By Emma Peterson. 

Staying ahead of joint employer rules, bid liability, cost escalation language and more.  

For many contractors, managing the legal and operational side of their roofing businesses often takes a back burner to their passion for their trade and craft. However, this can cause problems down the road as navigating the legal landscape of business ownership is crucial to adhering to regulations and building long-term success. To help contractors manage this side of their business, Trent Cotney, a partner at Adams and Reese specializing in roofing litigation, releases a monthly newsletter summing up legal and regulatory changes affecting roofing. Here’s a summary of what he covered in his May 2026 newsletter.  

1 – NLRB withdraws the 2023 joint-employer rule 

The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has formally withdrawn the 2023 joint-employer rule. In this rule’s place, the 2020 standard is returned. This standard is much narrower and requires “evidence that one entity exercises substantial direct and immediate control over essential employment terms of another employer’s workers.” 

What this means for contractors: Overall, this is a contractor-friendly change. The narrower rule adds certainty to employment conditions that should make employment of subcontractors easier. However, contractors must still be vigilant about employment lines on the jobsite and field crew still must communicate through each subcontractor’s designated supervisor. 

2 – Florida court holds that invitation to bid does not create a subcontract 

The Florida Second Court of Appeal just addressed the case of Willis A. Smith Construction, Inc. v. Keathley, No. 2D2025-1900. This case centered on the question of whether a general contractors could claim workers’ compensation immunity for a worker’s injury that occurred “while visiting a project site before submitting a subcontractor bid.” The court found that because the invitation to bid did not create any contractual obligation, did not specify binding scope and did not guarantee work, the contractor could not claim the compensation immunity.  

What this means for contractors: This case is a good reminder that “pre-bid communications, job walks, site visits and invitations to bid do not automatically create subcontractor status or workers’ compensation immunity.” As such, general contractors must be careful about requiring site-access language and proof of insurance for anyone visiting a site prior to contract awarding.  

3 – Allocating risk when asked to install material and systems 

Contractors are often asked to install products that they did not “select, design, manufacture or test for compatibility with existing conditions.” This can cause issues when it comes to warranties, as manufacturers often warrant their own products but not the whole system.  

What this means for contractors: To avoid issues related to this, contractors should include a manufacturer system compatibility clause that makes it clear the contractor is not responsible to failures caused by “product incompatibility, design decisions, concealed conditions, manufacturer limitations or owner-directed substitutions.” This is an example of that type of clause: 

Contractor shall be responsible for installing the materials, products, components, and systems within Contractor’s scope of work in accordance with the Contract Documents and applicable manufacturer installation instructions made available to Contractor. Contractor does not warrant, guarantee, or assume responsibility for the compatibility, integration, performance, chemical interaction, physical compatibility, adhesion, fastening performance, thermal movement, moisture tolerance, structural suitability, code compliance, or long-term performance of any material, product, component, assembly, substrate, existing condition, adjacent system, or owner-selected item that Contractor did not design, manufacture, specify, select or expressly approve in writing. 

*Read the whole provision.

4 – Navigating project costs with rising material prices 

In the era of tariff changes, freight distributions, supply chain volatility and regulatory constraints, it is not uncommon for project costs and schedules to shift after a contract has been signed. This creates a legal question of who bears the risk when project costs change after a bid. 

What this means for contractors: Contractors must be careful to make adjust their contracts so that they do not “assume a stable market that no longer exists.” What does this mean? Include things like price escalation clauses, regulatory-change provisions, substitution rights and/or material availability protection.  

And even if you have all these provisions, documentation remains key. Contractors should record everything from quotes to communication expressing availability changes. As Trent puts it, “Without that record, even a strong contract clause may be difficult to enforce.” 

Check out the full May 2026 Cotney brief.

By Emma Peterson. 

A conversation with Trent Cotney on why proactive policies and operations matter more now than ever. 

Going into 2026, there was a lot of commotion to keep track of, from uncertainty about tariffs to immigration changes and beyond. And now, one quarter into the year, there are even more geopolitics and economic factors to track. It can feel like a lot, which is why we spoke with Trent Cotney, who is a partner at the Adams and Reese law firm as well as the general counsel for leading associations like National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), for a Coffee Conversations® all about operating in our current market, which Trent describes as “a sort of intersection of regulatory pressure and economic volatility.”  

