(Because Construction Is a Serious Business, But You Can Still Have Fun With It!)
Being a contractor is no walk in the park. You’re juggling projects, managing subcontractors, and keeping your clients happy—all while praying your general liability insurance holds up. To survive and thrive in the competitive world of construction, here are the 10 commandments contractors should live by:
1. Thou Shalt Read Every Contract (Even the Fine Print)
It’s tempting to skim and sign, but skipping the details is how lawsuits are born. Protect thyself and make sure every clause has been blessed by legal eyes. If something looks fishy, flag it faster than a safety inspector at an OSHA audit.
2. Thou Shalt Respect Thy Budget (And Thy Client’s Patience)
Going over budget is a fast track to angry phone calls and bad reviews. Be transparent about costs, and don’t underestimate—construction projects are already full of surprises without your “rounding down.”
3. Thou Shalt Not Overpromise and Underdeliver
“I’ll have this done in a week” is a phrase contractors often regret. Be realistic about timelines. Your clients will appreciate honesty more than excuses.
4. Thou Shalt Hire Subcontractors Wisely
Your subcontractors represent you, so vet them like you’re hiring a babysitter for your firstborn. Double-check their licenses, workers’ compensation insurance, and reliability before they set foot on your site.
5. Thou Shalt Always Have a Backup Plan (and Then a Backup for That Backup)
Nothing ever goes perfectly on a job site. Have contingencies for weather delays, material shortages, and the inevitable “uh-oh” moments.
6. Thou Shalt Invest in Quality Tools and Materials
A contractor is only as good as their tools. Don’t skimp on essentials just to save a buck. Cheap materials might win bids, but they’ll lose you long-term clients.
7. Thou Shalt Maintain a Safety-First Mentality
Hard hats, steel-toed boots, and proper signage aren’t just for show—they’re non-negotiable. Keep everyone safe so you don’t end up relying on your umbrella liability insurance more than you’d like.
8. Thou Shalt Keep Clients in the Loop
Even if things are going wrong, communicate! Clients can handle bad news better than they can handle being ghosted. Regular updates will turn stressed clients into loyal ones.
9. Thou Shalt Take Care of Thy Crew
Happy crews build better. Pay them fairly, feed them occasionally, and let them know their hard work doesn’t go unnoticed. A contractor is only as good as their team.
10. Thou Shalt Not Forget Insurance (For Thou Art Mortal)
Accidents happen, lawsuits arise, and machinery breaks. Proper coverage—like construction insurance—isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. Make sure you have everything from general liability insurance to workers’ compensation insurance squared away.
Why Choose BGES Group for Your Construction Insurance Needs?
At BGES Group, we specialize in helping contractors across the Tri-State area find tailored solutions for their insurance needs. Whether it’s workers’ compensation, general liability, or even umbrella liability insurance, we’ve got your back.
Our boutique-style service ensures you get personalized attention, competitive pricing, and expert guidance every step of the way. If you’re a contractor looking for construction insurance that works as hard as you do, give us a call today!
Contact Gary Wallach at BGES Group:
📞 914-806-5853
Secure your business and your peace of mind—because the only surprises on the job should be the ones that make your clients smile.