Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Page
Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
40
Consolidated Balance Sheets
42
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)
43
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity
44
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
45
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Stockholders and the Board of Directors of IES Holdings, Inc. and subsidiaries
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of IES Holdings, Inc. and subsidiaries (the Company) as of September 30, 2021 and 2020, the related consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) , stockholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2021, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company at September 30, 2021 and 2020, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2021, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2021, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission ( 2013 framework ) and our report dated December 3, 2021 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Critical Audit Matter
The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current period audit of the financial statements that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective or complex judgments. The communication of the critical audit matter does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which it relates.
Revenue recognition for certain fixed-price contracts
Description of the matter As described in Notes 2 and 4 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company generally recognizes revenue for fixed price contracts over time using costs incurred as a percentage of the estimated total costs at completion to determine the extent of progress of performance obligations. Revenue recognition under this method is subject to judgment as the determination of progress towards completion requires management to prepare estimates of the total project costs to complete.
Auditing management’s estimate of the progress towards completion for certain projects which are larger in size and longer in duration was complex and subjective, requiring considerable judgment to evaluate management’s determination of the forecasted costs to complete, specifically as it relates to labor productivity.
How we addressed the matter in our audit We obtained an understanding, evaluated the design and tested the operating effectiveness of controls over the Company's cost estimating process, including controls over management's review of cost estimates for significant inputs such as labor.
Our audit procedures included, among others, evaluating the appropriate application of the Company's revenue recognition method; testing significant assumptions used to develop the estimated costs to complete; and testing the completeness and accuracy of the underlying data. To assess the reasonableness of management's estimated costs, we performed audit procedures that included, among others, agreeing the estimates to supporting documentation; conducting interviews with project personnel; attending select project review meetings; and performing sensitivity analyses or retrospective review using historical actual costs and trends.
/s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2002
Houston, Texas
December 3, 2021
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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Stockholders and the Board of Directors of IES Holdings, Inc. and subsidiaries
Opinion on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
We have audited IES Holdings, Inc. and subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2021, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) (the COSO criteria). In our opinion, IES Holdings, Inc. and subsidiaries (the Company) maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2021, based on the COSO criteria.
As indicated in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Controls over Financial Reporting, management’s assessment of and conclusion on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting did not include the internal controls of Bayonet Plumbing, Heating & Air-Conditioning, LLC, Edmonson Electric, LLC, K.E.P. Electric, Inc., and Wedlake Fabricating, Inc., which are included in the 2021 consolidated financial statements of the Company and constituted 11% of total assets, excluding goodwill and intangible assets, as of September 30, 2021 and 12% of consolidated revenues for the year then ended. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting of the Company also did not include an evaluation of the internal control over financial reporting of Bayonet Plumbing, Heating & Air-Conditioning, LLC, Edmonson Electric, LLC, K.E.P. Electric, Inc., and Wedlake Fabricating, Inc.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated balance sheets of the Company as of September 30, 2021 and 2020, the related consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss), stockholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2021, and the related notes and our report dated December 3, 2021 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
Basis for Opinion
The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.
Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
/s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP
Houston, Texas
December 3, 2021
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IES HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(In Thousands, Except Share Information)
September 30,
2021 2020
ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 23,105 $ 53,577
Accounts receivable:
Trade, net of allowance 286,707 213,016
Retainage 41,341 40,878
Inventories 68,573 24,889
Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings 43,389 29,937
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 21,065 9,153
Total current assets 484,180 371,450
Property and equipment, net 35,454 24,589
Goodwill 92,395 53,763
Intangible assets, net 85,619 39,357
Deferred tax assets 19,009 33,803
Operating right of use assets 42,916 31,786
Other non-current assets 7,049 5,780
Total assets $ 766,622 $ 560,528
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Accounts payable and accrued expenses 249,114 186,710
Billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings 62,486 55,739
Total current liabilities 311,600 242,449
Long-term debt 39,746 217
Operating long-term lease liabilities 28,649 20,530
Other non-current liabilities 16,080 12,215
Total liabilities 396,075 275,411
Noncontrolling interest 24,594 1,804
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:
Preferred stock, $ 0.01 par value, 10,000,000 shares authorized, none issued
and outstanding — —
Common stock, $ 0.01 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized; 22,049,529
issued and 20,732,531 and 20,762,395 outstanding, respectively
220 220
Treasury stock, at cost, 1,316,998 and 1,287,134 shares, respectively
( 29,300 ) ( 24,499 )
Additional paid-in capital 201,899 200,587
Retained earnings 173,134 107,005
Total stockholders’ equity 345,953 283,313
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 766,622 $ 560,528
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
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IES HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)
(In Thousands, Except Share Information)
Year Ended September 30,
2021 2020 2019
Revenues $ 1,536,493 $ 1,190,856 $ 1,076,996
Cost of services 1,248,495 962,897 894,893
Gross profit 287,998 227,959 182,103
Selling, general and administrative expenses 202,251 170,911 140,575
Goodwill impairment expense — 6,976 —
Contingent consideration 211 ( 11 ) ( 374 )
Loss (gain) on sale of assets ( 47 ) — 52
Operating income 85,583 50,083 41,850
Interest and other (income) expense:
Interest expense 962 777 1,857
Other (income) expense, net ( 286 ) 12 ( 148 )
Income from operations before income taxes 84,907 49,294 40,141
Provision for income taxes 16,231 8,740 6,663
Net income 68,676 40,554 33,478
Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest ( 2,018 ) 1,045 ( 272 )
Comprehensive income attributable to IES Holdings, Inc. $ 66,658 $ 41,599 $ 33,206
Earnings per share attributable to common stockholders of IES Holdings, Inc.:
Basic $ 3.19 $ 1.96 $ 1.56
Diluted $ 3.15 $ 1.94 $ 1.55
Shares used in the computation of earnings per share:
Basic 20,790,307 20,795,892 21,082,012
Diluted 21,086,432 21,092,410 21,315,245
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
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IES HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity
(In Thousands, Except Share Information)
Common Stock Treasury Stock Additional Paid-In Capital Retained Earnings Total Stockholders' Equity
Shares Amount Shares Amount
BALANCE, September 30, 2018 22,049,529 $ 220 ( 843,993 ) $ ( 8,937 ) $ 196,810 $ 32,314 $ 220,407
Issuance of share-based compensation — — 501,797 5,942 ( 5,942 ) — —
Acquisition of treasury stock — — ( 564,822 ) ( 9,802 ) — — ( 9,802 )
Options exercised — — 22,500 314 ( 314 ) — —
Non-cash compensation — — — — 2,357 — 2,357
Cumulative effect adjustment from adoption of new accounting standard — — — — — 80 80
Net income attributable to IES Holdings, Inc. — — — — — 33,206 33,206
BALANCE, September 30, 2019 22,049,529 $ 220 ( 884,518 ) $ ( 12,483 ) $ 192,911 $ 65,600 $ 246,248
Issuance of share-based compensation — — 120,197 1,708 ( 1,708 ) — —
Acquisition of treasury stock — — ( 528,563 ) ( 13,808 ) 6,111 — ( 7,697 )
Options exercised — — 5,750 84 ( 50 ) — 34
Non-cash compensation — — — — 3,323 — 3,323
Increase in noncontrolling interest — — — — — ( 194 ) ( 194 )
Net income attributable to IES Holdings, Inc. — — — — — 41,599 41,599
BALANCE, September 30, 2020 22,049,529 $ 220 ( 1,287,134 ) $ ( 24,499 ) $ 200,587 $ 107,005 $ 283,313
Issuance of share-based compensation — — 140,660 2,737 ( 2,737 ) — —
Acquisition of treasury stock — — ( 170,524 ) ( 7,538 ) 528 — ( 7,010 )
Options exercised — — — — — — —
Non-cash compensation — — — — 3,522 — 3,522
Increase in noncontrolling interest — — — — — ( 315 ) ( 315 )
Cumulative effect adjustment from adoption of new accounting standard — — — — — ( 214 ) ( 214 )
Net income attributable to IES Holdings, Inc. — — — — — 66,658 66,658
BALANCE, September 30, 2021 22,049,529 $ 220 ( 1,316,998 ) $ ( 29,300 ) $ 201,899 $ 173,134 $ 345,953
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
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IES HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(In Thousands)
Year Ended September 30,
2021 2020 2019
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income (loss) $ 68,676 $ 40,554 $ 33,478
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
Bad debt expense 1,216 1,864 552
Deferred financing cost amortization 198 152 318
Depreciation and amortization 21,914 12,508 9,557
Loss (gain) on sale of assets ( 47 ) — 52
Non-cash compensation expense 3,522 3,323 2,357
Goodwill impairment expense — 6,976 —
Deferred income taxes 11,724 5,122 5,681
Changes in operating assets and liabilities
Accounts receivable ( 55,371 ) ( 25,389 ) ( 35,254 )
Inventories ( 30,517 ) ( 2,822 ) ( 684 )
Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings ( 13,451 ) 435 1,586
Prepaid expenses and other current assets ( 9,226 ) ( 9,355 ) ( 7,171 )
Other non-current assets 703 510 ( 444 )
Accounts payable and accrued expenses 30,623 20,122 22,472
Billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings 6,746 13,967 6,683
Other non-current liabilities 1,214 8,774 ( 459 )
Net cash provided by operating activities 37,924 76,741 38,724
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchases of property and equipment ( 7,401 ) ( 4,745 ) ( 6,300 )
Proceeds from sales of assets 295 104 502
Cash received (paid) in conjunction with business combinations or dispositions ( 92,463 ) ( 28,952 ) 50
Net cash used in investing activities ( 99,569 ) ( 33,593 ) ( 5,748 )
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Borrowings of debt 1,318,530 592,768 89,261
Repayments of debt ( 1,278,204 ) ( 592,756 ) ( 119,508 )
Finance lease payment ( 648 ) ( 215 ) —
Contingent consideration payment — — ( 240 )
Purchase of noncontrolling interest ( 1,188 ) — —
Distribution to noncontrolling interest ( 311 ) ( 639 ) ( 240 )
Purchase of treasury stock ( 7,006 ) ( 7,697 ) ( 9,802 )
Issuance of shares — 34 —
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 31,173 ( 8,505 ) ( 40,289 )
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS ( 30,472 ) 34,643 ( 7,313 )
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, beginning of period 53,577 18,934 26,247
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, end of period $ 23,105 $ 53,577 $ 18,934
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid for interest $ 738 $ 782 $ 1,743
Cash paid for income taxes (net) $ 5,062 $ 323 $ 1,370
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
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IES HOLDINGS, INC.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(All Amounts in Thousands Except Share Amounts)
1. BUSINESS
Description of the Business
IES Holdings, Inc . designs and installs integrated electrical and technology systems and provides infrastructure products and services across a variety of end markets, including data centers, residential housing and commercial and industrial facilities. Our operations are organized into four principal business segments, based upon the nature of our services:
• Communications – Nationwide provider of technology infrastructure services, including the design, build, and maintenance of the communications infrastructure within data centers for co-location and managed hosting customers for both large corporations and independent businesses.
