markups too, until I realized I’m not just charging for the product itself. I’m charging for the time sourcing it, ordering it, picking it up, handling issues, warranty responsibility, and the risk that comes with it. If something arrives damaged or wrong, that becomes my problem to solve, not the client’s. The markup helps cover overhead and keeps the business sustainable. It’s no different than any other industry, people just notice it more in construction because the numbers are bigger and everyone suddenly becomes a part-time accountant
Markup on materials isn’t about ripping people off. It covers the time sourcing, ordering, pickups, damaged items, warranty issues, fuel, supplier accounts, and the risk contractors take when something goes wrong. Clients aren’t just paying for the material itself, they’re paying for the contractor handling the entire process so they don’t have to. Every business marks things up. Contractors just get questioned about it more because people can physically see the receipt and suddenly turn into forensic accountants.
