Immigration enforcement has shifted from a looming concern to an immediate threat for construction contractors, with I-9 audits and ICE actions already underway. In this urgent discussion, Jill Bloom and legal expert Trent Cotney stress that proactive, consistent I-9 compliance and documented good-faith efforts are now essential to avoiding serious penalties and protecting construction businesses heading into 2026.

As accounts receivable rise and backlogs ease, roofing contractors can’t afford to let collections drift. In this episode, Trent Cotney shares practical ways to get paid faster: vet customers before signing, set clear expectations, track AR weekly, and follow a consistent contact plan that escalates from reminders to demand letters. He also explains why incentive-based collections can outperform hourly roles, how payment plans can unlock stalled balances, and when an owner’s personal call can turn an overdue invoice into real dollars. Listen to the full conversation here.

In an exciting conversation with Roofing Contractor’s Group Publisher Jill Bloom, Legal Insights Expert Trent Cotney breaks down the recent surge in I-9 audits targeting roofing contractors and shares essential guidance for reducing risk.

In this “Dear Anna” episode, Art Unlimited CEO Anna Anderson explores how contractors should approach using video in their marketing and advertising strategies to give them the edge against their competition.

Contractors should prioritize carefully evaluating software agreements, preparing for the operational and emotional impacts of business acquisitions, and strengthening fundamentals like cash flow and accounts receivable to navigate a shifting market. Trent Cotney emphasizes that proactive planning, realistic expectations, and strategic decision-making are essential for long-term stability and success in today’s contracting environment.

Steve Slepcevic was already on the ground in Jamaica when Hurricane Melissa blasted the Caribbean island in late October. His background in disaster response and roofing proved invaluable. Within days, he established communications for emergency services, installing Starlink systems for the mayor’s office, police, and fire departments.

His crew helped locate a site in Black River where Samaritan’s Purse could set up a field hospital—and even helped shrink-wrap a damaged hospital roof to protect what remained. Many of the island’s doctors, firefighters, and hotel workers are still showing up to serve others, even while sleeping under tarps themselves.

“Now that those comms are up, we can focus on getting roofs back on homes and hospitals,” he told RC in an exclusive videochat from the island. “These people are incredible,” Slepcevic said. “Their roofs have blown off, they’re sleeping on wet mattresses, and they still show up to work with smiles on their faces.”

But “Operation One Roof, One Love” is about more than construction—it’s about compassion.

Now, he’s calling on contractors everywhere to join him. Volunteers can fly directly into Montego Bay, where trusted drivers will transport them (and their tools) to safe lodging at the Ocean Coral Springs Resort.

Listen to the full conversation and to learn how you can help or volunteer with Operation One Roof: One Love, visit srp24.com or email Steve at steve@srp24.com.

Roofing contractors and business owners already dealing with increased immigration enforcement and its impact on the roofing workforce may have more policies to navigate. A recent shake-up at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) ordered by the White House could mean even stronger enforcement in some areas.

“Internally, I don’t think they’re happy with some of the (deportation) numbers that have already been achieved,” said RC Legal Insights Expert Trent Cotney. “So, you can anticipate further enforcement and that’s part of the some of these changes we’re seeing.”

Cotney also laid out some legal strategies for roofing contractors caught up in immigration sweeps and some pitfalls to avoid. Listen to the full conversation now.