Trent’s main advice for contractors? Be proactive. He elaborated, “What I want our contractors to do is look at how to be proactive rather than reactive. One of the things I've seen over the years is that almost every single legal issue that a roofing contractor has is a symptom of an operational failure somewhere.” An example of this is OSHA fines. When contractors receive these, there’s probably a safety procedure that failed somewhere along the way. Or when it comes to customer issues, maybe you need to look at your process of vetting customers or your contract provisions to make sure you’re better protected.  

By proactively investing in these things and making sure that your procedures, operations and policies are all in place and secure, you can save your money in the long run. Trent explained, “Shoring up your policies, procedures, operations, contracts and all that can be a lot. But it will save you money in the long term as you won’t be throwing money away on lawyers and OSHA fines and all that reactive stuff.”  

Trent also recommends being proactive in your interactions with the rest of the market. In other words, get involved, make sure you know what’s going on so that you can prepare accordingly. He gave an example of what this might look like, “I encourage everybody to get involved in associations because that’s how I kind of keep my thumb on the pulse of the industry. I wouldn't be able to understand what's going on out there if I wasn't involved in associations. I really think that not only is it the external voice of our industry, but it is, it really helps you understand what you should be looking out for.” 

Listen to the whole recording or Watch the episode to learn more about operating in a proactive manner.  

By Jenny Yu.  

Contractors will gain practical insights from leading experts while connecting with top manufacturers and suppliers. 

The Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA) is hosting its 104th Convention & Expo from June 10-12, 2026, at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in in Kissimmee, Florida. With a strong lineup of sponsors and an educational program packed with timely topics, this year’s event is set to provide contractors with practical insights and valuable networking opportunities. 

A wide range of industry leaders are lending their support for the event, underscoring its importance across the roofing and metal construction sectors. Platinum sponsors include Eagle Roofing Products, ABC Supply and TAMKO®; while gold sponsors CertainTeed LLC, Polyglass and SOPREMA further highlight the depth of industry participation. Additional support from emerald sponsor Adams & Reese LLP; sapphire sponsors BITEC, Drexel Metals, MetalForming LLC and Sika Corporation; silver sponsor SRS Building Products; bronze sponsors Duro-Last®, IB Roof Systems™, PAC-CLAD Petersen and Roof Hugger; and affiliate sponsor, Roofing Contractors Association of South Florida (RCASF), reinforce the event’s focus on innovation, performance and contractor success. 

Educational sessions 

Education remains the cornerstone of the convention, with sessions designed to address today’s most pressing challenges in the industry while providing attendees with opportunities to earn CE credits. Legal and compliance topics are a hot topic with multiple sessions led by Trent Cotney, RoofersCoffeeShop® Influencer and partner at Adams & Reese LLP, including: 

• “Building an OSHA Inspection SOP” - Wednesday, June 10, 8:00 a.m. 
• “Roofing Legal, Labor and Policy Trends” - Wednesday, June 10, 12:30 p.m. and Friday, June 12, 7:00 a.m. 
• “Artificial Intelligence in Roofing” - Thursday, June 11, 7:00 a.m. 
• “ICE Raids and I-9 Audit Defense” - Thursday, June 11, 8:15 a.m. and Friday, June 12, 8:15 a.m. 

These sessions will provide contractors with actionable guidance on navigating regulations, mitigating risk and adapting to emerging technologies.  

Business operations are also a key focus. John Kenney, Influencer of The Coffee Shops™ and CEO of Cotney Consulting Group, will lead “Estimating for Small Business” on Wednesday, June 10, at 9:15 a.m. and Thursday, June 11, at 7:00 a.m., offering practical strategies to improve accuracy and profitability for contractors of all sizes. Meanwhile, Chad Westbrook, founder of Service Alignment, will present “Documenting a Roofing Project” on Thursday, June 11, at 9:30 a.m. and Friday, June 12, at 7:00 a.m., helping attendees strengthen processes that support accountability, communication and long-term project success. 