• Residential – Regional provider of electrical installation services for single-family housing and multi-family apartment complexes, as well as heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) and plumbing installation services in certain markets.
• Infrastructure Solutions – Provider of electro-mechanical solutions for industrial operations, including apparatus repair and custom-engineered products such as generator enclosures to be used in data centers and other industrial applications.
• Commercial & Industrial – Provider of electrical and mechanical design, construction, and maintenance services to the commercial and industrial markets in various regional markets and nationwide in certain areas of expertise, such as the power infrastructure market and data centers.
The words “IES”, the “Company”, “we”, “our”, and “us” refer to IES Holdings, Inc. and, except as otherwise specified herein, to our consolidated subsidiaries.
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Principles of Consolidation
The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of IES Holdings, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Asset Impairment
During the fiscal year ended September 30, 2021, the Company recorded no asset impairment charges. At September 30, 2020, we recorded an impairment charge of $ 6,976 to Goodwill related to our Commercial & Industrial segment. During the fiscal year ended September 30, 2019, the Company recorded no asset impairment charges. Please refer to Note 17, “Goodwill and Intangible Assets” for further discussion.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires the use of estimates and assumptions by management in determining the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosures of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Estimates are primarily used in our revenue recognition of construction in progress, fair value assumptions in accounting for business combinations and analyzing goodwill, intangible assets and long-lived asset impairments and adjustments, allowance for credit losses, stock-based compensation, reserves for legal matters, realizability of deferred tax assets, unrecognized tax benefits and self-insured claims liabilities and related reserves.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
We consider all highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.
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Inventories
Inventories consist of raw materials, work in process, finished goods, and parts and supplies held for use in the ordinary course of business. Inventory is valued at the lower of cost or net realizable value generally using the historical average cost or first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. When circumstances dictate, we write down inventory to its estimated net realizable value based on assumptions about future demand, market conditions, plans for disposal, and physical condition of the product. Where shipping and handling costs on inventory purchases are borne by us, these charges are included in inventory and charged to cost of services upon use in our projects or the providing of services.
Property and Equipment
Additions of property and equipment are recorded at cost, and depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the related asset. Leasehold improvements are capitalized and depreciated over the lesser of the life of the lease or the estimated useful life of the asset.
Expenditures for repairs and maintenance are charged to expense when incurred. Expenditures for major renewals and betterments, which extend the useful lives of existing property and equipment, are capitalized and depreciated. Upon retirement or disposition of property and equipment, the capitalized cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and any resulting gain or loss is recognized in the statements of comprehensive income in the caption (gain) loss on sale of assets.
Goodwill
Goodwill attributable to each reporting unit is tested for impairment either by comparing the fair value of each reporting unit with its carrying value or by a qualitative assessment. These impairment tests are required to be performed at least annually. On an ongoing basis (absent any impairment indicators), we perform an impairment test annually using a measurement date of September 30. In evaluating goodwill for impairment, we have the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is greater than its carrying value. If we determine that it is more likely than not that the carrying value of a reporting unit is greater than its fair value, then we perform an impairment test by calculating the fair value of the reporting unit and comparing this calculated fair value with the carrying value of the reporting unit.
We estimate the fair value of the reporting unit based on both a market approach and an income approach, using discounted estimated future cash flows. The market approach uses market multiples of enterprise value to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization for comparable publicly traded companies. The income approach relies on significant estimates for future cash flows, projected long-term growth rates, and the weighted average cost of capital.
Intangible Assets
Intangible assets with definite lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives based on expected economic benefit with no residual value.
Debt Issuance Costs
Debt issuance costs are included as a reduction of our debt outstanding, or alternately classified within other non-current assets if we have no borrowings drawn on our credit facility at the balance sheet date, and are amortized to interest expense over the scheduled maturity of the debt. Amortization expense of debt issuance costs was $ 198 , $ 152 and $ 318 , respectively, for the years ended 2021, 2020 and 2019. Remaining unamortized capitalized debt issuance costs were $ 656 and $ 736 at September 30, 2021, and 2020, respectively.
Revenue Recognition
Revenue is recognized from a contract with a customer when: (i) it has approval and commitment from both parties, (ii) the rights of the parties are identified, (iii) payment terms are identified, (iv) the contract has commercial substance, and (v) collectability of consideration is probable. We consider the start of a project to be when the above criteria have been met and we have written authorization from the customer to proceed.
We recognize revenue on project contracts over time using the percentage of completion method. Project contracts generally provide that customers accept completion of progress to date and compensate us for services rendered measured in terms of units installed, hours expended or some other measure of progress. We recognize revenue on both signed contracts and change orders. A discussion of our treatment of claims and unapproved change orders is described later in this section. Percentage of completion for construction contracts is measured principally by the percentage of costs incurred and accrued to date for each contract to the estimated total cost for each contract at completion. We generally consider contracts to be substantially complete upon departure from the work site and acceptance by the customer. Contract costs include all direct material, labor and insurance costs and those indirect costs related to contract performance, such as indirect labor, supplies, tools, repairs and depreciation costs. Changes in job performance, job
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conditions, estimated contract costs and profitability and final contract settlements can result in change orders under which the customer agrees to pay additional contract price. Revisions can also result in claims we might make against the customer to recover additional costs that have not been resolved through change orders with the customer. We do not recognize revenue or margin based on change orders or claims if it is probable such revenue will be reversed. The amount of revenue associated with unapproved change orders and claims was immaterial for the years ended September 30, 2021, 2020 and 2019. Provisions for total estimated losses on uncompleted contracts are made in the period in which such losses are determined. The balances billed but not paid by customers pursuant to retainage provisions in project contracts are typically due upon completion of the contracts and acceptance by the customer. Based on our experience, the retention balance at each balance sheet date will be collected within the subsequent fiscal year.
Certain divisions in the Residential and Infrastructure Solutions segments recognize revenue as of a point-in-time at the completion of the contract ("completed contract") because the duration of their contracts is short in nature. We recognize revenue on completed contracts when the project is complete and billable to the customer. Provisions for estimated losses on these contracts are recorded in the period such losses are determined.
Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Credit Losses
As described below under “Accounting Standards Recently Adopted”, we adopted the new accounting standard for measuring credit losses effective October 1, 2020. We record accounts receivable for all amounts billed and not collected and amounts for which we have an unconditional right to bill our customers. Additionally, we provide an allowance for credit losses based on historical company-specific uncollectable accounts, as well as current and expected market conditions. From time to time, we establish additional allowance for credit losses for financial asset balances with specific customers where collectability has been determined to be improbable based on specific facts and circumstances. Such allowances are established as deemed necessary in the period such determination is made. As is common in our industry, some of these receivables are in litigation or require us to exercise our contractual lien rights in order to collect. Our allowance for credit losses at September 30, 2021 and 2020 was $ 2,387 and $ 2,613 , respectively.
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Comprehensive income (loss) includes all changes in equity during a period except those resulting from investments by and distributions to stockholders.
Income Taxes
We follow the liability method of accounting for income taxes. Under this method, deferred income tax assets and liabilities are recorded for the future income tax consequences of temporary differences between the financial reporting and income tax bases of assets and liabilities, and are measured using enacted tax rates and laws.
