At some point you can’t run every job, answer every call and monitor every dry-out yourself. That’s a good problem, but your first hire can make or break your reputation. Here’s how to do it right.

Signs it’s time

• You’re turning down jobs or making customers wait
• Daily monitoring visits are eating your whole day
• You have no time to meet referral partners, the thing that actually grows the business

Subcontractor first, employee later

Many owners start with subcontracted labor because you only pay when there’s a job. As work becomes steady, an employee gives you more control over quality and scheduling. The rules for who counts as a contractor versus an employee are set by the IRS and your state, so get this right with an accountant before you start paying anyone.

What to look for

• Trustworthy above all. They’ll be alone in customers’ homes.
• Reliable. Water jobs don’t wait. Showing up matters more than experience.
• Good with people. Homeowners are stressed. Your tech is your company to them.
• Handy. Construction, plumbing, cleaning or maintenance backgrounds transfer well.
• Willing to learn and document. A tech who skips readings costs you money.

Set up before day one

• Insurance: workers’ compensation is required in most states once you have employees. Check yours.
• Checklists: arrival, inspection, setup, daily monitoring and closeout.
• Photo and reading standards: exactly what to capture, every visit.
• Safety rules: protective gear, electrical checks before cutting, contaminated water.

Train them on your system

Have them shadow you on several jobs, then run jobs while you check their work. Get them IICRC WRT certified; adjusters and property managers notice. Your systems are what let the business run without you on every job.

The 6-Figure Launchpad covers building systems that let your business grow beyond you. Also see 7 mistakes that cost new companies money.

General information, not legal, tax or employment advice. Rules vary by state.