Let's tell it like it is. Nothing works on a building site without bricklayers. They are certainly one of the most important trades when it comes to construction. Their specialised skills and experience contribute significantly to the success of construction projects.
As subcontractors, bricklayers bring specialised expertise and craftsmanship to successfully complete construction projects.
What are the orders that bricklayers receive?
Bricklayers as subcontractors are often hired for specific projects. These projects can range from small renovations to large new builds. Project-based contracts offer flexibility and allow bricklayers to work on different projects with different requirements.
Some bricklayers work under framework agreements with construction companies or general contractors. These contracts cover several projects over a certain period of time and offer a continuous order situation. This can be beneficial for both bricklayers and clients as it allows for long-term planning and partnership.
Bricklayers can also work on the basis of hourly rates or unit prices. With hourly rate contracts, the working time is remunerated, which can be advantageous for unpredictable work. Unit price contracts, on the other hand, provide a clear cost structure for specific tasks or quantities of materials and labour.
What are the tasks of a bricklayer?
Bricklayers are often responsible for constructing the foundations of a building. This task is crucial as the foundation carries the entire load of the building. The work involves pouring concrete foundations, laying foundation blocks and ensuring that the foundation is stable and level.
An essential part of bricklaying work is the erection of walls and partition walls. This includes both load-bearing walls, which contribute to the stability of the building, and load-bearing walls, which are used to divide up rooms. Bricklayers use various materials such as bricks, concrete blocks and natural stone to build these structures.
Facing brickwork is another specialised task that bricklayers undertake. This work involves cladding building facades with decorative bricks or stones to provide aesthetic accents while protecting the structure. This requires precise work and an eye for detail to ensure an even and attractive appearance.
What are the challenges of working as a bricklayer subcontractor?
The legal framework and contractual agreements must be clearly defined and adhered to. Ambiguities or misunderstandings can lead to legal disputes that can have a significant impact on the project. Clear contract drafting and compliance with all legal regulations are therefore crucial.
One of the biggest challenges when working with bricklayers is effective communication and coordination. As bricklayers often work in parallel with other trades, it is important that everyone involved is well informed and coordinated.
Construction projects are often characterised by strict schedules and budgets. Delays or cost overruns can have a significant impact on the entire project. Bricklayers must therefore work reliably and efficiently in order to fulfil these requirements. Good schedule and cost management is therefore essential.
More on the legal basis for using subcontractors: Essential clauses in the subcontractor contract and Liability for foreign subcontractors.
Why Global Business Recruiting is your partner
Global Business Recruiting specialises in recruitment in the construction industry. We place tradesmen from all trades. As we know that bricklayers in particular are in demand in Germany, we place personnel from Eastern Europe.
Unlike many others, our staff speak German. As we know that this is a point that often leads to problems, it is extremely important to us.
All documents and licences are also available. Our workers from Poland and Eastern Europe speak German and can therefore get started quickly and easily.
Frequently asked questions about bricklayers as subcontractors
A qualified bricklayer should have a recognised vocational qualification as a bricklayer or concrete and reinforced concrete worker. Additional qualifications in facing brickwork, drywall construction or thermal insulation are an advantage. In the case of foreign skilled workers, it must be checked whether the vocational qualification is recognised in Germany or requires an equivalence assessment.
The German minimum wage rates apply to posted Polish bricklayers, in particular the collective wage agreement for the construction industry (BRTV Bau). All employees require a A1 certificate, registration with customs (via the customs registration portal) and sufficient knowledge of German for the safety instruction on the construction site.
Possible options are hourly rate contracts (usually €35-60/hour depending on the region and qualifications), unit price contracts (e.g. per square metre of brickwork) or flat-rate contracts for clearly defined trades. Global Business Recruiting can advise you on standard market conditions for Eastern European bricklaying teams.
Qualified bricklaying teams from Poland and Eastern Europe are usually available within a week via Global Business Recruiting. All documents - A1 certificates, business registration, proof of insurance, proof of qualifications - are checked and provided in advance.
In relation to the client, the general contractor is liable for defects, even if they were caused by a subcontractor. For its part, the general contractor can take recourse against the subcontractor. It is therefore essential that the subcontractor has a clear defect notification policy and sufficient liability insurance.
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