We regularly evaluate valuation allowances established for deferred tax assets for which future realization is uncertain. We perform this evaluation on a quarterly basis. The estimation of required valuation allowances includes estimates of future taxable income. In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, we must consider whether it is more likely than not some portion, or all, of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. We consider all available evidence, both positive and negative, in determining whether a valuation allowance is required. At September 30, 2021, we concluded, based upon the assessment of positive and negative evidence, that it is more likely than not that the Company will generate sufficient taxable income within the applicable net operating loss ("NOL") carryforward periods to realize its net deferred tax assets of $ 19,009 . We considered the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income and tax planning strategies in making this assessment. If actual future taxable income is different from these estimates, our results could be affected.
We record reserves for income taxes related to certain tax positions when management considers it more likely than not that additional taxes may be due in excess of amounts reflected on income tax returns filed. When recording these reserves, we assume that taxing authorities have full knowledge of the position and all relevant facts. We continually review exposure to additional tax obligations, and as further information is known or events occur, changes in tax reserves may be recorded. To the extent interest and penalties may be assessed by taxing authorities on any underpayment of income tax, such amounts have been accrued and included in the provision for income taxes.
Risk Management
We retain the risk for workers’ compensation, employer’s liability, automobile liability, construction defects, general liability and employee group health claims, as well as pollution coverage, resulting from uninsured deductibles per accident or occurrence which are generally subject to annual aggregate limits. Our general liability program provides coverage for bodily injury and property damage. In many cases, we insure third parties, including general contractors, as additional insureds under our insurance policies. Losses are accrued based upon our known claims incurred and an estimate of claims incurred but not reported. Each year, we compile our historical data pertaining to the insurance experiences and actuarially develop the ultimate loss associated with our insurance
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programs other than pollution coverage for our Infrastructure Solutions segment. We believe that the actuarial valuation provides the best estimate of the ultimate losses to be expected under these programs.
The undiscounted ultimate losses of our workers’ compensation, auto and general liability insurance reserves at September 30, 2021 and 2020, were $ 3,266 and $ 3,886 , respectively. Based on historical payment patterns, we expect payments of undiscounted ultimate losses to be made as follows:
Year Ending September 30:
2022 $ 1,047
2023 714
2024 452
2025 285
2026 167
Thereafter 601
Total $ 3,266
We elect to discount the ultimate losses above to present value using an approximate risk-free rate over the average life of our insurance claims. For the years ended September 30, 2021 and 2020, the discount rate used was 1.0 percent and 0.3 percent, respectively. The present value of all insurance reserves for the workers’ compensation, auto and general liability recorded at September 30, 2021 and 2020 was $ 3,234 and $ 3,832 , respectively. Our undiscounted reserves for employee group health claims at September 30, 2021 and 2020 were $ 2,553 and $ 2,422 , respectively, and are anticipated to be resolved within the year ending September 30, 2022.
We had letters of credit totaling $ 4,327 outstanding at September 30, 2021 to collateralize certain of our high deductible insurance obligations.
Realization of Long-Lived Assets
We evaluate the recoverability of property and equipment and other long-lived assets as facts and circumstances indicate that any of those assets might be impaired. If an evaluation is required for our assets we plan to hold and use, the estimated future undiscounted cash flows associated with the asset are compared to the asset’s carrying amount to determine if an impairment of such property has occurred. The effect of any impairment would be to expense the difference between the fair value of such property and its carrying value. Estimated fair values are determined based on expected future cash flows discounted at a rate we believe incorporates the time value of money, the expectations about future cash flows and an appropriate risk premium.
For the years ended September 30, 2021 and 2019, no indicators of impairments were identified, and no impairment charges were recorded. At September 30, 2020, we performed an asset impairment test for all long-lived assets within our Commercial & Industrial segment and determined no impairment charge was necessary.
Risk Concentration
Financial instruments, which potentially subject us to concentrations of credit risk, consist principally of cash deposits and accounts receivable. Through delayed payment terms, we at times grant credit, usually without collateral, to our customers, who are generally large public companies, contractors and homebuilders throughout the United States. Consequently, we are subject to potential credit risk related to changes in business and economic factors throughout the United States, specifically within the construction, homebuilding and mission critical facility markets. However, we are entitled to payment for work performed and generally have certain lien rights in that work. Further, management believes that its contract acceptance, billing and collection policies are adequate to manage potential credit risk. We routinely maintain cash balances in financial institutions in excess of federally insured limits. We periodically assess the financial condition of these institutions where these funds are held and believe the credit risk is minimal. We maintain the majority of our cash and cash equivalents in money market mutual funds. There can be no assurance, however, that we will not be adversely affected by credit risks we face.
No single customer accounted for more than 10% of our consolidated revenues or accounts receivable for the years ended September 30, 2021, 2020 and 2019.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
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Our financial instruments consist of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and a loan agreement. We believe that the carrying value of financial instruments approximates their fair value due to their short-term nature. The carrying value of our debt approximates fair value, as debt incurs interest at a variable rate.
Deferred Compensation Plans
The Company maintains a rabbi trust to fund certain deferred compensation plans. The securities held by the trust are classified as trading securities. The investments are recorded at fair value and are classified as other non-current assets in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2021 and 2020. The changes in fair values are recorded as a component of other income (expense) in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss).
The corresponding deferred compensation liability is included in other non-current liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and changes in this obligation are recognized as adjustments to compensation expense in the period in which they are determined.
Noncontrolling Interest
In connection with our acquisitions of Edmonson Electric, LLC ("Edmonson") and Bayonet Plumbing, Heating & Air-Conditioning, LLC ("Bayonet") in fiscal 2021, NEXT Electric, LLC ("NEXT") in fiscal 2017, and STR Mechanical, LLC ("STR") in fiscal 2016, we acquired an 80 percent interest in each of the entities, with the remaining 20 percent interest in each such entity being retained by the respective third party sellers. The interests retained by those third party sellers are identified on our Consolidated Balance Sheets as noncontrolling interest, classified outside of permanent equity. Under the terms of each entity’s operating agreement, after five years from the date of the acquisition, we may elect to purchase, or the third party seller may require us to purchase, part or all of the remaining 20 percent interest in the applicable entity. The purchase price is variable, based on a multiple of earnings as defined in the operating agreements. Therefore, this noncontrolling interest is carried at the greater of the balance determined under Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 810 and the redemption amounts assuming the noncontrolling interests were redeemable at the balance sheet date. During the year ended September 30, 2021, we acquired the noncontrolling interest in STR for $ 1,188 . If all of the noncontrolling interests remaining outstanding at September 30, 2021 had been redeemable at that date, the redemption amount would have been $ 18,262 . For the year ended September 30, 2021, we recorded a decrease to Retained Earnings of $ 315 to increase the carrying amount of noncontrolling interest in NEXT and STR to their redemption amounts. For the year ended September 30, 2020, we recorded a decrease to Retained Earnings of $ 194 to increase the carrying amount of noncontrolling interest in NEXT to its redemption amount.
Leases
We enter into various contractual arrangements for the right to use facilities, vehicles and equipment. We evaluate whether each of these arrangements contains a lease and classify all identified leases as either operating or finance. If the arrangement is subsequently modified, we re-evaluate our classification. The lease term generally ranges from two to ten years for facilities and three to five years for vehicles and equipment. Our lease terms may include the exercise of renewal or termination options when it is reasonably certain these options will be exercised. Our lease agreements do not contain any material residual value guarantees or restrictive covenants.
Upon commencement of the lease, we recognize a lease liability and corresponding right-of-use ("ROU") asset for all leases with an initial term greater than twelve months. Lease liabilities represent the present value of our future lease payments over the expected lease term. As most of our leases do not provide an implicit rate, we generally use our incremental borrowing rate as the discount rate in calculating the present value of the lease payments. The incremental borrowing rate is determined by identifying a synthetic credit rating for the consolidated company, where treasury functions are centrally managed, and adjusting the interest rates from associated indexes for differences in credit risk and interest rate risk. We have elected to combine the lease and nonlease components in the recognition of our lease liabilities across all classes of underlying assets. ROU assets represent our right to control the use of the leased asset during the lease and are recognized in an amount equal to the lease liability with adjustments for prepaid or accrued rent, lease incentives or unamortized initial direct costs. Costs associated with ROU assets are recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. Our lease assets are tested for impairment in the same manner as long-lived assets used in operations.
Certain lease contracts include obligations to pay for other services, such as operations and maintenance. Where the costs of these services can be identified as fixed or fixed-in-substance, the costs are included as part of the future lease payments. If the cost is not fixed at the inception of the lease, the cost is recorded as a variable cost in the period incurred.
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Accounting Standards Not Yet Adopted
In December 2019, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standard Update No. 2019-12, “Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes.” This standard simplifies the accounting for income taxes by eliminating certain exceptions to the guidance in Topic 740 related to the approach for intraperiod tax allocation, the methodology for calculating income taxes in an interim period and the recognition of deferred tax liabilities for outside basis differences. The standard also simplifies aspects of the accounting for franchise taxes and enacted changes in tax laws or rates and clarifies the accounting for transactions that result in a step-up in the tax basis of goodwill. This update is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020 and for interim periods within that year. Early adoption is permitted. We adopted this standard as of October 1, 2021, and do not expect it to have a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Accounting Standards Recently Adopted
In June 2016, FASB issued Accounting Standard Update No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (“ASU 2016-13”), which requires companies to consider historical experiences, current market conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts in the measurement of expected credit losses, with further clarifications made in April 2019 and May 2019 with the issuances of Accounting Standard Updates No. 2019-04 and 2019-05. This update is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019 and for interim periods within those fiscal years. We adopted this standard on October 1, 2020, using a modified retrospective transition method through a cumulative-effect adjustment to beginning retained earnings in the period of adoption. As a result, we recorded an increase in the Allowance for Credit Losses of $ 284 , an increase to Deferred Tax Assets of $ 70 , and a decrease to Retained Earnings of $ 214 .
