Why Everywhere is Strengthening Immigration Compliance in Our General Contractor Agreements: Protecting Projects, Partners, and the Industry
In the current landscape of U.S. immigration enforcement, the construction industry faces unprecedented challenges. Since the start of 2025, ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) has intensified worksite audits, inspections, and enforcement actions, with construction sites frequently in the spotlight due to the sector’s reliance on a diverse workforce. Reports from industry groups like the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) indicate that nearly one in three construction firms has been directly or indirectly affected by these actions in recent months—whether through jobsite visits, worker absences due to fears of enforcement, or disruptions from raids. High-profile incidents, such as large-scale arrests at construction projects in Florida, Georgia, and Texas, have highlighted the risks: project delays, labor shortages, increased costs, and potential fines that can reach tens of thousands of dollars per violation under the Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA) of 1986.
These enforcement trends are not new in principle—IRCA has long required employers to verify work eligibility via Form I-9 and prohibited knowingly hiring unauthorized workers—but the scale and frequency have surged. Penalties for violations have risen again in 2025 (e.g., civil fines up to $27,894+ per unauthorized worker for knowing hires), and operations have targeted industries like construction, where foreign-born workers make up a significant portion of the labor force. The result? Widespread “chill” effects, with workers (including legal ones) avoiding sites, leading to slowdowns in homebuilding and infrastructure projects nationwide.
At Everywhere, we build beautiful, proprietary-designed homes through trusted partnerships with general contractors (GCs). Our clients rely on us for seamless, on-time delivery—and that starts with a stable, compliant supply chain. That’s why we’ve introduced a new Immigration and Employment Eligibility Compliance section into our General Contractor Agreements.
What the New Section Requires
This clause builds on longstanding federal law and aligns with best practices in today’s enforcement environment:
- Full adherence to IRCA and related regulations, including proper Form I-9 completion, retention, and verification for all hires (employees, subs, and laborers).
- No knowing employment of unauthorized workers.
- Flow-down of these obligations to all subcontractors.
- Prompt notification to Everywhere of any ICE audit, raid, or investigation.
Indemnification protection for Everywhere against any related claims, fines, or disruptions caused by non-compliance.
(Where applicable—such as for federal projects or in states with expanding mandates—encouraging or requiring E-Verify use as a proactive step.)
Why This Matters to Our GC Partners and Clients
- Project Reliability — Enforcement actions can halt work overnight. By requiring strict compliance, we minimize risks of delays that impact timelines, budgets, and client satisfaction.
- Risk Mitigation — GCs avoid hefty fines, criminal exposure, or debarment from future work. Everywhere protects its interests and reputation while supporting fair, lawful operations.
- Industry Leadership — In a sector grappling with labor shortages worsened by enforcement (e.g., estimates suggest potential net job losses in construction if trends continue), compliance builds trust. It signals responsibility and readiness, helping attract quality talent and partners.
- Ethical & Legal Alignment — We support legal workforce participation while upholding U.S. laws—no shortcuts, no exceptions.
This isn’t about politics—it’s about practicality. Construction thrives on predictability, and in 2026, immigration compliance is a key part of that equation. By embedding these standards, Everywhere ensures smoother collaborations, safer projects, and stronger outcomes for everyone involved.
We’re proud to lead with transparency and responsibility. If you’re a GC interested in partnering with us, reach out—we’re building the future, one compliant project at a time.
For full details on the updated agreement, contact our team at support@everywhereco.com.
