Using Permit Data to Uncover Contracting Business Opportunities

Most construction industry companies depend on new business to maintain or increase profits. Using permit data can take your lead generations in surprising directions. But you must use building permit information with intent.

Contractors, Subcontractors: Using Permit Data Works

Construction contractors and subcontractors fall into basic categories and those include everything from Tom Sawyer painting his aunt’s fence (obviously a non-union job) to working on power lines, sheet metal, highway grading, underwater rock removal… OSHA has a detailed list of major construction groups.

You have plenty of “good old” tools – referrals are a great example. Take that from yesterday’s word-of-mouth to online testimonials, and you have possibly the most powerful tool trending for developing new business. Using permit data generates building permit information that generates leads. You can get weekly or monthly updates.

Frequency is important but what’s most important about using permit data is knowing how to use it. Basic information starts with the type of project; solar, swimming pool, renovation, new-build, razing, etc. Most recently, security installations are a trending type of construction project; most involve electricians but some require more detailed contractors.

Building permit information also includes:

• Contact information for contractors, owners/other important project partners
• Project location, address
• Project start date, permit number
• Project value

It Works if You Work It

Construction Monitor uses a powerful search engine to filter information. –Remodeling

“Building your own home” once meant a homeowner would apply for a building permit before hiring a builder. Construction companies that were experienced using permit data would quickly introduce themselves to the project owners.

Today, contractors use building permit information to ease-out the competition by tracking top companies’ bids. They analyze historical data. They align themselves with smaller companies looking for mentorship and seek alliances with other contractors.

Marketing strategies can be developed using permit data alone. It’s not rocket science, but it’s a job. If you’re too busy to put the information to work, it would better serve your company to dedicate one person to the task. Our Support team can help you get started.

Contact, email, or call Construction Monitor today, 800-925-6085 (international callers: 435-586-1205).