How subs use permits differently from GCs
For a general contractor, a permit filing can be a direct lead. For a specialty trade, the question is different: who controls the package, and when should you get in front of them? A filing may not tell you your trade package is open, but it shows which projects are forming and who may control the work.
Who controls the package
Depending on the project, your scope may be controlled by a named GC, the owner, the architect, a construction manager, a developer, or a permittee on a related sub-permit. Reading those signals tells you whether to approach the GC, or to reach the owner or architect carefully while the team is still forming.
What signals matter by trade
| Trade | Watch for |
|---|---|
| Electrical | Tenant improvements, service upgrades, EV charging, commercial buildouts, LL97 work. |
| Mechanical / HVAC | Renovations, equipment replacement, energy retrofits, restaurant and lab buildouts. |
| Plumbing | Restaurant work, multifamily renovations, new bathrooms and kitchens, larger interiors. |
| Roofing / envelope | Reroofing, facade work, waterproofing, HVHZ projects, exterior alterations. |
| Concrete / structural | Seismic and soft-story retrofits, foundations, new build, structural alterations. |
| Fire protection | Sprinkler modifications and additions on alterations and new build. |
When to act
Some trades watch immediately after filing; some wait for a GC signal; some track related sub-permits. The goal is an early radar, not a cold call the day a permit appears. For the full approach, read how specialty trades find projects before bid packages are set.
Frequently asked
What are subcontractor leads?
Subcontractor leads are projects identified from permit filings where a specialty trade's scope is likely to be needed, ideally before the trade package is awarded.
How do subs know who to contact?
Read who controls the package: a named GC, the owner, architect, construction manager, or permittee. That determines whether to approach the GC or reach the owner or architect early.
Which trades does this work for?
Electrical, mechanical and HVAC, plumbing, roofing and envelope, concrete and structural, and fire protection, among others, wherever permit scope implies the trade.
See current projects that match your market
Tell us your city and trade. We will send 3 current, permit-backed matches. No card needed.
Request 3 sample projects →Permit Insights, our free weekly brief
What just got filed, where the work is, and what the data shows.