"Avoiding Shocks When Hiring a Low-Voltage Electrician."
While it may require an additional investment upfront, thoroughly vetting subcontractors can save a contractor a lot of headaches later, including costly legal issues and reputational damage which can be hard to overcome.
As workers become increasingly scarce and deadlines more urgent, company leaders and human resource departments want to move quickly, but caution should be exercised, says Weinberg Wheeler Hudgins Gunn & Dial Partner George Green.
Green advises contractors on potential construction site liability issues including those associated with hiring subcontractors and cautions clients to look for workers and companies that are reputable, dependable and experienced. These traits, he says, can provide some assurances when delegating tasks with little oversight.
In a recent article in Construction Executive, Green says these criteria offer more than just assurances. They can also be a great tool for self-governance as most businesses who value customer relationships will want to stand by their work, especially when they depend on repeat business and word-of-mouth referrals.
That aside, Green says licensing requirements are important and should not be overlooked. While each state is different, a license is required for low-voltage and other specialized contractors in most states.
Performing a search of regulatory websites and social media can also reveal reviews and aid in decision-making. If you can secure a performance review from a previous job or employer, even better, he says.
Read Green’s article in Construction Executive for more tips on avoiding liability on construction sites.