Weekend side jobs cost revenue and create liability. Here is how to address them fairly.
In this article
Side jobs cost more than you think
A technician offers a customer to "do it cheaper on the weekend." The company loses revenue, takes on liability if something goes wrong, and the customer relationship shifts to the employee. Side jobs are one of the quietest leaks in service businesses.
Warning signs
- Customers who stop calling after a visit.
- Parts disappearing from truck stock.
- Techs with unusual weekend availability.
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Write a clear policy
State that work for company customers outside the company is not allowed, and explain why.
Explain the liability
Side work is usually not covered by your insurance or warranty. A mistake can still lead back to your company.
Address the cause
Techs often do side jobs because they need more income. Overtime options, spiffs and performance pay reduce the temptation.
Small jobs policy
If you turn down small jobs, techs may do them on the side. Consider a small-job price.
Track inventory
Regular truck stock checks reveal missing parts.
Ask customers
Follow-up calls sometimes reveal offers made by techs.
Consequences
Define what happens if the policy is broken, and apply it consistently.
Check employment law
Rules about outside work vary by state. Get advice before acting.
Where to start
Add the policy to your handbook and discuss it openly at the next team meeting.
Common mistakes
Ignoring the signs, making accusations without evidence, and setting policies without addressing low pay. A respectful conversation backed by clear rules works better than suspicion.
An example
At the team meeting, the owner explains: side jobs for our customers aren't covered by our insurance, so if something goes wrong, the customer and the tech are exposed. We are adding a small-job price and more overtime so nobody needs to work on the side.
Price every call so it pays.
We help service businesses set clear policies, book better jobs and turn more calls into profitable work.
Frequently asked questions
Why are side jobs a risk for my company?
Side work is usually not covered by your insurance or warranty, but problems can still lead back to your company, and you lose revenue and customer relationships.