The federal government's shutdown will primarily impact federal contractors and subcontractors, but other contractors will also experience disruptions and a reduction in OSHA enforcement if the shutdown continues.
Construction job openings plunged in August to their lowest level in nearly a decade, falling by 115,000 from July and signaling cooling industry momentum.
Contractors report a shift in market momentum, with survey data showing signs of pressure in some sectors even as confidence holds above growth thresholds.
Construction backlog rose to 8.8 months in July, up 0.4 months year-over-year, despite declining contractor confidence in profit margins, ABC reported.
The latest job numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show slowed hiring in June, with companies laying off workers at a historically slow pace and remaining sluggish about hiring.
The construction industry added 15,000 jobs in June, bringing the year-over-year total to 121,000. However, rising costs, project delays and high interest rates are squeezing contractor margins.
Construction job openings rose slightly in May to 245,000 but remain down 35% from last year. Despite slow hiring, over half of contractors expect growth ahead.
President Donald Trump’s deportation policy reversals — initially shielding farms and hotels, then reversing course — leave roofing contractors exposed amid workforce raids and visa program gaps. Trade groups have been actively contacting members of Congress.