Electrical Subcontractor Crew for Builders and Remodelers

General contractors, home builders, remodelers, property managers and small business owners.

Fixed bids per project or per phase, or time-and-materials on smaller jobs. Steady work from a few builders can keep the crew busy.

• Licensed electrician with plan-reading and estimating experience
• Supervising and training helpers or apprentices
• Scheduling work around other trades

• Contractor licensing and any qualifying master electrician rules, which vary by state, county and city
• Workers' compensation, payroll taxes and correct worker classification once you have helpers
• Apprentice supervision and ratio rules: check with your state licensing board
• Slow-paying contractors, which can strain cash flow, so check payment terms and consider lien rights
• Permit, inspection and code compliance on every job, since failed inspections cost time and money

Startup costs are typically around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on vehicles, tools, insurance and how many helpers you start with. These are estimates, so build your own budget before taking on crew payroll.

Monthly revenue is typically around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on crew size, the number of jobs you land and which contractors you work for. These are estimates, and revenue is not the same as profit.

Check contractor licensing and any qualifying master electrician rules, which vary by state, county and city. Also check workers' compensation, payroll taxes and worker classification, apprentice supervision and ratio rules with your state licensing board, and permit and inspection requirements.