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• Fraud and Embezzlement in the Small Business Environment
  We have all heard much about fraud in recent years as it relates to business. In the early 2000s, the news was filled with scandals involving fraud of various types. The mere mention of Enron and Worldcom, for example, is now virtually synonymous with the word fraud. Although these scandals... 
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• Surety Industry Results for 2007 
  The surety industry recently published underwriting results for 2007.  As was generally expected the surety industry posted strong profits from underwriting this past year.  Direct losses incurred to direct premiums earned, called the net loss ratio, averaged 18.9% for the industry overall. 
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• Looking back at 2007 with an eye toward 2008 
  Now that we have closed the file on 2007 and begin a new year, I thought this would be a good time share some observations from the past year.  Calendar year 2007 was an interesting year as backlogs were relatively strong, most construction firms were profitable, and the non-residential construction market continued to run strong.  However, 2007 also brought ...more
  


• Are You Actively Managing Your Expenses?
  Times have been very good for the construction community over the recent past. With the exception of the real estate market, all phases of construction seem to be operating on all cylinders. This has resulted in strong profits for many companies. However, all good things eventually end ...more
  
  
• Deferred Taxes – Potential Impact on Your Business and Surety Program
  Over the past several years the construction industry has been going strong with plentiful amounts of work available.  With this growth come the routine challenges of personnel, infrastructure, cash flow, etc…   While all of these challenges are items you see and face everyday, another challenge may be growing that you need to be aware of as well ...more
  
  
• Position Your Business to Protect Your Estate and Carry Out Your Wishes
  I was recently involved in a situation where a close member of the family passed away unexpectedly. This family member did not have a plan in place with respect to final wishes, disposition of assets or many other aspects of his financial life. To say the process immediately following his passing was trying would be an understatement ...more
  
  
• Pre-qualify Subcontractors – Things to Consider
  With the slow down in the residential market you likely have seen more competition on projects as well as a longer list of subcontractors looking to provide bids to general contractors.  With this new infusion of subcontractors to the commercial marketplace, are you, as a general contractor, being selective with regard to which subcontractor you will use?  As a subcontractor, are you trying to position your business to be a preferred subcontractor? ...more