ASU 2016-13 requires the recognition of expected credit losses on financial assets measured at amortized cost basis. In calculating our expected credit losses, we considered trade receivables, retainage, and costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings, all of which constitute a homogenous portfolio, and therefore, to measure the expected credit loss, they have been grouped together.
We have elected to calculate an expected credit loss based on loss rates from historical data. Each segment groups financial assets with similar risk characteristics and collectively assesses the expected credit losses. If an individual asset experiences credit deterioration to the extent the credit risk is no longer characteristic of the other assets in the group, it will be analyzed individually. The loss rates for our portfolios include our history of credit loss expense, the aging of our receivables, our expectation of payments and adjustment for forward-looking factors specific to the macroeconomic trends in the U.S. construction market.
Activity in our allowance for credit losses consists of the following:
Year Ended September 30,
2021 2020
Balance at beginning of period $ 2,613 $ 1,184
Additions to costs and expenses, inclusive of ASU 2016-13 adoption adjustment 1,216 1,864
Deductions for uncollectible receivables written off, net of recoveries ( 1,442 ) ( 435 )
Balance at end of period $ 2,387 $ 2,613
Other than trade receivables due in one year or less, we do not have any other financial assets that are past due or are on non-accrual status.
In August 2018, the FASB issued Accounting Standard Update No. 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement Disclosure Framework (“ASU 2018-13”), to modify certain disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. Under the new guidance, registrants will need to disclose weighted average information for significant unobservable inputs for all Level 3 fair value measurements. The guidance does not specify how entities should calculate the weighted average, but requires them to explain their calculation. The new guidance also requires disclosing the changes in unrealized gains and losses for the period included in other comprehensive income for recurring Level 3 fair value measurements of instruments held at the end of the reporting period. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019 and for interim periods within those fiscal years. We adopted this standard on October 1, 2020, with no impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements.
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In February 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standard Update No. 2016-02, Leases (“ASU 2016-02”). Under ASU 2016-02, lessees need to recognize a ROU asset and a lease liability on their balance sheets for all leases, other than those that meet the definition of a short-term lease. For income statement purposes, leases must be classified as either operating or finance. Operating leases result in straight-line expense, while finance leases are accounted for similar to capital leases under the previous lease accounting standard. We adopted ASU 2016-02 on October 1, 2019 using a modified retrospective transition approach. Using the optional transition method allowed under Accounting Standard Update No. 2018-11, prior period amounts were not adjusted retrospectively and continue to be reported using the previous accounting standards in effect for the period presented. We elected to utilize all of the available practical expedients with the exception of the practical expedient permitting the use of hindsight when determining the lease term and assessing impairment of ROU assets. Therefore, we did not reassess whether any of our existing or expired contracts contained leases or the classification of or initial direct costs included in our existing or expired leases.
The adoption of ASU 2016-02 resulted in the recognition of ROU assets of approximately $ 32,434 and operating lease liabilities of approximately $ 32,237 on our Consolidated Balance Sheets at the adoption date. The difference between the ROU assets and lease liabilities was primarily due to previously accrued rent expense relating to periods prior to October 1, 2019. The adoption did not have a significant impact on our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income or Cash Flows. See Note 9, “Leases” for additional discussion of our lease accounting policies and expanded disclosures.
In June 2018, the FASB issued Accounting Standard Update No. 2018-07, Compensation—Stock Compensation (“ASU 2018-07”), to simplify the accounting for share-based payments to nonemployees by aligning it with the accounting for share-based payments for employees, with certain exceptions. Under the new guidance, the cost for nonemployee awards may be lower and less volatile than under current GAAP because the measurement generally will occur earlier and will be fixed at the grant date. This update was adopted as of October 1, 2019 with no impact to our financial statements.
3. CONTROLLING SHAREHOLDER
Tontine Associates, L.L.C. ("Tontine Associates"), together with its affiliates (collectively, "Tontine") is the Company's controlling shareholder, owning approximately 56 percent of the Company’s outstanding common stock as of December 1, 2021, based on Form 4 filed by Tontine with the SEC on November 18, 2021. Accordingly, Tontine has the ability to exercise significant control over our affairs, including the election of directors and most actions requiring the approval of shareholders.
While Tontine is subject to certain restrictions under federal securities laws on sales of its shares as an affiliate, the Company has filed a shelf registration statement to register all of the shares of IES common stock owned by Tontine at the time of registration. As long as the shelf registration statement remains effective and the Company remains eligible to use it, Tontine has the ability to resell any or all of its registered shares from time to time in one or more offerings, as described in the shelf registration statement and in any prospectus supplement filed in connection with an offering pursuant to the shelf registration statement.
Should Tontine sell or otherwise dispose of all or a portion of its position in IES, a change in ownership of IES could occur. A change in ownership, as defined by Internal Revenue Code Section 382, could reduce the availability of the Company’s NOLs for federal and state income tax purposes. Furthermore, a change of control would trigger the change of control provisions in a number of our material agreements, including our credit agreement, bonding agreements with our sureties and our executive severance plan. The Company previously had in place a tax benefit protection plan (the “NOL Rights Plan”), designed to deter an acquisition of the Company's stock in excess of a threshold amount that could trigger a change in ownership within the meaning of Internal Revenue Code Section 382. However, on May 7, 2021, we amended the NOL Rights Plan, accelerating the expiration of the plan from December 31, 2021 to May 21, 2021. As a result of this amendment, the NOL Rights Plan has now expired.
Jeffrey L. Gendell was appointed as Chief Executive Officer of the Company effective October 1, 2020, having served as the Company's Interim Chief Executive Officer since July 31, 2020. Mr. Gendell also serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors, a position he has held since November 2016. He is the managing member and founder of Tontine, and the brother of David B. Gendell, who has served as a member of our Board of Directors since February 2012, and who previously served as Interim Director of Operations from November 2017 to January 2019, as Vice Chairman of the Board from November 2016 to November 2017 and as Chairman of the Board from January 2015 to November 2016. David B. Gendell was an employee of Tontine from 2004 until December 31, 2017.
The Company is party to a sublease agreement with Tontine Associates for corporate office space in Greenwich, Connecticut. The sublease extends through February 27, 2023, with monthly payments due in the amount of approximately $ 8 . Payments by the Company are at a rate consistent with that paid by Tontine Associates to its landlord.
On December 6, 2018, the Company entered into a Board Observer Letter Agreement (the "Observer Agreement") with Tontine Associates, in order to assist Tontine in managing its investment in the Company. Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the
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Observer Agreement, the Company granted Tontine the right, at any time that Tontine holds at least 20% of the outstanding common stock of the Company, to appoint a representative to serve as an observer to the Board (the “Board Observer”). The Board Observer, who must be reasonably acceptable to those members of the Board who are not affiliates of Tontine, shall have no voting rights or other decision making authority. Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Observer Agreement, so long as Tontine has the right to appoint a Board Observer, the Board Observer will have the right to attend and participate in meetings of the Board and the committees thereof, subject to confidentiality requirements, and to receive reimbursement for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in his or her capacity as a Board Observer and such rights to coverage under the Company’s directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policy as are available to the Company’s directors.
4. REVENUE RECOGNITION
Contracts
Our revenue is derived from contracts with customers, and we determine the appropriate accounting treatment for each contract at its inception. Our contracts primarily relate to electrical and mechanical contracting services, technology infrastructure products and services, and electro-mechanical solutions for industrial operations. Revenue is earned based upon an agreed fixed price or actual costs incurred plus an agreed upon percentage.
We account for a contract when: (i) it has approval and commitment from both parties, (ii) the rights of the parties are identified, (iii) payment terms are identified, (iv) the contract has commercial substance, and (v) collectability of consideration is probable. We consider the start of a project to be when the above criteria have been met and we have written authorization from the customer to proceed.
Performance Obligations
A performance obligation is a promise in a contract to transfer a distinct good or service to the customer. A contract’s transaction price is allocated to each distinct performance obligation and recognized as revenue when, or as, the performance obligation is satisfied.
We recognize revenue over time for the majority of the services we perform as (i) control continuously transfers to the customer as work progresses at a project location controlled by the customer and (ii) we have the right to bill the customer as costs are incurred. Within our Infrastructure Solutions segment, we often perform work inside our own facilities, where control does not continuously transfer to the customer as work progresses. In such cases, we evaluate whether we have the right to bill the customer as costs are incurred. Such assessment involves an evaluation of contractual termination clauses. Where we have a contractual right to payment for work performed to date, we recognize revenue over time. If we do not have such a right, we recognize revenue upon completion of the contract, when control of the work transfers to the customer.
For fixed price arrangements, we use the percentage of completion method of accounting under which revenue recognized is measured principally by the costs incurred and accrued to date for each contract as a percentage of the estimated total cost for each contract at completion. Contract costs include all direct material, labor and indirect costs related to contract performance. Changes in job performance, job conditions, estimated contract costs and profitability and final contract settlements may result in revisions to costs and income, and the effects of these revisions are recognized in the period in which the revisions are determined. Provisions for estimated losses on uncompleted contracts are made in the period in which such losses are determined. This measurement and comparison process requires updates to the estimate of total costs to complete the contract, and these updates may include subjective assessments and judgments.
