When a homeowner hires a remodeling company, roofer, or home builder, they’re trusting you with their property and their family’s safety. Your crews may work inside homes for days or weeks, sometimes while children and elderly family members are present.
That level of trust calls for careful screening.
Why background searches matter
Homeowners expect that the workers in their home are trustworthy. A single incident of theft, property damage, or misconduct can lead to lawsuits, lost business, and negative reviews.
Negligent hiring claims can arise when an employer fails to take reasonable steps to screen workers who are placed in positions of trust.
What to screen for
A residential construction screening package may include:
- Criminal background searches at the county, statewide, and federal levels
- Sex offender registry searches
- Identity verification and Social Security number trace
- Drug testing for safety and reliability
- Motor vehicle reports for employees who drive company vehicles
Use a fair, job-related approach
Focus on offenses that relate to the job, such as theft, burglary, or violence for workers entering homes. Consider how recent the offense was and the circumstances. Follow the Fair Credit Reporting Act and any fair chance hiring laws in your area.
Market your screening
Many homeowners feel reassured knowing that workers have been screened. Consider mentioning your screening standards in proposals, on your website, and in conversations with customers.
Subcontractors, too
If you use subcontractors for residential work, require them to screen workers who will enter customers’ homes.
Elite Services supports contractors
Elite Services Workplace Screening provides background searches, drug testing, and motor vehicle reports for construction companies nationwide. We make it easy to screen crews so you can build trust with every homeowner.
Ready to protect your workplace? Elite Services Workplace Screening provides nationwide drug testing, DOT compliance, background searches, MVRs, and E-Verify. Call 888-738-9297 or contact us online to get started.
This article is for general information only and is not legal advice. Laws and regulations change; consult qualified counsel about your specific situation.