Subcontract water damage drying technician

Larger restoration companies, property management firms and maintenance contractors that hire overflow help during busy periods.

Hourly or per-job rates for setup, monitoring visits and pickup, sometimes with a small equipment rental fee if you supply your own.

• Reliability and willingness to take calls at short notice
• Learning moisture meters and drying equipment
• Careful documentation with photos and logs
• Basic building knowledge

• Check with your state licensing board on whether you may work without a contractor license when subcontracting
• Many firms require proof of insurance and may ask to be named as additional insured
• Check worker classification rules so you are properly treated as an independent contractor
• Work can be irregular, with busy weeks after storms and quiet periods in between
• Wet or moldy buildings need protective gear, so check safety guidance before entering

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on the moisture meters and equipment you buy and the insurance you carry. This is a leaner start than running a full emergency service.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $2,000 to $9,000, depending on how often restoration firms call you. Plan for at least about 15 hours a week, and work can be irregular, with busy weeks after storms.

Check with your state licensing board on whether you may work without a contractor license when subcontracting. Also check worker classification rules for independent contractors, and note that many firms require proof of insurance and additional insured status.