Holding the line on quality

By JobTread. 

Your project is only as strong as the people building it. 

When deadlines loom and job sites buzz with activity, quality can quietly slip through the cracks. It’s not always a matter of skill; often, it’s a lack of clear expectations, accountability and oversight. Subcontractors aren’t just hired hands; they’re extensions of your reputation. If one falters, the whole project takes a hit. That’s where JobTread comes in. So, how do you make sure every subcontractor on your roster delivers the caliber of work your clients expect? It starts with a plan, one built on rigorous vetting, unshakable standards and the right systems to enforce them. 

Step 1: Vetting subcontractors effectively 

The first step to ensuring quality starts before subcontractors even step onto the job site. Vetting subcontractors is essential for filtering out those who may not meet your standards. Here’s how to do it right: 

• Request work samples and references 
  Verifying that subcontractors have relevant licenses and certifications guarantees compliance with legal and safety standards. For example, look for licenses in areas such as electrical work, plumbing or HVAC installation, depending on your project needs. 
• Check for certifications and licenses 
  Verifying that subcontractors have relevant licenses and certifications guarantees compliance with legal and safety standards. For example, look for licenses in areas such as electrical work, plumbing or HVAC installation, depending on your project needs. 
• Conduct in-depth interviews 
  During interviews, discuss job expectations, timelines and project specifications. Ask about their problem-solving methods and how they handle project changes. This can provide insight into their adaptability and professionalism, ensuring they’re prepared for on-site challenges. 

Step 2: Set clear standards and expectations 

Setting explicit quality standards with subcontractors is essential to avoid misunderstandings. With expectations outlined upfront, subcontractors understand the level of workmanship required from day one. 

• Develop detailed contracts 
  Your contract should include a scope of work, quality standards, timeline and benchmarks for performance. Clear contracts act as a binding reference to keep subcontractors accountable to your standards throughout the project. 
• Define quality benchmarks and KPIs 
  Establish specific Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to monitor quality. For example, set benchmarks for milestones like project cleanliness, defect rate or completion of inspection points. These metrics keep everyone aligned on the project’s quality goals. 

Step 3: Monitor quality throughout the project 

Once your subcontractors are on the job, keeping track of their work is crucial to maintain high standards. By actively monitoring quality, you can catch potential issues before they impact the project. 

• Implement regular inspections and check-ins 
  Schedule regular inspections at critical phases of the project to ensure that work aligns with your quality standards. You can also conduct spot checks to maintain a consistent level of quality across the board. 
• Utilize photo documentation 
  Have subcontractors submit progress photos at various stages of their work. This documentation can be used to verify quality and identify any areas that may need improvement before moving to the next stage. 
• Encourage open communication 
  A transparent communication line helps you stay informed about any issues that arise. Encourage subcontractors to raise concerns or ask questions about quality standards, so problems are addressed early on. 

Step 4: Enforce standards with accountability measures 

Ensuring quality also involves accountability. A system of checks and consequences helps motivate subcontractors to adhere to your expectations. 

• Incentivize high performance 
  Consider offering bonuses for subcontractors who meet or exceed quality standards within set timelines. Positive reinforcement not only boosts morale but also encourages them to maintain quality on every job. 
• Implement a penalty system for subpar work 
  Outline potential penalties in your contracts for work that doesn’t meet standards. These can range from withheld payments for minor issues to contract termination for consistent poor-quality work. Knowing that consequences are in place can motivate subcontractors to meet expectations. 

Manage subcontractors effectively with a streamlined, transparent solution 

Effective subcontractor management requires attention to detail and consistent oversight, but technology can make this process easier. JobTread’s subcontractor management software offers the tools you need to track quality, enforce standards and communicate with subcontractors seamlessly. With features like project tracking, document sharing and budget control, JobTread keeps your projects running smoothly and to the highest quality standards. 

Original article and photo source: JobTread