2027 update: Use this checklist to estimate your own vacancy cost before the 2027 busy season.

Related Reading: What It Costs to Hire a Skilled Trades Worker | Hire Skilled Trades Talent Faster

The long-term fix is systemic — see why you should stop posting jobs and start building a hiring system.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it cost to leave a trades position unfilled?

Lost billable hours, delayed jobs, overtime for your current crew and cancelled customer work.

How fast should I fill a trades opening?

As fast as your screening allows. Every week open adds to the cost.

How can I reduce time to hire?

Write a clear job post, respond to applicants the same day and make offers within days of the final interview.

Is a recruiter worth it for urgent roles?

For licensed or hard to find roles, a recruiter often costs less than weeks of lost revenue.