensure that the job is done correctly and safely. Here are four tips to help you do just that:
Tip #1: Set a Subcontractor Agreement at the Onset
Ensuring the subcontractor has all the necessary insurance and licenses, what fees will be paid when the work is completed, and how disputes should be settled. Having a well-defined agreement in place helps protect the interests of all parties involved.
A working outline is a detailed plan of the tasks and activities needed to complete a project and guarantees no detail is overlooked. It includes:
- A breakdown of each step in the project.
- The resources needed.
- The timeline for each task.
- Any expected outcomes from work.
This contract is designed to outline the responsibilities of both the subcontractor and the main contractor clearly and concisely. It outlines the scope of the work, any deadlines or milestones, and the compensation the subcontractor will receive for their work. It also stipulates any liability the subcontractor will accept for their work and the procedures for resolving any possible disputes.
By putting this agreement in writing, both parties can rest assured that their rights and obligations are clear and that any issues that may arise can be addressed quickly and effectively.
Tip #2: Ensure They Are Insured
To ensure the subcontractor has the required contractor insurance coverage, you must ask for a certificate of insurance. This document will provide the policy’s expiration date, the insurance company, and the limits for each policy being carried out. Additionally, you may request the subcontractor’s declarations page to double-check for any potential exclusions.
Tip #3: Get Additional Insured
You should always ask the roofing subcontractor to add you as an extra person covered by their insurance policy. This should be included in the subcontractor contract, but if it still needs to be, make sure to make the request. This extra-covered person on the policy will make sure that the subcontractor’s insurance will cover any legal costs that may come up due to their mistakes while working for you.
Adding this endorsement to the contracts of all of your subcontractors, especially roofers, provides an additional safeguard to protect you from potential legal issues.
Summary
Finding a roofing subcontractor doesn’t have to be a headache. Creating the right safeguards upfront will help you stay safe, secure, and successful in the long run. From ensuring the contractor has the right insurance coverage to creating a clear contract that protects your interests, these steps can help you avoid costly and time-consuming legal troubles.
Talk to Pascal Burke Insurance Brokerage Inc.
We are an insurance company that specializes in providing insurance policies for contractors. We offer a wide range of policies covering general and specialized contractors. Our policies provide the protection needed so contractors can do their work without worrying about the risks they may face. Get fast quotes on contractor insurance in MN by visiting our website right now!