Additional sessions cover critical issues including Florida Building Code updates, metal roofing best practices and safety topics such as heat illness prevention. The “SkillsUSA: Build a Workforce Pipeline” session on Thursday, June 11, at 9:30 a.m., will also highlight strategies for developing the next generation of roofers, a growing priority for contractors facing ongoing workforce shortages. Together, these seminars provide well-rounded education opportunities tailored to both roofing and sheet metal professionals.  

Register to reserve your spot and take full advantage of everything the 104th FRSA Convention & Expo has to offer!

By Emma Peterson. 

The highly anticipated 104th Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Association Convention and Expo is just around the corner!  

In a new Roofing Road Trips®, Megan Ellsworth sat down with Tibor Torok, president of the Florida Roofing and Sheet Metall Association (FRSA), for a conversation about their annual convention and expo. This year’s show will take place June 10-12, 2026, at the Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee, Florida.  

This is a highly anticipated event, drawing thousands of contractors, suppliers and industry leaders from across Florida and beyond. Tibor explained, “There's only one roofing association that is larger than our trade show, and that's the NRCA...People from all over gravitate to our show to see what's upcoming, what's new.” 

In preparation for this, Tibor and his team have been working hard at making sure the show will be one to remember. He spoke a bit about the event highlights attendees can look forward to this year:  

We have a dozen or so first-time exhibitors offering new products and services in addition to the hundreds of long-term people that come year after year and support us. We have a free welcome reception (sponsored by Adams and Reese) and a business lunch that are great for networking. There’s also a Jimmy Buffet themed casino party, a clay sporting tournament and a golf tournament for people to enjoy.  

FRSA will also be offering over 30 hours of continuing education. Taught by professionals in the field, these courses cover everything from Florida building codes and sales training to metal roofing training and fall protection education.  

All of this can feel like a lot to take in, especially if this is your first time attending the FRSA Convention and Expo. Tibor’s advice to newcomers? Take your time and ask questions. He explained:  

Last year we had over 5,000 attendees. So, give yourself time for things like registration. Also Gaylord Palms is large and events happen in multiple locations. Download the show app to get a complete exhibitor list, seminar schedule and floor plan. Overall, take your time and enjoy learning about the new products and methods in the industry. And if you have any questions, ask. You’ll be surprised how many people will engage with you. 

Listen to the episode or Watch the recording to hear more from Tibor. And if you haven't already, make sure to register for the 104th FRSA Convention and Expo.

By Emma Peterson. 

The latest Cotney Brief shares April 2026 construction law insights and updates. 

For contractors working in roofing and construction, the Cotney Briefs are an invaluable resource to keeping up with legal and regulatory changes affecting the industry. These briefs are written by Trent Cotney, a lawyer and partner at Adams and Reese law firm. Here’s what the April 2026 brief highlighted.  

1 – Compliance stakes raise with an E-Verify law 

Ohio recently enacted House Bill 246, otherwise known as the E-Verify Workforce Integrity Act. Originally signed in December of 2025, this law “covers nonresidential construction contractors, subcontractors at any tier and labor brokers that hire employees for covered nonresidential construction projects.”  

What does it mean? The covered employers must run new employees through E-verify unless a limited exception applies. If the employee receives a final nonconfirmation, the employer must terminate employment. 

What this means for contractors: If you are performing nonresidential construction work in Ohio, it is crucial to review your hiring processes to confirm E-Verify compliance and ensure that your record keeping is accurate as to avoid violations, which can lead to “monetary penalties, disqualification from public contracting, and in some cases license consequences for knowingly employing unauthorized workers.” 

2 – Duty to inquire court case 

In a case between Korte Construction Co. And the Secretary of the Army, a Federal Circuit court was asked to look at an issue of Korte needed to install chilled water improvements as part of a project. Korte argued that this improvement was not shown in the drawings as they were not detailed enough and they are not required to do this. Opposingly, the Army was seeking a refund of roughly $493,000 for the lack of chilled water improvements. 

