JT Roofing and Building Maintenance has had its best-ever year

Dec 18 2009 by Chris Knox, The Journal

A ROOFING contractor expects to almost double its workforce in the next five years after picking up a series of contracts in the public sector, including a number of social housing projects.

South Tyneside-based JT Roofing and Building Maintenance has built up its revenues with contracts on public housing and says it has had its best year since launching in June 2006.

The firm has shied away from private housing work since setting up, which has helped it to protect itself from the worst effects of the recession and is now looking to grow its 13-strong workforce to more than 20 over the next few years.

Although commercial director Dave Murray said the firm had managed to do so well because it was starting from a low base, he did say that he expects additional growth next year.

With the help of a grant from South Tyneside Council, the firm was founded in East Boldon by Jason Lilley, 39, and Tom Forrest, 57, after the pair spotted a gap in the roofing market.

The pair, who have over 55 years of combined experience in the industry, were then joined by Mr Forrest’s wife, Elaine, to help run the administration and communications side of the business.

After achieving accreditation from Constructionline and the Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme (CHAS), the team expanded into new markets, winning a number of sought- after contracts with organisations such as Sunderland housing group Gentoo, South Tyneside Homes and South Tyneside Council.

The firm was originally ran out of Mr and Mrs Forrest’s kitchen and garage in East Boldon before an increase in work saw it move into a nearby factory and office unit on Cleadon Lane Industrial Estate.