Employees vs Subcontractors: Research Carefully!
Ask About Employees or Subcontractors
When discussing your roofing project with a contractor, it’s essential to ask whether they use their own employees for the installation work or if they rely on subcontractors. This distinction can significantly impact the quality, accountability, and liability of your project.
For example, Cascade Roofing has been in business since 1959 serving the Portland, Tigard, Beaverton and Tualatin areas and stands out because they use only their own hourly paid employees for all roofing projects. This approach ensures consistent quality, greater accountability, and better communication throughout the project.
If a contractor does use subcontractors, you must confirm that each carries the following insurance policies:
- General Liability Insurance
- Workers’ Compensation Insurance
- Vehicle Liability Insurance
- Roofing-Specific Insurance
Without these, you, as the homeowner, could be held liable for accidents or damages during the project.
Consider This Scenario
You hire a contractor and pay them upon completion of the project, only to discover a “lien” placed against your home due to a dispute with an installer, material supplier, hauling company, or another subcontractor. A lien can negatively affect your credit rating, prevent you from selling or refinancing your home until it’s resolved, or even force you to pay a portion of your bill a second time. This situation arises because state laws are designed to protect contractors and suppliers, not homeowners.
Why Choose Cascade Roofing?
Since Cascade Roofing uses their own employees for all its roof installations and does not rely on subcontractors, you can avoid these potential issues. Their long-standing reputation since 1959 demonstrates their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Additionally, their use of an in-house team simplifies communication and ensures the project runs smoothly from start to finish.
Protect Yourself Against Liens
For contractors who do use subcontractors:
- Request a Lien Waiver:
Before making the final payment, ask the contractor, subcontractors, and suppliers to sign a lien waiver. This ensures that all parties have been paid and prevents them from placing a lien on your property. - Verify Payments:
If subcontractors or suppliers are involved, confirm directly with them that payments have been made in full. - Consider Escrow Payments:
Use an escrow service to hold funds until the project is completed to your satisfaction and all parties have been paid.
Understand Your State’s Laws
Familiarize yourself with the mechanic’s lien laws in Oregon. Knowing your rights and responsibilities will help protect you from potential disputes.
If you live in the Portland Metro area, including Tigard, Tualatin, and Beaverton, Cascade Roofing can take your worries away when it comes to installing a new roof. Since 1959, they have been installing quality roof systems with all the proper insurance and well trained employees.