At the core of this issue is solicitation. As Trent wrote, “The main issue was whether the solicitation, read as a whole, required Korte to perform the chilled water work. A related issue was inconsistency between the specifications and drawings which created a patent ambiguity.” The recent result of this case? The Federal Circuit found that the specifications and drawings together unambiguously called for the chilled water improvements and that Korte’s interpretation was “not reasonable.”  

What this means for contractors: This case is a reminder of the importance of reading solicitations (specifications, drawings, etc.) as a whole rather than individuals. Further, it highlights the importance of raising the issue of inconsistent, incomplete and/or unclear plans prior to a bid.  

3 – Water intrusion contract provision 

Water intrusion is one of the most common and expensive issues in the roofing industry. It is also a frequent source of dispute as most contracts don’t properly address temporary dry-in obligations.  

What this means for contractors: In order to avoid these disputes, contractors should consider adding a provision to their contracts that specifically addresses water intrusion and temporary dry-in obligations. Trent recommends something like this:  

Contractor shall take commercially reasonable measures to provide temporary dry-in and protect only those portions of the Work directly opened or disturbed by Contractor during performance of its scope. Contractor’s obligation is limited to the exercise of reasonable care under the circumstances then existing, taking into account the stage of construction, weather conditions, available access, project sequencing, occupancy constraints, and the condition of the existing structure. Contractor does not guarantee or warrant that the Project, the building envelope, or any portion of the premises will remain watertight or free from water intrusion during the course of construction.* 

*Read the whole provision.

4 – What softening confidence means legally 

The current uneven economy is having ripple effects in the roofing industry. Where some projects are growing in popularity, such as data centers, others are weakening due to recession concerns. In fact, “In AGC’s 2026 outlook, contractors reported noticeably dampened expectations compared with the prior year, driven in part by concern over the broader economy and the possibility of a downturn.” 

What this means for contractors: To navigate this softening confidence, contractors should treat this time as a contract discipline moment. In other words, this is the time to "review price escalation language, clarify tariff and procurement risk, tighten notice and claim procedures, preserve suspension and termination rights, and confirm that payment, delay, and force majeure provisions match present market conditions.” 

Read the full brief online.

By Jenny Yu.  

This year’s convention offers a full lineup of events designed to connect professionals and their families, on and off the show floor. 

The Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA) 104th Convention & Expo is set to return June 10–12, 2026, at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, bringing together roofing professionals for three days of networking, education and a wide range of exciting social events designed for attendees and their families!  

Eat, drink and network 

The fun begins at the Welcome Reception on Wednesday, sponsored by Adams & Reese LLP, featuring food stations and an open bar in a relaxed setting. The excitement continues the next evening with the Jimmy Buffett Casino Party, an evening of games, dancing and tropical flair, alongside key presentations. Throughout the expo, the Beer Bust, sponsored by Mid-Atlantic Roofing Supply and GAF, and complimentary Expo lunches from PAC-CLAD Petersen and USG Securock offer casual opportunities to connect. 

Give back 

A cornerstone of the convention, the Foundation Auction runs throughout the event, raising funds for the FRSA Educational & Research Foundation. With both in-person and online bidding, attendees can support scholarships and industry advancement from wherever they are! Bidding starts on June 5 at 8:00 a.m. and ends June 12 at 2:00 p.m. 

Spotlighting women and Spanish speakers in the industry 

Professional development meets community at the National Women in Roofing (NWIR) Table Talks Session on Wednesday, June 10, where women in roofing can exchange insights on leadership and relationship building in a round-robin format. Registration is $25 and includes refreshments. 

On Thursday, June 11, SRS Building Products and CertainTeed join forces to host a special session for Spanish speakers to learn, connect and celebrate. This event is free, with limited spots available. 

Family fun for everyone! 

Enjoy time with loved ones, starting with Wednesday's Family Fun Event featuring indoor mini golf and a new “Brick Lab” competition where families can build and race custom Lego cars. The Kids’ Program adds even more excitement throughout the convention, with pizza-making, scavenger hunts, arcade competitions and interactive gaming experiences, ensuring younger roofers-to-be are just as engaged as their parents. 

