ARLINGTON, Va. - Compensation in contracting businesses has risen significantly over the past two years as contractors fight to recruit and retain better workers, according to data gathered by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA). The association has released the results of its comprehensive 2007 HVACR Labor & Payroll Expense survey and the final report is available for purchase.

ACCA surveyed its members regarding salaries, labor, and payroll expenses. More than 300 contractors responded to the survey. The survey questions were identical to a similar survey conducted in 2005, making direct comparisons possible. In addition to overall results, responses in the report are categorized by market (e.g., residential, commercial), sales source (e.g., replacement, new construction), workforce (e.g., union, non-union), sales volume in dollars, number of employees, and region (e.g., Atlantic, South, West).

Overall, 45 percent of respondents in 2007 paid their technicians more than $45,000 a year, up from only 30 percent in 2005. Thirty percent reported paying $45,000-54,999, compared to only 21 percent in 2005. Only 22 percent reported paying technicians less than $35,000, down from 28 percent in 2005.

Contractors can use the comprehensive ACCA HVACR Labor & Payroll Expense Report to compare labor and payroll expenses based on geographical location, company size, primary market, and other common denominators. The association notes that these basic benchmarks represent important business intelligence for contractors of all shapes and sizes.

ACCA members who participated in the survey have received a copy of the report free of charge. Those who did not participate may purchase the report at ACCA’s Online Store at www.acca.org/store (look under “New Products from ACCA”) or by calling 888-290-2220. Members save $100 off the list price of $185.

Publication date: 01/28/2008