Variable Consideration
The transaction price for our contracts may include variable consideration, which includes changes to transaction price for approved and unapproved change orders, claims and incentives. Change orders, claims and incentives are generally not distinct from the existing contract due to the significant integration service provided in the context of the contract and are accounted for as a modification of the existing contract and performance obligation. We estimate variable consideration for a performance obligation at the probability weighted value we expect to receive (or the most probable amount we expect to incur in the case of liquidated damages, if any), utilizing estimation methods that best predict the amount of consideration to which we will be entitled (or will be incurred in the case of liquidated damages, if any). We include variable consideration in the estimated transaction price to the extent it is probable that a significant reversal of cumulative revenue recognized will not occur or when the uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is resolved. Our estimates of variable consideration and determination of whether to include estimated amounts in transaction price are based largely on an assessment of our anticipated performance and all information (historical, current and forecasted) that is reasonably available to us. The effect of variable consideration on the transaction price of a performance obligation is recognized as an adjustment to revenue on a cumulative catch-up basis. To the extent unapproved change orders and claims reflected in transaction price (or accounted for as a reduction of the transaction price in the case of liquidated damages) are not resolved in our favor, or to the
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extent incentives reflected in transaction price are not earned, there could be reductions in, or reversals of, previously recognized revenue.
Disaggregation of Revenue
We disaggregate our revenue from contracts with customers by activity and contract type, as these categories reflect how the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of our revenue and cash flows are affected by economic factors. Our consolidated 2021, 2020, and 2019 revenue was derived from the following activities. See details in the following tables:
Year Ended September 30,
2021 2020 2019
Communications $ 445,968 $ 395,141 $ 321,246
Residential
Single-family 454,449 239,140 212,358
Multi-family and Other 232,898 172,650 100,978
Total Residential 687,347 411,790 313,336
Infrastructure Solutions
Industrial Services 44,427 40,701 48,948
Custom Power Solutions 102,553 87,678 87,842
Total Infrastructure Solutions 146,980 128,379 136,790
Commercial & Industrial 256,198 255,546 305,624
Total Revenue $ 1,536,493 $ 1,190,856 $ 1,076,996
Year Ended September 30, 2021
Communications Residential Infrastructure Solutions Commercial & Industrial Total
Fixed-price $ 327,496 $ 687,347 $ 139,532 $ 243,546 $ 1,397,921
Time-and-material 118,472 — 7,448 12,652 138,572
Total revenue $ 445,968 $ 687,347 $ 146,980 $ 256,198 $ 1,536,493
Year Ended September 30, 2020
Communications Residential Infrastructure Solutions Commercial & Industrial Total
Fixed-price $ 309,567 $ 411,790 $ 121,922 $ 241,864 $ 1,085,143
Time-and-material 85,574 — 6,457 13,682 105,713
Total revenue $ 395,141 $ 411,790 $ 128,379 $ 255,546 $ 1,190,856
Year Ended September 30, 2019
Communications Residential Infrastructure Solutions Commercial & Industrial Total
Fixed-price $ 229,143 $ 313,336 $ 129,096 $ 286,319 $ 957,894
Time-and-material 92,103 — 7,694 19,305 119,102
Total revenue $ 321,246 $ 313,336 $ 136,790 $ 305,624 $ 1,076,996
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Accounts Receivable
Accounts receivable include amounts which we have billed or have an unconditional right to bill our customers. As of September 30, 2021, accounts receivable included $ 20,445 of unbilled receivables for which we have an unconditional right to bill.
Contract Assets and Liabilities
Project contracts typically provide for a schedule of billings on percentage of completion of specific tasks inherent in the fulfillment of our performance obligation(s). The schedules for such billings usually do not precisely match the schedule on which costs are incurred. As a result, contract revenue recognized in the statement of operations can and usually does differ from amounts that can be billed to the customer at any point during the contract. Amounts by which cumulative contract revenue recognized on a contract as of a given date exceeds cumulative billings and unbilled receivables to the customer under the contract are reflected as a current asset in our Consolidated Balance Sheets under the caption “Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings”. Amounts by which cumulative billings to the customer under a contract as of a given date exceed cumulative contract revenue recognized are reflected as a current liability in our Consolidated Balance Sheets under the caption “Billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings”.
During the years ended September 30, 2021 and 2020, we recognized revenue of $ 47,906 and $ 34,035 related to our contract liabilities at October 1, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
We did not have any impairment losses recognized on our receivables or contract assets for the years ended September 30, 2021, 2020, or 2019.
Remaining Performance Obligations
Remaining performance obligations represent the unrecognized revenue value of our contract commitments. New awards represent the total expected revenue value of new contract commitments undertaken during a given period, as well as additions to the scope of existing contract commitments. Our new performance obligations vary significantly each reporting period based on the timing of our major new contract commitments. At September 30, 2021, we had remaining performance obligations of $ 713,274 . The Company expects to recognize revenue on approximately $ 650,500 of the remaining performance obligations over the next 12 months, with the remaining recognized thereafter.
For the year ended September 30, 2021, net revenue recognized from our performance obligations satisfied in previous periods was not material.
5. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Property and equipment consists of the following:
Estimated Useful Lives in Years Year Ended September 30,
2021 2020
Land N/A $ 1,436 $ 1,436
Buildings and improvements 5 - 20 15,445 14,378
Machinery and equipment 3 - 10 48,443 32,695
Information systems 2 - 8 8,555 8,496
Furniture and fixtures 5 - 7 1,571 1,746
$ 75,450 $ 58,751
Less-Accumulated depreciation ( 41,308 ) ( 34,544 )
Construction in progress 1,312 382
Property and equipment, net $ 35,454 $ 24,589
Depreciation expense was $ 8,090 , $ 6,084 and $ 5,607 , respectively, for the years ended September 30, 2021, 2020 and 2019.
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6. PER SHARE INFORMATION
Basic earnings per share is calculated as income (loss) available to common stockholders, divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. If the effect is dilutive, participating securities are included in the computation of basic earnings per share. Our participating securities do not have a contractual obligation to share in the losses in any given period. As a result, these participating securities will not be allocated any losses in the periods of net losses, but will be allocated income in the periods of net income using the two-class method.
The following table reconciles the components of the basic and diluted earnings per share for the years ended September 30, 2021, 2020 and 2019:
Year Ended September 30,
2021 2020 2019
Numerator:
Net income attributable to IES Holdings, Inc. $ 66,658 $ 41,599 $ 33,206
Increase in noncontrolling interest ( 315 ) ( 194 ) —
Net income attributable to restricted shareholders of IES Holdings, Inc. ( 56 ) ( 575 ) ( 256 )
Net income attributable to common shareholders of IES Holdings, Inc. $ 66,287 $ 40,830 $ 32,950
Denominator:
Weighted average common shares outstanding — basic 20,790,307 20,795,892 21,082,012
Effect of dilutive stock options and non-vested securities 296,125 296,518 233,233
Weighted average common and common equivalent shares outstanding — diluted 21,086,432 21,092,410 21,315,245
Earnings per share attributable to common shareholders of IES Holdings, Inc.:
Basic $ 3.19 $ 1.96 $ 1.56
Diluted $ 3.15 $ 1.94 $ 1.55
For the years ended September 30, 2021, 2020, and 2019, the average price of our common shares exceeded the exercise price of outstanding options; therefore, outstanding stock options were included in the computation of diluted earnings per share.
7. DETAIL OF CERTAIN BALANCE SHEET ACCOUNTS
Accounts payable and accrued expenses consist of the following:
Year Ended September 30,
2021 2020
Accounts payable, trade $ 136,967 $ 93,315
Accrued compensation and benefits 61,109 53,933
Accrued insurance liabilities 5,787 6,254
Current operating lease liabilities 13,973 11,056
Other accrued expenses 31,278 22,152
$ 249,114 $ 186,710
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Other non-current assets are comprised of the following:
Year Ended September 30,
2021 2020
Executive Savings Plan assets $ 937 $ 766
Securities and equity investments 10 —
Right of use asset - finance leases 3,927 1,600
Other 2,175 3,414
Total $ 7,049 $ 5,780
8. DEBT
Debt consists of the following:
Year Ended September 30,
2021 2020
Revolving loan (long-term debt) $ 40,339 $ 12
Debt issuance costs (1)
( 656 ) —
Other long-term debt 63 205
Total debt $ 39,746 $ 217
(1) At September 30, 2020, the remaining unamortized debt issuance costs of $ 736 , were reclassified to Other non-current assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
At September 30, 2021, we had $ 40,339 of outstanding borrowings, $ 4,527 in outstanding letters of credit and $ 55,134 of availability under our revolving credit facility with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. ("Wells Fargo"). Following the amendment discussed below of our Prior Credit Agreement (as defined below) on December 2, 2021, all amounts outstanding under our revolving credit facility are due and payable in September 2026, upon expiration of our revolving credit facility, and all amounts described as available are available without triggering our financial covenants under the Amended Credit Agreement (as defined below).
The interest rate on outstanding borrowings under our revolving credit facility was 1.38 % at September 30, 2021. For the years ended September 30, 2021, 2020 and 2019, we incurred interest expense of $ 962 , $ 777 and $ 1,857 , respectively.