Sports and creative experiences 

For those seeking active or creative outlets, attendees can participate in golf and clay shooting tournaments or explore artistic options like a textured painting workshop and a chocolate rose culinary experience. 

From networking receptions to family activities and charitable giving, FRSA’s 104th Convention & Expo offers something for everyone.  

Register now to secure your spot and experience it all.

Darrick O’Dell brings over two decades of knowledge and experience in construction litigation.

Adams & Reese announces the addition of Darrick O’Dell as counsel in the firm’s Construction Practice Group in Nashville. 

With more than two decades of trial and courtroom experience, O’Dell has built a reputation for combining deep industry knowledge with strategic, business-minded guidance that drives practical results. His practice focuses on construction litigation, large-loss property damage claims, insurance coverage disputes and general liability defense. Clients turn to O’Dell for his extensive experience and wide-ranging perspective, which allows him to anticipate risk, manage exposure and provide efficient client-focused representation.

“At Adams & Reese, we hire top-level talent whose skills and knowledge strengthen our ability to deliver outstanding results for the diverse range of clients and companies we represent,” said Gif Thornton, managing partner at Adams & Reese. "Darrick’s seasoned experience in construction law and in high-stakes litigation makes him a tremendous asset to our Construction Practice Group. We are pleased to welcome him to the team, where he will provide trusted legal guidance to our clients in Nashville, across Tennessee and beyond.” 

Prior to joining Adams & Reese, O'Dell served as primary counsel on numerous multi-million-dollar cases, representing insurance carriers, self-insured businesses and contractors in high-exposure litigation matters in both jury trials and binding arbitrations. His comprehensive construction law experience spans complex defect claims, large-loss property damage, coverage analysis and contractor liability. O’Dell also served as outside general counsel for a national roofing and remodeling contractor, overseeing contract negotiation and drafting, employment compliance and litigation management across multiple jurisdictions nationwide. 

Among his notable career achievements, O'Dell obtained the dismissal of a two-million-dollar lawsuit against a general contractor through summary judgment by invoking the workers' compensation exclusive remedy defense. He also secured complete defense judgments in two consecutive jury trials, occurring within two weeks of each other, regarding a products liability case and a commercial vehicle collision matter. Additionally, he obtained the dismissal of a five-million-dollar defamation case and, in doing so, secured a significant judgment for attorney fees under the Tennessee Public Participation Act.

"Adams & Reese shares my commitment to delivering both practical and strategic counsel to clients, and I am truly excited to join this great Nashville team," said Darrick O'Dell. "The firm's depth of resources and collaborative culture will allow me to continue providing the hands-on, client-focused representation that has been the hallmark of my practice.” 

O'Dell has lived in Nashville since 1993 and is a member of the Nashville Bar Association, the Tennessee Bar Association and the DRI Association of Lawyers Defending Businesses. He received his J.D. from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law and earned his B.S. in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. He is admitted to practice in the Tennessee State Courts and before the United States District Courts throughout Tennessee.

About Adams & Reese LLP

Adams & Reese LLP is a multidisciplinary law firm with a legacy of providing comprehensive legal services to clients across a wide range of industries. With nearly 350 attorneys and government relations advisors strategically located in 20 major cities throughout the southern and western United States, the firm serves multinational corporations, regional businesses, governmental entities, institutions and individuals in matters spanning more than 50 practice areas including corporate transactions, financial services, litigation, government relations and regulatory compliance, construction, aviation, energy, liquor and hospitality, real estate and intellectual property, among other practice areas. Founded in 1951, Adams & Reese has expanded its capabilities to meet the demands of an evolving and increasingly complex legal landscape, advising clients through challenging markets, economic cycles and landmark cases. The firm’s attorneys and government relations advisors have built a strong reputation for delivering innovative, results-driven legal counsel that is tailored to serve each client’s objectives and needs. For more information or to see a list of services, visit www.adamsandreese.com.

By Emma Peterson. 

This IIBEC education session is a great opportunity for contractors and other professionals interested in the legal landscape of construction. 

