Thinking about becoming a subcontractor carpenter? Here’s what you need to know

You're a qualified carpenter. You’ve got the tools, the skills, and the work ethic. You’re thinking about leaving full-time employment and going out on your own as a subcontractor. Freedom, flexibility, and better money — it all sounds great.

But becoming a subcontractor in the building industry isn’t always as easy as it seems. Let’s break down the challenges most carpenters face going solo — and how new platforms like Pinch are making subcontracting smarter, safer, and far less stressful.

The Admin Nightmare

Invoicing, chasing payments, managing taxes, dealing with super, sorting out insurances, logging work hours — running your own subcontracting business means wearing a lot of hats that have nothing to do with swinging a hammer.

The Pinch way:
We handle all the admin. You focus on the work. We invoice the company, manage payments, handle PAYG, super, and insurances — so you get paid on time, every time. No chasing late payments or wasting weekends on paperwork.

Finding Consistent Work is Tough

When you’re independent, you’re responsible for finding your own jobs. You might be flat out for 3 months, then suddenly have gaps in your schedule. The feast-or-famine cycle can be stressful — especially if you’ve got bills to pay.

The Pinch way:
With Pinch, verified companies post jobs daily. You control your availability, get notified of relevant jobs nearby, and apply directly in the app. We help fill your calendar with a steady pipeline of work — without endless phone calls or waiting on mates.

Pricing Yourself Is Confusing

Setting your rates can be one of the hardest parts of subcontracting. Charge too much, and you price yourself out. Charge too little, and you’re selling yourself short.

The Pinch way:
You set your hourly rate up front. We provide real-time market data and peer-reviewed benchmarks so you can price yourself competitively. Better still, there’s full transparency — companies see your rate clearly and know exactly what they’re paying for.

Compliance & Insurance Headaches

As a subcontractor, you're responsible for having the right tickets, insurances, and compliance in place. Get it wrong, and you could lose work — or worse, risk fines or liability.

The Pinch way:
We verify your tickets upfront and ensure you meet compliance standards. Our platform covers you with platform-wide insurances (like Public Liability and Workers Comp) while you’re on site. Peace of mind built in.

Being On Your Own Can Feel… On Your Own

When you're self-employed, you're often completely on your own. No HR department, no one chasing up payments for you, no backup if something goes wrong.

The Pinch way:
You’re independent, but not alone. Our team is always available to support you, help resolve issues, and keep things running smoothly. We’re here to back you up, not boss you around.

Going subcontractor as a carpenter can be one of the best moves you’ll ever make — but it comes with risks and headaches. Platforms like Pinch give you the freedom to subcontract on your own terms, while removing the admin, compliance and payment nightmares that often come with it.

You bring the tools. We’ll handle the rest.

Ready to subcontract without the stress? Join Pinch today and take control of your schedule, rates, and career — minus the paperwork.