The Revolving Credit Facility
We maintain a revolving credit facility pursuant to an agreement with Wells Fargo (as amended, the "Prior Credit Agreement"). On December 2, 2021, we amended the Prior Credit Agreement (the "Ninth Amendment" and the Prior Credit Agreement as so amended, the "Amended Credit Agreement") to, among other things, increase the size of the facility from $ 100,000 to $ 125,000 , reduce our required minimum Liquidity (as defined in the Amended Credit Agreement) from $ 20,000 to $ 12,500 , and extend the maturity date from September 30, 2024 to September 30, 2026. Please see Note 20 - "Subsequent Events" for further information about the terms of the Ninth Amendment.
Terms of the Prior Credit Agreement
The Prior Credit Agreement contains customary affirmative, negative and financial covenants, as well as customary events of default.
As of September 30, 2021, we were in compliance with the financial covenants in effect as of that date under the Prior Credit Agreement, requiring that we maintain:
• a Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio (as defined in the Prior Credit Agreement), measured quarterly on a trailing four-quarter basis at the end of each quarter, of at least 1.1 to 1.0; and
• minimum Liquidity of at least twenty percent (20%) of the Maximum Revolver Amount (as defined in the Prior Credit Agreement), or $20,000; with, for purposes of this covenant, at least fifty percent (50%) of our Liquidity comprised of Excess Availability (as defined in the Prior Credit Agreement).
At September 30, 2021, our Liquidity was $ 78,239 , our Excess Availability was $ 55,134 (or greater than 50% of minimum Liquidity), and our Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio was 12.0 :1.0.
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There was no change to the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio covenant under the Ninth Amendment. The Ninth Amendment reduced the minimum Liquidity requirement from twenty percent (20%) to ten percent (10%) of the Maximum Revolver Amount, or $12,500. If in the future our Liquidity falls below the amount required by the Amended Credit Agreement (or Excess Availability falls below 50% of our minimum Liquidity), our Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio is less than 1.1:1.0, or if we otherwise fail to perform or otherwise comply with certain of our covenants or other agreements under the Amended Credit Agreement, it would result in an event of default under the Amended Credit Agreement, which could result in some or all of any indebtedness we may take on becoming immediately due and payable.
9. LEASES
We enter into various contractual arrangements for the right to use facilities, vehicles and equipment. The lease term generally ranges from two to ten years for facilities and three to five years for vehicles and equipment. Our lease terms may include the exercise of renewal or termination options when it is reasonably certain these options will be exercised. Our lease agreements do not contain any material residual value guarantees or restrictive covenants.
Current operating and finance liabilities of $ 13,973 and $ 1,033 , respectively, were included in " Accounts payable and accrued expenses " in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2021. Non-current finance lease liabilities and finance lease right-of-use assets were included in the " Other non-current liabilities " and " Other non-current assets ", respectively, in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
The maturities of our lease liabilities as of September 30, 2021, are as follows:
Operating Leases Finance Leases Total
2022 $ 3,840 $ 266 $ 4,106
2023 13,481 1,055 14,536
2024 9,466 1,043 10,509
2025 6,430 999 7,429
2026 4,632 715 5,347
Thereafter 9,411 181 9,592
Total undiscounted lease payments $ 47,260 $ 4,259 $ 51,519
Less: imputed interest 4,637 354 4,991
Present value of lease liabilities $ 42,623 $ 3,905 $ 46,528
The total future undiscounted cash flows related to lease agreements committed to but not yet commenced as of September 30, 2021, is $ 7,296 .
Lease cost recognized in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income is summarized as follows:
Year Ended September 30,
2021 2020
Operating lease cost $ 13,405 $ 12,910
Finance lease cost
Amortization of lease assets 634 203
Interest on lease liabilities 119 47
Finance lease cost 753 250
Short-term lease cost 1,575 1,163
Variable lease cost 1,286 827
Total lease cost $ 17,019 $ 15,150
Other information about lease amounts recognized in our Consolidated Financial Statements is summarized as follows:
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Year Ended September 30,
2021 2020
Operating cash flows used for operating leases $ 15,011 $ 12,934
Operating cash flows used for finance leases 119 47
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities 24,606 10,640
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new finance lease liabilities 2,962 1,803
Year Ended September 30,
2021 2020
Weighted-average remaining lease term - operating leases 5.0 years 4.3 years
Weighted-average remaining lease term - finance leases 4.2 years 4.4 years
Weighted-average discount rate - operating leases 3.7 % 3.9 %
Weighted-average discount rate - finance leases 4.3 % 5.1 %
For a discussion of leases with certain related parties which are included above, see Note 13, “Related-Party Transactions.”
Rent expense was $ 14,980 , $ 14,073 and $ 10,553 for the years ended September 30, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
10. INCOME TAXES
Federal and state income tax provisions are as follows:
Year Ended September 30,
2021 2020 2019
Federal:
Current $ 2 $ ( 39 ) $ ( 1,330 )
Deferred 11,678 9,317 5,908
State:
Current 4,505 3,657 2,312
Deferred 46 ( 4,195 ) ( 227 )
Total provision for income taxes $ 16,231 $ 8,740 $ 6,663
Actual income tax expense differs from income tax expense computed by applying the U.S. federal statutory corporate rate to income (loss) before income taxes as follows:
Year Ended September 30,
2021 2020 2019
Provision at the federal statutory rate $ 17,830 $ 10,352 $ 8,430
Increase resulting from:
Non-deductible expenses 658 1,974 1,277
State income taxes, net of federal deduction 3,876 2,662 2,009
Other — 261 —
Decrease resulting from:
Share-based compensation ( 715 ) ( 75 ) ( 556 )
Change in valuation allowance ( 118 ) ( 3,334 ) ( 83 )
Contingent tax liabilities ( 2,898 ) ( 1,313 ) ( 3,967 )
Component 2 goodwill utilization ( 2,241 ) ( 1,787 ) ( 144 )
Other ( 161 ) — ( 303 )
Total provision for income taxes $ 16,231 $ 8,740 $ 6,663
Deferred income tax provisions result from temporary differences in the recognition of income and expenses for financial reporting purposes and for income tax purposes. The income tax effects of these temporary differences, representing deferred income tax assets and liabilities, result principally from the following:
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Year Ended September 30,
2021 2020
Deferred income tax assets:
Allowance for credit losses $ 541 $ 592
Accrued expenses 17,134 14,619
Net operating loss carryforward 6,445 22,623
Various reserves 1,285 1,764
Equity losses in affiliate 210 210
Share-based compensation 1,079 897
Capital loss carryforward 1 74
Lease asset 9,634 7,681
Other 2,914 2,444
Subtotal 39,243 50,904
Less valuation allowance 592 710
Total deferred income tax assets 38,651 50,194
Deferred income tax liabilities:
Property and equipment 509 517
Intangible assets 8,765 7,926
Lease liability 9,615 7,677
Other 753 271
Total deferred income tax liabilities 19,642 16,391
Net deferred income tax assets $ 19,009 $ 33,803
In fiscal 2021 and 2020, the valuation allowance on our deferred tax assets decreased by $ 118 and $ 3,334 , respectively, which is included in “Provision (benefit) for income taxes” in our Consolidated Comprehensive Income Statement.
As of September 30, 2021, we had available approximately $ 120,248 of federal net tax operating loss carry forward for federal income tax purposes, including $ 103,681 from net operating losses on which no tax benefit has been recognized and has not been recorded as a deferred tax asset. This carry forward, which may provide future tax benefits, will begin to expire in 2029. As of September 30, 2021, we had available approximately $ 61,396 state net tax operating loss carry forwards, including $ 5,398 from net operating losses on which no tax benefit has been recognized and has not been recorded as a deferred tax asset. The significant majority of these carry forwards, which may provide future tax benefits, will not begin to expire until 2026. We have provided valuation allowances on all net operating losses where it is determined it is more likely than not that they will expire without being utilized.
In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets at September 30, 2021, we considered whether it was more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Our realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which these temporary differences become deductible. As a result, we have recorded a net deferred tax asset of $ 19,009 on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. We will continue to evaluate the appropriateness of our remaining deferred tax assets and need for valuation allowances on a quarterly basis.
As a result of a 2006 reorganization and related adjustment to the book basis in goodwill, we have tax basis in excess of book basis in amortizable goodwill of approximately $ 3,869 . The tax basis in amortizable goodwill in excess of book basis is not reflected as a deferred tax asset. To the extent the amortization of the excess tax basis results in a cash tax benefit, the benefit will first go to reduce goodwill, then other long-term intangible assets, and then tax expense.
