5 Tips for Earning Your First 5-Star Grade as a RazorClean Subcontractor

Joining the RazorClean subcontractor network is the first step. Earning your first 5-star grade is what opens the door to bigger contracts, higher budgets, and long-term success in the platform. Here are five practices that our top-rated subcontractors consistently follow.

First, communicate before, during, and after every job. Clients and RazorClean coordinators want to know that you're on top of things. Confirm your arrival time the day before, send a brief update when you arrive on site, and notify the client when the job is complete. This level of communication builds trust immediately and is one of the most common reasons subcontractors receive 5-star grades.

Second, show up in proper uniform. RazorClean has a clear uniform standard — red polo with 'RzCln' embroidered in white, black or brown pants. Clients notice when a subcontractor looks professional, and it signals that you take the work seriously. First impressions matter, and your appearance is part of the service.

Third, document your work. Take before-and-after photos on every job. This protects you if there's ever a dispute, and it also gives you a portfolio of completed work that demonstrates your quality. Subcontractors who document their jobs consistently tend to receive higher grades because clients can see the transformation.

Fourth, never bid on a job you can't complete on time. Overcommitting is one of the fastest ways to damage your reputation in the network. Be honest about your capacity, your equipment, and your timeline. A completed job done well is worth far more than a rushed or incomplete one.

Fifth, ask for feedback. After every job, invite the client to share their experience. Most clients won't leave a grade unless prompted. A simple, professional ask at the end of a job — 'I'd appreciate your feedback on the work today' — dramatically increases the number of grades you receive. Five graded jobs at a high level is what moves you from Start tier to Partnering tier, unlocking contracts up to $500,000.