Combining services?

[Chris]

I was wondering if any of you plumbers have or thought of combining with another trade say electrical or something to corner the market better? In my business as a utility guy I am in the process of going in with a grader to be able to cover more on a project. I know of a few companies in my area that do plumbing and utilities which helps them land some jobs because it is the same crew doing all the work which eliminates the blame game and other issues.

[majakdragon]

Would depend on how much business you do. The other trade would either need to be on call, or working and this is where the problem comes in. The more people you get into business with, the more problems can arise.

[Chris]

I here you on the problem part. For me it is all new construction and mostly comercial work so to cover a couple things makes us look better. I think, but I get asked all the time if I can cover the grading or concrete.

[Reedwalker]

As a note.

It's better to take on a highly paid employee or sub contractor than a partner.

[Luckrider]

Another thing to think about is how large your operation already is, and how large you want to make it. A very successful custom home builder in my area subcontracts everything, while my dad and I did everything ourselves when we were doing construction. We found it nice to do all of the plumbing, building, and electrical work ourselves because there wasn't dedicated people getting in each others way, but it did make it a hassle time wise being such a small operation.