Subcontracting is common in the roofing industry, allowing contractors to expand their business without hiring full-time employees. Many roofing companies use subcontractors to handle labor-intensive jobs, complete projects faster, or manage seasonal workloads.
However, subcontracting has its challenges, including quality control and legal risks. In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of subcontracting in the roofing industry so you can decide whether it’s the right approach for your business.
Pros of Subcontracting in Roofing
1. Increased Flexibility
Hiring subcontractors allows you to scale up or down based on demand. You can take on larger projects without committing to full-time employees.
No long-term employment commitments
Ideal for seasonal roofing projects
Ability to take on multiple jobs at once
2. Lower Labor Costs
Subcontracting can be more cost-effective than hiring in-house employees because:
You don’t have to provide benefits, insurance, or workers' compensation.
You only pay for completed work, reducing payroll overhead.
No need to invest in training, as subcontractors are already skilled.
Tip: Negotiate per-project pricing to maintain predictable costs.
3. Faster Project Completion
With more hands on deck, subcontractors help complete jobs quicker, allowing your business to take on more projects.
More jobs = More revenue
Ideal for meeting tight deadlines
Faster turnaround improves customer satisfaction
4. Reduced Equipment & Training Costs
Subcontractors often bring their own tools and equipment, saving you money on:
Roofing materials & safety gear
Training costs for new hires
Ongoing maintenance of equipment
Tip: Work with experienced subcontractors with industry-standard tools to maintain quality work.
5. Specialization & Expertise
Some roofing projects require specialized skills, such as:
Metal roofing installation
Solar panel roofing
Green roofing & eco-friendly solutions
Subcontracting experts in these fields help you offer more services without hiring full-time specialists.
Cons of Subcontracting in Roofing
1. Quality Control Issues
Since subcontractors work independently, maintaining consistent quality can be a challenge.
Work may not meet your company’s standards.
Subcontractors might cut corners to finish faster.
If quality is poor, your company’s reputation suffers.
Solution: Use detailed contracts and quality control checklists to ensure high standards.
2. Liability & Legal Risks
You could be held responsible if a subcontractor is uninsured and injured on the job.
Some states require subcontractors to have insurance.
A lack of contracts can lead to payment disputes.
Improper hiring practices can cause legal trouble.
Solution: Always verify insurance, licensing, and legal agreements before hiring subcontractors.
3. Inconsistent Availability
Subcontractors work for multiple companies, so they may not always be available when you need them.
May delay projects if overbooked.
Hard to build a consistent team.
Reliability varies from job to job.
Solution: Work with trusted subcontractors and create long-term agreements to secure their availability.
4. Less Control Over the Workforce
Unlike full-time employees, subcontractors:
Have their own work methods
May not follow your company policies
Can refuse last-minute project changes
Solution: Provide clear expectations & communication in the contract.
5. Risk of Competitors Poaching Your Clients
Some subcontractors may try to work directly with your clients, cutting you out of future business.
They might offer lower rates to homeowners.
Clients may feel more comfortable hiring them directly.
It weakens your customer relationships.
Solution: Include a non-compete clause in your contracts to prevent subcontractors from working with your clients directly.
Best Practices for Working with Roofing Subcontractors
Vet Your Subcontractors – Check their licenses, insurance, and past work.
Use Clear Contracts – Define payment terms, deadlines, and quality expectations.
Schedule Regular Inspections – Ensure the work meets your company’s standards.
Establish a Reliable Network – Build long-term relationships with trusted subcontractors.
Maintain a Balance – Use a mix of subcontractors and in-house employees for flexibility and control.
In conclusion, subcontracting can increase flexibility, reduce costs, and speed up projects, but it comes with risks like quality control and legal issues. The key is to carefully vet subcontractors, use solid contracts, and maintain oversight.