Unionize the Restoration Industry
If the latest deal recently struck by the UPS workers union tells us anything, its that workers unions provide results to the most important functions of society. It's time for restoration to join that cause.
When COVID hit and society shut down, the essential workers did not. The majority of those who still went to work everyday didnt make over 100k a year. These are the people who were imperative to the survival of our entire country and they didnt crack six figures, some dont even come close.
Why? I personally have utilized the services of a lawyer a handful of times in my life, and I couldnt survive without a roof. So why does one make so much more than the other?
Sure you could say they get educated, but the mask that was covering higher educations true purpose is being quickly ripped off. It's hard to ignore the fact that it has served as a gatekeeping method that the wealthy use to ensure that they stay wealthy. Can't afford law school? Guess its time to go be a roofer.
It's about value. The UPS delivery drivers understood their value to us as a society. They understood that without them, packages dont get delivered and commerce comes to an absolute stop. Its time we did the same. It's time we recognize that without our industry doing the work that it does society as a whole can not function. Its time we value that fact and demand to be paid accordingly.
The restoration industry may not have unionized for several reasons:
- Fragmented and diverse industry: The restoration industry encompasses various sectors such as fire and water damage restoration, mold remediation, construction, and more. Each sector has its own unique challenges, work conditions, and employee demographics, making it difficult to unite under a single union.
- Lack of widespread employee awareness: Many workers in the restoration industry may not be aware of the benefits of unionizing, such as collective bargaining power, improved wages and benefits, and better working conditions. Without sufficient knowledge or understanding of the unionization process, employees may not actively pursue union representation.
- Employer resistance: Restoration companies may resist unionization efforts as it could lead to increased costs and potential loss of control over work processes. Employers may discourage unionization by offering competitive wages, benefits, and workplace policies to dissuade employees from seeking union representation.
- High turnover and seasonal work: The restoration industry often experiences high turnover rates due to the physical nature of the work, irregular job demands, and seasonal fluctuations. This dynamic nature makes it challenging to build a stable workforce that could sustain union efforts and maintain membership.
We play a vital role in rebuilding communities and restoring lives after disasters strike. However, despite the crucial work they do, the industry has yet to see widespread unionization. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of unionizing the restoration industry and how it can empower workers to negotiate from a stronger position of power, particularly when dealing with insurance carriers.
- Collective Bargaining Power:
One of the primary advantages of unionization is the ability to negotiate collectively with employers. By joining forces, restoration industry workers can pool their resources, expertise, and demands to bargain for better wages, benefits, and working conditions. This collective bargaining power ensures that employees have a voice in decisions that directly affect their livelihoods. - Improved Wages and Benefits:
Unionization often leads to better compensation packages for workers. Through negotiations, unions can advocate for fair and competitive wages, ensuring that restoration industry professionals are appropriately compensated for their skills and efforts. Additionally, unions can secure comprehensive benefits packages, including healthcare coverage, retirement plans, and paid time off, which contribute to workers' overall well-being. - Safer Working Conditions:
The restoration industry involves physically demanding tasks and potential exposure to hazardous materials. Unionization can help establish and enforce safety protocols, ensuring that workers are protected on the job. Unions can advocate for proper training, the use of appropriate protective equipment, and regular safety inspections. By prioritizing worker safety, unionized restoration companies can create a healthier and more secure work environment. - Job Security and Career Development:
In the restoration industry, job stability can fluctuate due to seasonal demands and economic factors. Unions can negotiate for job security provisions, such as fair layoff and recall procedures, to protect workers during slow periods. Additionally, unions can advocate for training and career development programs that help workers enhance their skills, improve their job prospects, and adapt to evolving industry demands. - Stronger Position in Negotiations with Insurance Carriers:
Insurance carriers play a significant role in the restoration industry, often dictating pricing, contracts, and work conditions. Through unionization, restoration industry workers can collectively negotiate with carriers from a position of strength. By presenting unified demands, workers can push for fairer contracts, more reasonable timelines, and appropriate compensation for their services. This increased leverage can help level the playing field and ensure that workers' rights and interests are protected.
Unionizing the restoration industry offers numerous benefits to workers, including collective bargaining power, improved wages and benefits, safer working conditions, job security, and stronger negotiation positions with insurance carriers. By coming together as a united body, restoration industry professionals can advocate for their rights, better their working conditions, and ensure fair compensation for their important work. Unionization has the potential to create a more equitable and sustainable industry, benefitting both workers and the communities they serve.