In just a couple weeks, March 12-15, 2026, over 1,700 consultants, architects, engineers, design professionals and other professionals working in the building envelope industry will convene in Sacramento, California for the 2026 International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) Convention and Tradeshow.  

This event is not only a great opportunity to network with your peers in the industry and explore an extensive expo hall full of the latest advancements in building science technology, but it is also an opportunity for you to learn from industry leaders in education sessions designed to help you grow professionally! One such session is the “State of the Industry: A Look at Contract Provisions and Other Emerging Trends” led by Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese. 

Trent is one of the leading construction lawyers in the field. With over 25 years of legal experience, Trent is licensed in nine different states and serves as general counsel for more than 10 trade associations and organizations, including the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), Florida Roofing & Sheet Metal Association (FRSA), Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3) and Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA). 

In his IIBEC education session, which will be hosted Friday, March 13, 2026 from 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Trent will share an up-to-date overview of the industry’s legal landscape and guide attendees through an exploration of “how recent legal developments, regulatory changesand market conditions are reshaping risk allocation, project delivery and compliance strategies.” Participants will walk away with actionable strategies that equip them to:  

• Navigate contract provisions confidently: Whether it’s scope of work, indemnification, payment terms or dispute resolution provisions, Trent’s session will help attendees recognize and navigate these key elements of a contract.  
• Analyze and respond to emerging trends: You will walk away with a better understanding of current and anticipated policy trends, such as those related to labor and immigration.  
• Evaluate risk management options: Attendees of the session will learn about evolving contract language as related to risk management for owners, general contractors and subcontractors. 
• Adapt their businesses to new market realities: Ultimately, this session will give you the skills needed to adapt your business to reflect new market realities. 

Not only is this a great opportunity for you to get a better understanding of your industry and boost your career, but Trent’s session has been approved for 1.25 IIBEC CEH and 1.25 AIA LU/Elective!  

If you haven’t already, make sure you are registered to attend the 2026 IIBEC Convention and Expo! And if you’re interested in learning more about Trent’s session or any of the other education opportunities at the show, check out the full schedule online.

By Dani Sheehan. 

Tariffs remain part of the operating environment, even as the legal justification behind them evolves. What does this mean for your business? 

In a recent 6-3 decision, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled that the president exceeded his authority by imposing sweeping global tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). At the time this was written, the Court found that while the law allows economic action during national emergencies, it does not explicitly authorize broad tariff programs which require Congressional approval under the Constitution. 

Shortly after the ruling, the administration clarified that tariffs were not eliminated, only the use of IEEPA for that purpose. Existing tariffs remain in place, and a new 10% global tariff was immediately announced under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974.  

For the roofing industry, we want to explore how trade policy uncertainty amidst this latest ruling continues to shape pricing, contracts and planning decisions as we move through 2026. 

How this affects the roofing industry 

The Supreme Court decision narrowed the legal pathway used to justify certain tariffs, but it did not remove tariff authority altogether. We asked Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese LLP, how this might affect the industry in the coming months. He replied, sharing: 

The Supreme Court’s recent ruling was not unanticipated and impacts the current tariff structure under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). Roofing contractors should recognize that the Administration will propose alternative means to support a tariff program through sections contained in the Trade Act of 1974, Trade Expansion Act of 1962 or Tariff Act of 1930. The ruling does inject uncertainty into the extent and amount of tariffs and the impact of tariffs that were already assessed under the IEEPA. Regardless, from a legal perspective, we encourage contractors to include price acceleration provisions in their contract to account for tariff activity. 

Construction is especially sensitive to trade policy because so many commonly used materials rely on imported inputs. The rising uncertainty in the wake of this ruling requires us to be cautious about assuming near-term price relief. Even if certain tariffs are refunded, the timeline is vague, and pricing rarely comes down quickly, especially once inventory, supplier contracts and freight costs are already set. 

Why this moment still matters 

While continued tariff activity may feel like more of the same, there is constructive movement for the roofing industry: 

• Trade policy is now more clearly tied to defined statutory authority, rather than emergency powers 
• That clarity can lead to more predictable decision-making over time 
• Contractors who understand where tariffs can and cannot come from are better positioned to manage risk 

What you can do 

1 – Build protection into contracts  

Proactive contract language is one of the most effective tools contractors can have. Including price escalation or acceleration clauses allow contractors to adjust pricing when material costs change due to tariffs or other external factors, helping protect margins on longer-term projects. 