GAAP requires financial statement reporting of the expected future tax consequences of uncertain tax return reporting positions on the presumption that all relevant tax authorities possess full knowledge of those tax reporting positions, as well as all of the pertinent facts and circumstances, but it prohibits discounting of any of the related tax effects for the time value of money. The evaluation of a tax position is a two-step process. The first step is the recognition process to determine if it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination by the appropriate taxing authority, based on the technical merits of the position. The second step is a measurement process whereby a tax position that meets the more likely than not recognition threshold is calculated to determine the amount of benefit/expense to recognize in the financial statements. The tax position is measured at the largest amount of benefit/expense that is more likely than not of being realized upon ultimate settlement.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of unrecognized tax benefit is as follows:
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Year Ended September 30,
2021 2020
Balance at beginning of period $ 24,861 $ 26,294
Additions for position related to current year 59 111
Additions for positions of prior years 20 29
Reduction resulting from the lapse of the applicable statutes of limitations 3,061 1,573
Balance at end of period $ 21,879 $ 24,861
As of September 30, 2021 and 2020, $ 21,879 and $ 24,861 , respectively, of unrecognized tax benefits would result in a decrease in the provision for income tax expense. We anticipate that approximately $ 159 in liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits, including accrued interest, primarily from net operating losses on which no tax benefit has been recognized, may be reversed in the next twelve months. The reversal is predominately due to the expiration of the statutes of limitation for unrecognized tax benefits.
We had approximately $ 50 and $ 55 accrued for the payment of interest and penalties at September 30, 2021, and 2020, respectively. We recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as part of the provision for income taxes.
The tax years ended September 30, 2018, and forward are subject to federal audit as are tax years prior to September 30, 2018, to the extent of unutilized net operating losses generated in those years. The tax years ended September 30, 2017, and forward are subject to state audits as are tax years prior to September 30, 2017, to the extent of unutilized net operating losses generated in those years.
11. OPERATING SEGMENTS
We manage and measure performance of our business in four distinct operating segments: Communications, Residential, Infrastructure Solutions and Commercial & Industrial. These segments are reflective of how the Company’s Chief Operating Decision Maker (“CODM”) reviews operating results for the purposes of allocating resources and assessing performance. The Company’s CODM is its Chief Executive Officer.
Transactions between segments, if any, are eliminated in consolidation. Our corporate office provides general and administrative services, as well as support services, to our four operating segments. Management allocates certain shared costs among segments for selling, general and administrative expenses and depreciation expense.
Segment information for the years ended September 30, 2021, 2020 and 2019 is as follows:
Year Ended September 30, 2021
Communications Residential Infrastructure Solutions Commercial & Industrial Corporate Total
Revenues $ 445,968 $ 687,347 $ 146,980 $ 256,198 $ — $ 1,536,493
Cost of services 361,197 553,546 106,048 227,704 — 1,248,495
Gross profit 84,771 133,801 40,932 28,494 — 287,998
Selling, general and administrative 41,373 92,761 23,966 28,172 15,979 202,251
Contingent consideration — 211 — — — 211
Loss (gain) on sale of assets ( 4 ) 86 ( 10 ) ( 92 ) ( 27 ) ( 47 )
Income (loss) from operations $ 43,402 $ 40,743 $ 16,976 $ 414 $ ( 15,952 ) $ 85,583
Other data:
Depreciation and amortization expense $ 1,394 $ 11,490 $ 6,170 $ 2,709 $ 151 $ 21,914
Capital expenditures $ 963 $ 2,829 $ 2,067 $ 1,453 $ 89 $ 7,401
Total assets $ 164,699 $ 329,691 $ 137,628 $ 87,577 $ 47,027 $ 766,622
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Year Ended September 30, 2020
Communications Residential Infrastructure Solutions Commercial & Industrial Corporate Total
Revenues $ 395,141 $ 411,790 $ 128,379 $ 255,546 $ — $ 1,190,856
Cost of services 317,013 318,034 93,358 234,492 — 962,897
Gross profit 78,128 93,756 35,021 21,054 — 227,959
Selling, general and administrative 37,674 63,668 20,418 32,128 17,023 170,911
Goodwill impairment expense — — — 6,976 — 6,976
Contingent consideration — — — ( 11 ) — ( 11 )
Loss (gain) on sale of assets 8 2 35 ( 45 ) — —
Income (loss) from operations $ 40,446 $ 30,086 $ 14,568 $ ( 17,994 ) $ ( 17,023 ) $ 50,083
Other data:
Depreciation and amortization expense $ 1,351 $ 2,276 $ 6,020 $ 2,768 $ 93 $ 12,508
Capital expenditures $ 830 $ 1,459 $ 795 $ 1,362 $ 299 $ 4,745
Total assets $ 154,808 $ 110,998 $ 124,640 $ 68,318 $ 101,764 $ 560,528
Year Ended September 30, 2019
Communications Residential Infrastructure Solutions Commercial & Industrial Corporate Total
Revenues $ 321,246 $ 313,336 $ 136,790 $ 305,624 $ — $ 1,076,996
Cost of services 264,746 248,562 105,863 275,722 — 894,893
Gross profit 56,500 64,774 30,927 29,902 — 182,103
Selling, general and administrative 31,850 46,864 18,664 27,815 15,382 140,575
Contingent consideration ( 97 ) — ( 277 ) — — ( 374 )
Loss (gain) on sale of assets ( 6 ) ( 17 ) 105 ( 30 ) — 52
Income (loss) from operations $ 24,753 $ 17,927 $ 12,435 $ 2,117 $ ( 15,382 ) $ 41,850
Other data:
Depreciation and amortization expense $ 1,513 $ 852 $ 4,528 $ 2,563 $ 101 $ 9,557
Capital expenditures $ 973 $ 1,412 $ 1,377 $ 2,402 $ 136 $ 6,300
Total assets $ 109,263 $ 63,903 $ 116,867 $ 82,050 $ 73,175 $ 445,258
12. STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Equity Incentive Plan
The Company’s 2006 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended and restated (the “Equity Incentive Plan”), provides for grants of stock options as well as grants of stock, including restricted stock. Approximately 3.0 million shares of common stock are authorized for issuance under the Equity Incentive Plan, of which approximately 817,452 shares were available for issuance at September 30, 2021.
We measure and record compensation expense for all share-based payment awards based on the fair value of the awards granted at the date of grant. The fair value of restricted stock awards and phantom stock unit awards is determined based on the number of shares granted and the closing price of IES’s common stock on the date of grant. For awards vesting upon achievement of a market condition, the likelihood of achieving that market condition is considered in determining the fair value of the grant, which we expense ratably over the vesting period. For awards vesting upon achievement of a performance condition, we record expense based on the grant date fair value when it becomes probable the performance condition will be achieved. Forfeitures are recorded in the period in which they occur. The resulting compensation expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period, which is generally the vesting period.
Stock Repurchase Program
In 2015, our Board authorized a stock repurchase program for the purchase from time to time of up to 1.5 million shares of the Company’s common stock, and on May 2, 2019, our Board authorized the repurchase from time to time of an additional 1.0 million
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shares of the Company's common stock under the stock repurchase program. Share purchases are made for cash in open market transactions at prevailing market prices or in privately negotiated transactions or otherwise. The timing and amount of purchases under the program are determined based upon prevailing market conditions, our liquidity requirements, contractual restrictions and other factors. All or part of the repurchases may be implemented under a Rule 10b5-1 trading plan, which allows repurchases under predetermined terms at times when the Company might otherwise be prevented from purchasing under insider trading laws or because of self-imposed blackout periods. The program does not require the Company to purchase any specific number of shares and may be modified, suspended or reinstated at any time at the Company’s discretion and without notice.
We repurchased 124,205 shares of our common stock during the year ended September 30, 2021, in open market transactions at an average price of $ 44.40 per share.
We repurchased 263,160 shares of our common stock during the year ended September 30, 2020, in open market transactions at an average price of $ 23.29 per share.
Treasury Stock
During the year ended September 30, 2021, we issued 140,280 shares of common stock from treasury and repurchased 32,323 shares of common stock from our employees to satisfy statutory tax withholding requirements upon the vesting of certain performance phantom stock units under the Equity Incentive Plan. We also repurchased 124,205 shares of common stock on the open market pursuant to our stock repurchase program, and 13,996 shares were forfeited by former employees and returned to treasury stock. During the year ended September 30, 2021, we issued 380 unrestricted shares of common stock from treasury to members of our Board of Directors as part of their overall compensation.
During the year ended September 30, 2020, we issued 113,408 shares of common stock from treasury and repurchased 56,806 shares of common stock from our employees to satisfy statutory tax withholding requirements upon the vesting of certain performance phantom stock units under the Equity Incentive Plan. We also repurchased 263,160 shares of common stock on the open market pursuant to our stock repurchase program, and 208,597 shares were forfeited by former employees and returned to treasury stock. During the year ended September 30, 2020, we issued 6,789 unrestricted shares of common stock from treasury to members of our Board of Directors as part of their overall compensation and 5,750 unrestricted shares to satisfy the exercise of outstanding options.
Restricted Stock
During the years ended September 30, 2021, 2020, and 2019, we recognized $ 145 , $ 2,441 , and $ 776 , respectively, in compensation expense related to our restricted stock awards. During the year ended September 30, 2020, $ 1,100 of the compensation expense was settled with cash. At September 30, 2021, the unamortized compensation cost related to outstanding unvested restricted stock was $ 167 . A summary of restricted stock awards for the years ended September 30, 2021, 2020, and 2019 is provided in the table below:
Year Ended September 30,
2021 2020 2019
Unvested at beginning of year 38,936 283,195 —
Granted — 69,338 283,195
Vested ( 8,183 ) ( 105,000 ) —
Forfeited ( 13,996 ) ( 208,597 ) —
Unvested at end of year 16,757 38,936 283,195
The fair value of shares vesting during the years ended September 30, 2021, 2020, and 2019 was $ 308 , $ 2,984 and zero , respectively. Fair value was calculated as the number of shares vested times the market price of shares on the date of vesting. The weighted average grant date fair value of unvested restricted stock at September 30, 2021 was $ 21.56 .
