Foundation and slab subcontractor for builders
Work as a concrete subcontractor forming and pouring footings, foundations and slabs for builders and renovators.
- C$15k-70k
- Full-time
- Out and about
Estimates for a small start in Canada, not guarantees.
What it is
Forming and pouring footings, foundation walls, basement floors and garage slabs as a subcontractor on new builds, additions and renovations.
Your first three steps
- Work on a foundation crew to build skills, then contact local builders about overflow or small jobs
- Price out forms, tools, a work truck and insurance, and set up a simple quoting template
- Introduce yourself to builders and general contractors with references and photos of past work
Who pays
Home builders, general contractors, renovators and developers of small projects.
How it makes money
Quoted price per job or per linear foot or square foot of foundation, covering labour, forms, rebar and materials, often paid in stages.
Skills that help
- Reading building plans
- Forming, rebar and pouring experience
- Managing a small crew
- Quoting and cash flow management
Watch out for
- Commercial general liability insurance and WCB or WSIB coverage, which builders often require before hiring you (check your province)
- Slow payment or holdbacks, so check your province's lien and holdback rules and agree payment terms in writing
- Structural work may need to meet the building code and pass municipal inspections, so check what applies to your jobs
- Safety risks in trenches and excavations, so look into required training in your province
- Cold weather pouring limits and seasonal gaps in work
🔒 Full research report for Canada
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonQuestions people ask
How much does it cost to start a concrete foundation subcontracting business?
Startup costs are typically estimated at around $15,000 to $70,000, depending on equipment, forms and crew setup. Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on the number and size of builder contracts.
What insurance and rules should I check before subcontracting for builders?
Check commercial general liability insurance and WCB or WSIB coverage, which builders often require before hiring you. Also check that structural work meets the building code and municipal inspections, and look into required safety training for trenches and excavations in your province.
What should I watch out for with payment as a concrete subcontractor?
Slow payment and holdbacks are a risk, so check your province's lien and holdback rules and agree payment terms in writing. Cold weather pouring limits can also create seasonal gaps in work, so plan your cash flow.
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Photo: Nick_the_Photographer on Pixabay