2 – Continue planning for cost variability 

Tariffs are only one factor influencing roofing costs, alongside labor availability, freight, insurance and compliance requirements. Smart contractors will continue to carry contingencies in bids, lock pricing where possible and avoid over-committing on long lead-time materials without flexibility. 

3 – Communicate clearly with customers 

This ruling provides a helpful framework for customer conversations. You can explain that: 

• Pricing volatility is driven by global trade dynamics 
• Legal clarity helps planning but there is still risk 
• Your role includes managing uncertainty on behalf of your customer 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

The 2026 IIBEC Convention is an opportunity to reconnect with peers, expand professional networks, earn continuing education credits and explore solutions on the trade show floor.

If you are ready to reset your rhythm for 2026, it is time to head to Sacramento for the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) International Convention and Trade Show. Designed for building enclosure consultants, contractors and industry professionals, this year’s event brings together leadership insight, technical expertise and forward-thinking strategies to help attendees stay competitive in a rapidly changing construction landscape.

Attendees can start their convention experience with a strategic look at the legal and business forces shaping construction. The session State of the Industry: A Look at Contract Provisions and Other Emerging Trends, presented by Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese on Friday, March 13 from 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., has been approved for 1.25 IIBEC CEH and 1.25 AIA LU/Elective credits. Participants will gain insight into critical contract provisions, emerging regulatory activity and practical risk management strategies they can apply immediately. For consultants and contractors navigating increasingly complex projects, this session provides guidance that can help protect businesses while strengthening client relationships.

That afternoon, the Opening Ceremony and keynote will comence (Friday, March 13 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:15 p.m.). It will feature award-winning filmmaker and dynamic storyteller Brett Culp. Titled Superhero Leadership in Uncertain Times, his talk challenges attendees to rethink leadership not as authority or title but as service, authenticity and mission over ego. Through cinematic storytelling, humor and powerful real-world examples, his presentation is designed to leave professionals energized, grounded and ready to lead with clarity even when the ground feels unsteady. It is the kind of keynote that goes beyond inspiration, offering a renewed perspective on how strong leadership can guide teams and projects through uncertainty.

Then Sunday morning (9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.) kicks off with Aaron B. Nelson, RBEC, RRO's presentation of The 1,000,000 Square-Foot Conundrum and Other Boxes to Climb Out Of, also approved for 1.25 IIBEC CEH and 1.25 AIA LU/Elective credits. Using real-world case studies, the session explores how reframing problems, breaking down complexity and tailoring solutions to each building’s unique needs can lead to stronger outcomes for both clients and project teams. Large-scale projects demand creative thinking and strategic execution, and this presentation offers practical tools that attendees can bring back to their organizations.

Later that day, from 4:15 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., Tom Gernetzke, F-IIBEC, RBEC, CBECxP, and Amy Peterselli, JD, will lead Navigating the High-Risk World of Community Association Projects. Approved for 0.75 IIBEC CEH and 0.5 AIA LU/Elective credits, this advanced session examines one of the highest-risk categories consultants face. Attendees will learn about legal and insurance considerations, communication strategies and risk management techniques that support successful HOA and condominium projects while helping protect their practices.

Throughout the entire convention, RoofersCoffeeShop will be on site with a live sound stage sponsored by Western Colloid.  Make sure to stop by and share your insights on the trends, challenges and opportunities shaping the building envelope industry in 2026 with our crew. 

Overall, the 2026 IIBEC Convention is an opportunity to reconnect with peers, expand professional networks, earn continuing education credits and explore solutions on the trade show floor that can drive business forward. As the industry continues to evolve and client expectations rise, events like this provide the clarity and momentum professionals need to lead with confidence. Now is the time for contractors along with building envelope consultants to get their grove back on track.

Review the full schedule, secure your registration and make plans to join the building enclosure community in Sacramento. Visit IIBEC.org to learn more and register today.