[Jason Ryan]

May have a contract which involves carpet cleaning but also other work which i would sub contract out. Though some of the sub contractors i have in mind have carpet cleaning as an 'add on' service.

My question is this- has anyone subbed work and had probs with the subbies trying to 'poach' the work 'you' were doing, or any probs in general with sub contracting.

Also would the sub contractors be classed as employees and so would i need the insurance to cover that?

Cheers

J

[Paul W Jones]

Jason, I had twenty years working in the building industry and I had nothing but trouble with sub contractors.  You can really look after them but they'll always think of themselves if there's a chance to make a few quid!  I've no idea if the cc industry is the same or not.  Your question about classing them as employees, well if they're doing a job for you then really it's like doing the job yourself as far as your client is concerned.  You should make sure though that they have adequate insurance in place.  I think the scenario in the event of a claim would be for your client to claim from your insurance and you would counter claim from your subbie.....I think!

[Hilton]

My question is this- has anyone subbed work and had probs with the subbies trying to 'poach' the work 'you' were doing, or any probs in general with sub contracting.

You may as well ask do bears do a poop in the woods,

We once hired a subbie for a largish job and he went straight in and under cut us with the corrupt building manager,
(this guy charged tradesmen to use the lift).

It did not go down well and we made our thoughts clear to him  in no uncertain terms, but hey its a gamble and it does not mean they are all like that, we have had some great subbies work for us as well.

On insurance your normal public liability should be good anough and do not employ any subbie who does not have up to date cover for themselves, take a copy and keep it on file.

[Jason Ryan]

Thanks both for your replys.

I suppose its like life in general and you get good and bad (subbies in this case).

Cheers

J

[Karen Waterworth]

If you are using a subcontractor check with your public liability insurance that you have the sub contracting option added. It is also best to get them to fill out a statement stating that they are insured and must supply proof, this will also cover you for risk assessment. Also given them in writing what jobs they are to do and how to carry out the work to your standards.
Sorry for the late reply but only just started reading the board again. 

[Jason Ryan]

cheers Karen

J