The term "self-performing" has evolved significantly over the years, leading to varied interpretations across the industry. Traditionally, it referred to contractors who managed every aspect of a project using their in-house teams, avoiding subcontractors entirely. Today, however, the definition is far less rigid. Some contractors use the term if even a portion of the work is performed by their employees, while others claim it based on having an on-site representative oversee subcontractors. This fluidity has made "self-performing" a subjective term, often requiring clarification to ensure all parties share the same understanding.
Unlike certifications in industries such as organic food or LEED-certified construction, there is no governing body to define or verify a contractor’s claim of being "self-performing." This lack of standardization puts the responsibility on you to determine what self-performance means for your organization and to ask the right questions during contractor evaluations. Whether it’s quality control, cost efficiency, or on-site consistency, understanding what matters most for your project will help you assess whether a contractor’s approach meets your expectations. For instance, contractors employing full-time, W-2 staff may deliver greater consistency and alignment but could also come with higher costs or geographic limitations.
Having a shared definition of "self-performing" with your contractor is critical to ensuring your project’s success. Misaligned expectations can lead to misunderstandings, inefficiencies, and unmet goals. By clearly defining what self-performance means for your organization and confirming that your contractor’s approach aligns with those needs, you establish a foundation for effective collaboration. Whether your priority is maintaining strict quality control or achieving flexibility for large-scale, time-sensitive projects, a shared understanding will ensure your unique requirements are met.
The definition of self-performing is straightforward: it means the contractor handles the entire process directly, without outsourcing or subcontracting any aspect of the work, especially in the field. This encompasses everything from the initial phone call and site assessments to creating the proposal, executing the work, and closing out the project with the customer. It’s a cradle-to-grave approach, ensuring consistency and accountability throughout. The key distinction between contractors lies in what they perform with their own employees versus what they outsource, which can often dilute quality and control.
When assessing contractors, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure their approach to self-performance aligns with your needs. Start by clarifying how much of the work will be handled by their employees versus subcontractors and whether they oversee all project stages or outsource specialized tasks like electrical or roofing. Additionally, inquire about their licenses, workforce consistency, and past project experience to evaluate their qualifications and reliability. Finally, review their safety record, financial stability, and communication practices to ensure they can meet your project’s requirements.
By addressing these factors, you’ll better understand their self-performance capabilities and ensure alignment with your expectations. Learn more about this topic by reading more on the topic in RFMA’s Facilitator Magazine.
Written by
Tom Dawson
Director of Operations & Sales
tom.dawson@roofingsource.com
