Most of the government roofs we pursue for clients start around $350,000. Below that, the math on a full bid effort does not always work. But every so often we recommend a client go after a smaller job on purpose.
Look at the portfolio, not just the roof
A school district, housing authority or county rarely owns one building. It may own thirty, and many of those roofs are on a capital plan to be replaced over the next several years. The first roof is how you get in the door with the people who manage all of them.
When the owner has 29 other buildings that need new roofs, a well-run first job is worth far more than its contract value.
Past performance with that agency counts
Many government evaluations weigh past performance, and the strongest past performance is work done for the same agency. A facilities director who watched your crew finish on time, keep a clean site and document every step becomes your best reference on the next solicitation.
How we decide
We do not chase small jobs for their own sake. Before recommending one, we look at a few things:
- How many buildings the agency owns, and whether it has a published capital improvement plan.
- Whether the award is based on best value or simply the lowest bid. If it is lowest bid regardless of qualifications, we usually walk away.
- Whether the job fits your crew and schedule without hurting your other work.
If the answers line up, a smaller roof can be the smartest bid on the board.