What is your advice for hiring sub-contractors?
We have found all of our sub contractors by word of mouth. I would advise checking out some of their previous projects and get references. Make sure they are licensed and fully insured.
Ask to contact a previous client, that is the best way to find out anything you may want to know regarding work quality, performance and satisfaction!
I think it is of the utmost importance to check at least three references for any contractor that you hire.
The most important thing about hiring sub-contractors is doing your homework to make sure the license and bonding is current. Too many people do not take the time to do the research and end up hiring a company that either has no license or has a really bad rating with the BBB.
Make sure they are licensed and have insurance. Also don’t give one sub too much of the project. If it’s someone you have not worked with before you don’t want to put all of your trust with them.
If you are the GC on the job, isn’t this your livelihood at stake? Isn’t your company’s name on the line? Warren Buffett was quoted saying, “It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it. If you think about that, you’ll do things differently.” So, hire a licensed sub. Research their company. Ask for references. You want to know that they have a reputation to hold and a name/image to maintain. If the sub has nothing to lose, then do not use that sub because you are putting yourself, and your company and the employees, at risk; it is tangible increase in your exposure or susceptibility to the probability of something arising with the sub. Also, make sure your attorney has reviewed your contract that you use with your subcontractors. Remember to always protect yourself and your business - you are living your dream, so protect it.
P.S.
There are a lot of great subcontractors in the marketplace with exceptional qualifications and agreeable personalities, so it is not all bad. Good luck!