Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are there fees, dues or other costs associated with becoming a Union Signatory Contractor?
There are no dues or fees. Each month the Carpenter's Fund Administrative office mails each employer a reporting form, where the employer lists each carpenter employee and the number of hours worked for that particular month. This form is accompanied by one check which covers all of the fringe benefits (i.e., health insurance, retirement, vacation, training, etc.) for all Carpenter employees.

2. How long am I obligated to remain a Union Signatory Employer?
The current agreement runs to July 1, 2012. We view our relationship as a partnership and believe that if we are successful, your decision to remain a Union employer will be a smart business decision and, therefore, a lasting one.

3. Can my company remain competitive as Union Signatory Employer?
The most successful companies are, in fact, Union signatories. As a partner, the Union will bring all it can to the table to make your company competitive. In fact, most employers have expanded and grown their market share as a result of being a Union Signatory Employer.

4. Can I keep my current employees on payroll as a result of becoming a Union Signatory Employer?
Absolutely. In fact, the Union will work with you to provide skill training, if necessary, and bring your existing employees fully into the Union family at a level that you and they are both comfortable with.

5. Can I call the Union Hall for good workers?
Yes. The Carpenter's hiring halls are available to you as a Signatory Employer. Simply call the local in your area, with a good description of the work to be done, and we'll work to match your needs with our available workforce.

6. What if I am unsatisfied with the workers that are sent to me?
Ultimately, you have to decide who is going to be a part of your company. You have the right to terminate for just cause. We do not have a seniority clause in our agreement.

7. How do I get workers with special skills?
The Carpenters Apprenticeship and Training Program provides special training in leadership, hazardous materials handling, asbestos abatement, welding, certified safety and first aid, cleanrooms, and many other courses. All course are available to your Carpenter employees as a Union Signatory Employer.
For more information, visit www.ctcnc.org

8. How will a partnership with the Northern California Carpenters impact my company?
Our partnership is a positive approach to doing business. Your company must be competitive and performing quality work in order to be successful. We bring positive factors to the table in the partnership such as training, safety, quality, a reliable workforce, job referrals, and community and political advantages, all of which are designed to help the Union Signatory Contractor succeed. Our members benefit by way of a fair wage with basic benefits, under a Union Agreement. Our agreement works for the employer, as well as the employees.

The bottom line is your company will profit from a partnership with the Northern California Carpenters.