Florida Contractor Concerns for 2025

Construction is expected to be on the rise in Florida this year. Construction companies are seeing more communication from prospective clients now that the election is over.

While this may seem like good news, of course there are concerns. A survey shows that 46% of Florida respondents cite material costs as a top concern. The issue is not supply chains, though, which caused problems in 2021 and 2022. It’s the possible effects of tariffs and trade wars. They fear the prices they pay for certain construction materials will skyrocket.

According to the survey, more than 70% of respondents say worker quality is a top concern. The main issues are an insufficient supply of workers and subcontractors as well as rising labor costs.

Contractors are worried they won’t have enough workers, primarily in the craft construction workforce — those who do the bulk of the construction work. They fear they won’t be able to keep pace with demands for all sector projects.

Contractors are urging President Donald Trump and Congress to pass the Stronger Workforce for America Act. This act will boost funding for construction training programs at the high school and college levels.

Here’s a look at some other concerns and issues that contractors regularly face.

Legal and Compliance Issues

Contractors must navigate various legal obligations to ensure their business runs smoothly and within the law. Contract disputes and unclear scope of work are common issues. Clients may misunderstand the scope of work, leading to disputes. Change orders and additional work can cause conflicts if not documented properly.

Workplace Safety Requirements

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) enforces workplace safety standards. Violations can result in hefty fines or project shutdowns.

Financial and Payment Concerns

Money management is one of the biggest struggles for contractors, impacting profitability and sustainability. Late payments by clients are a major concern. Some clients delay or refuse payment, especially in disputes. Legal battles to recover unpaid invoices can be costly.

Inconsistent income due to delayed payments or seasonal demand can create financial stress. Contractors must pay for materials, labor, and equipment before receiving full payment. Rising material costs, project delays, and change orders can reduce profit margins. Poor estimating can lead to financial losses.

Project Management Challenges

Ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget is a constant challenge. There can be delays due to weather, supply chain issues, or labor shortages. Supply chain disruptions lead to material shortages and price increases.

Managing Subcontractors and Ensuring Quality Work

Subcontractors may miss deadlines or deliver poor-quality work. Lack of accountability can lead to disputes or rework. Multiple projects and overlapping deadlines can create chaos, while scheduling conflicts can delay projects and frustrate clients. Prices of materials like lumber and steel fluctuate based on market conditions. Shortages can delay projects or increase costs unexpectedly.

Contact Us Today

Running a construction company is not easy. Contractors frequently have concerns about labor shortages, quality, and costs.

A Florida construction contract lawyer from Linkhorst Law Firm can address your concerns and answer your questions. We can help you draft a contract that ensures your interests are represented. To schedule a consultation, fill out the online form or call 561-626-8880.

Source:

wpbf.com/article/florida-construction-tariffs-trump-immigration/63374182