Compliance with Codes: A licensed subcontractor must follow local building codes, safety regulations, and industry standards. This ensures the work is completed correctly and up to code, which can help avoid future issues with inspections or legal compliance.
Permit Handling: Licensed subcontractors are familiar with the permit process and will usually pull the necessary permits for your project. This minimizes the risk of fines or having to redo the work due to code violations.
Higher Quality Work
Proven Skillset: Licensed subcontractors must meet specific education, training, and experience requirements. They typically have a higher level of expertise, which can result in better workmanship and more reliable results.
Quality Assurance: The license typically signifies that the subcontractor is committed to maintaining a high standard of work. This can reduce the likelihood of costly mistakes or subpar results.
Prep is Key: Prep work is crucial when beginning any flooring job, and ensuring your subfloor is up to regulation is very important when trying to avoid cupping, crowing, etc. The surface needs to be leveled, smooth, and clean. When the subfloor is not leveled, the pressure between the boards will likely cause separation, cupping, crowning, and other costly issues.
Correct Tools, Correct Install: Something as small as using the wrong hammer or chisel can damage the product’s tongue-in-groove. A licensed professional will be sure to have the right tools to make whichever cut and install whichever material is needed for the job.
Knowing Adhesive: There are a few different glue options when tackling your hardwood flooring installation! Consider a wood-to-wood glue if you have a raised foundation, a plywood subfloor, or something with a moisture barrier if you apply it directly to concrete. Many factors come into play when deciding which glue you use for your installation. With the countless options to choose from, it is crucial to hire someone licensed, bonded, and insured, ensuring they understand which glue is best suited for your project.
Licensed contractors are responsible for the floors they complete: Hiring a licensed contractor ensures that you get what you paid for. If a contractor doesn’t finish the work, there are many avenues to pursue. Unfortunately, you lose that ability when you hire someone who is not licensed.
Insurance and Bonding
Insurance Protection: Licensed subcontractors often carry liability insurance, which protects you and the subcontractor in case of accidents or damages during the project. This adds a layer of security that is not guaranteed with unlicensed contractors.
Bonding: Licensed subcontractors are often bonded, meaning they have a form of financial protection that ensures they will complete the job according to the terms agreed upon. If they don’t, you may be able to file a claim against the bond.
Legal Protection and Accountability
Accountability: If issues arise with a licensed subcontractor’s work, they are easier to hold accountable because they are regulated by the licensing authority. You have a legal avenue for recourse in case of faulty work, breaches of contract, or other disputes.
Consumer Protection Laws: Licensed subcontractors are subject to consumer protection laws and professional standards, meaning you’re less likely to experience fraud, negligence, or substandard practices.
Warranties and Guarantees
Work Warranty: Many licensed subcontractors provide warranties for their work, offering you protection in case issues emerge after the job is completed. This warranty could cover both labor and materials.
Manufacturer Warranties: Some manufacturers may only honor warranties if a licensed contractor performs the installation. Hiring an unlicensed installer may void your warranty.
Easier Project Coordination
Professional Reputation: Licensed subcontractors are often part of a network of professionals and may have experience working with general contractors, which can make the coordination of your project smoother and more efficient.
Structured Work Process: With a licensed subcontractor, you’re likely to have a more explicit contract, timeline, and expectations set, which helps prevent project delays or misunderstandings.
Better Risk Management
Reduced Risk of Legal Issues: Hiring a licensed subcontractor minimizes the likelihood of legal issues, such as disputes over quality, permits, or safety violations.
Safety Compliance: Licensed subcontractors are more likely to follow safety protocols and use the proper equipment, which reduces the likelihood of on-site accidents.
Injury from Tools or Equipment: Cutting, nailing, or laying flooring involves using sharp tools, power saws, and nail guns that pose an injury risk if not used correctly. If safety precautions aren’t followed, injuries like cuts, bruises, or worse can occur.
Reputation and Trustworthiness
Established Credibility: A licensed subcontractor has passed tests and checks to earn their license, which can enhance their credibility. This is particularly important if hiring someone for a complex job or a high-value project.
References and Reviews: Licensed contractors are often well-established within the industry and can provide reliable references, reviews, and case studies to showcase their previous work.
Compare to Unlicensed Subcontractors
While hiring an unlicensed subcontractor can sometimes seem appealing due to lower costs, the risks significantly outweigh the benefits.
Quality and Compliance: Unlicensed subcontractors may not adhere to local building codes, leading to potential problems when inspections occur or the work doesn’t meet quality standards. Their lack of experience or qualifications may result in poor craftsmanship.
Insurance and Legal Protections: Unlicensed subcontractors often don’t carry insurance or bonding, meaning you could be financially liable if an accident occurs or the work is faulty.
Accountability and Warranty Issues: Unlicensed workers are harder to hold accountable since no authority directly oversees them. You may struggle to get any guarantees or warranties for their work.
In Summary:
Hiring a licensed subcontractor offers several advantages:
1. Assurance of quality, experience, and compliance with building codes.
2. Legal protections and accountability in case of issues.
3. Insurance, bonding, and warranties for additional peace of mind.
4. Higher likelihood of completing the project on time and within budget.
5. Long-term problems with incorrectly installed floors will continue until the floor is fixed.
6. Higher home value due to higher-quality contracting work.
7. Ultimately, while hiring an unlicensed subcontractor may be cheaper upfront, the risks involved—such as substandard work, legal issues, and lack of accountability—often make it less desirable in the long run, especially for larger or more complex projects. A licensed subcontractor provides more security, professionalism, and quality control, making it a better option in most cases.
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