All the restricted shares granted under the Equity Incentive Plan (vested or unvested) participate in dividends issued to common shareholders, if any.
Director Phantom Stock Units
Director phantom stock units (“Director PSUs”) are primarily granted to the members of the Board of Directors as part of their overall compensation. These Director PSUs are contractual rights to receive one share of the Company's common stock and are paid via unrestricted stock grants to each director upon their departure from the Board of Directors. We record compensation expense for the full value of the grant on the date of grant. For the years ended September 30, 2021, 2020, and 2019, we recognized $ 376 , $ 390 , and $ 300 , respectively, in compensation expense related to these grants.
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Employee Phantom Stock Units
An employee phantom stock unit (an “Employee PSU”) is a contractual right to receive one share of the Company’s common stock. Depending on the terms of each grant, Employee PSUs may vest upon the achievement of certain specified performance objectives and continued performance of services, or may vest based on continued performance of services through the vesting date.
As of September 30, 2020, the Company had outstanding Employee PSUs, which, subject to the achievement of certain performance metrics, could have resulted in the issuance of 204,501 shares of common stock. During the year ended September 30, 2021, 13,402 Employee PSUs were forfeited and 71,420 vested, and the Company granted additional Employee PSUs, which, subject to the achievement of certain performance metrics, could result in the issuance of 163,264 shares of common stock. As of September 30, 2021, a maximum of 282,942 shares of common stock may be issued under outstanding Employee PSUs.
During the year ended September 30, 2021, 2020, and 2019 we recognized compensation expense of $ 2,986 , $ 1,443 , and $ 1,151 , respectively, related to Employee PSUs. The vesting of these awards is subject to either the achievement of specified levels of cumulative net income before taxes (a performance condition) or specified stock price levels (a market condition) and continued performance of services, or based on continued performance of services through the vesting date alone. For stock awards where vesting depends on achievement of a performance condition, we record expense when we conclude it is probable that the performance condition will be met. At September 30, 2021, it is deemed probable that the portion of the awards that vest based on performance conditions will vest.
13. RELATED-PARTY TRANSACTIONS
The Company is a party to a sublease agreement with Tontine Associates, for corporate office space in Greenwich, Connecticut. The lease was renewed in November 2019, with monthly rent of approximately $ 8 . Payments by the Company are at a rate consistent with that paid by Tontine Associates to its landlord. See Note 3, “Con trolling Shareholder” for additional information regarding Tontine.
14. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
401(k) Plan
In November 1998, we established the IES Holdings, Inc. 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan. All full-time IES employees are eligible to participate on the first day of the month subsequent to completing sixty days of service and attaining age twenty-one. Participants become vested in our matching contributions following three years of service. We also maintain several subsidiary retirement savings plans. We recognized $ 3,386 , $ 2,326 , and $ 2,144 in matching expenses in fiscal years 2021, 2020, and 2019, respectively.
Executive Savings Plan
Under the Executive Deferred Compensation Plan adopted on July 1, 2004 (the “Executive Savings Plan”), certain employees are permitted to defer a portion (up to 75%) of their base salary and/or bonus for a plan year. The Human Resources and Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors may, in its sole discretion, credit one or more participants with an employer deferral (contribution) in such amount as the Committee may choose (“Employer Contribution”). The Employer Contribution, if any, may be a fixed dollar amount, a fixed percentage of the participant’s compensation, base salary, or bonus, or a “matching” amount with respect to all or part of the participant’s elective deferrals for such plan year, and/or any combination of the foregoing as the Committee may choose. No compensation earned during the years ended September 30, 2021, 2020, or 2019 was deferred under this plan.
Multiemployer Pension Plan
The Infrastructure Solutions segment participates in a multiemployer direct benefit pension plan for employees covered under one of our collective bargaining agreements. We do not administer the plan. We do not significantly participate in this plan. As of December 31, 2020, this plan was funded at 84.38 %.
15. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
Fair value is considered the price to sell an asset, or transfer a liability, between market participants on the measurement date. Fair value measurements assume that (1) the asset or liability is exchanged in an orderly manner, (2) the exchange is in the principal market for that asset or liability, and (3) the market participants are independent, knowledgeable, able and willing to transact an
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exchange. Fair value accounting and reporting establishes a framework for measuring fair value by creating a hierarchy for observable independent market inputs and unobservable market assumptions and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. Judgment is required to interpret the market data used to develop fair value estimates. As such, the estimates presented herein are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that could be realized in a current exchange. The use of different market assumptions and/or estimation methods could have a material effect on the estimated fair value.
Financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2021 and 2020, are summarized in the following tables by the type of inputs applicable to the fair value measurements:
September 30, 2021
Total Fair Value Quoted Prices (Level 1) Significant Unobservable (Level 3)
Executive savings plan assets $ 937 $ 937 $ —
Executive savings plan liabilities ( 806 ) ( 806 ) —
Contingent consideration liability ( 4,181 ) — ( 4,181 )
Total $ ( 4,050 ) $ 131 $ ( 4,181 )
September 30, 2020
Total Fair Value Quoted Prices (Level 1) Significant Unobservable (Level 3)
Executive savings plan assets $ 766 $ 766 $ —
Executive savings plan liabilities ( 644 ) ( 644 ) —
Total $ 122 $ 122 $ —
In fiscal year 2021, we entered into a contingent consideration arrangement related to the acquisition of Bayonet. At September 30, 2021, we estimated the fair value of this contingent consideration liability at $ 4,181 . The table below presents the fair value of this obligation, which used significant unobservable inputs (Level 3).
In fiscal years 2016, 2017, and 2018, we entered into contingent consideration arrangements related to certain acquisitions. Please see Note 19, “Business Combinations” for further discussion. At September 30, 2021, we estimated the fair value of these contingent consideration liabilities at zero . The table below presents a reconciliation of the fair value of these obligations, which used significant unobservable inputs (Level 3).
Contingent Consideration Agreement
Fair Value at September 30, 2019 $ 11
Issuances —
Settlements —
Net adjustments to fair value ( 11 )
Fair Value at September 30, 2020 $ —
Acquisitions ( 4,074 )
Net adjustments to fair value ( 107 )
Fair Value at September 30, 2021 $ ( 4,181 )
Below is a description of the inputs used to value the assets summarized in the preceding tables:
Level 1 — Inputs represent unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets exchanged in active markets.
Level 2 — Inputs include directly or indirectly observable inputs other than Level 1 inputs such as quoted prices for similar assets exchanged in active or inactive markets; quoted prices for identical assets exchanged in inactive markets; and other inputs that are considered in fair value determinations of the assets.
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Level 3 — Inputs include unobservable inputs used in the measurement of assets. Management is required to use its own assumptions regarding unobservable inputs because there is little, if any, market activity in the assets or related observable inputs that can be corroborated at the measurement date.
16. INVENTORY
Inventories consist of the following components:
September 30,
2021 2020
Raw materials $ 5,819 $ 3,232
Work in process 6,848 4,894
Finished goods 1,554 1,186
Parts and supplies 54,352 15,577
Total inventories $ 68,573 $ 24,889
17. GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Goodwill
The following summarizes changes in the carrying value of goodwill by segment for the years ended September 30, 2021 and 2020:
Communications Residential Infrastructure Solutions Commercial & Industrial Total
Balance at September 30, 2019 $ 2,816 $ 10,018 $ 30,812 $ 6,976 $ 50,622
Acquisitions (Note 19) — 6,201 3,916 — 10,117
Goodwill impairment — — — ( 6,976 ) ( 6,976 )
Balance at September 30, 2020 2,816 16,219 34,728 — 53,763
Acquisitions (Note 19) — 35,151 3,481 — 38,632
Balance at September 30, 2021 $ 2,816 $ 51,370 $ 38,209 $ — $ 92,395
Based on the results of our annual goodwill impairment assessment at September 30, 2021, we concluded the fair value of each of our reporting units exceeded its book value, and therefore we recorded no impairment charges for the year ended September 30, 2021.
In 2020, our Commercial & Industrial reporting unit experienced operating losses. Our performance was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and other market factors which delayed the awarding of new projects, decreased demand for new construction in market sectors such as retail, office, and hospitality, and negatively impacted our revenue, profitability and backlog. As a result of this increasingly competitive and uncertain environment, and the financial performance of this reporting unit, we concluded in performing our annual goodwill impairment assessment as of September 30, 2020 that the fair value of our Commercial & Industrial reporting unit was less than its carrying amount, which resulted in the recognition of a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of $ 6,976 for the year ended September 30, 2020.
Intangible Assets
Intangible assets consist of the following:
September 30, 2021
Estimated Useful Lives (in Years) Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net
Trademarks/trade names 5 - 20 $ 15,262 $ ( 2,891 ) $ 12,371
Technical library 20 400 ( 161 ) 239
Customer relationships 6 - 15 96,879 ( 24,021 ) 72,858
Non-competition arrangements 5 40 ( 25 ) 15
Backlog and construction contracts 1 4,957 ( 4,821 ) 136
Total $ 117,538 $ ( 31,919 ) $ 85,619
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September 30, 2020
Estimated Useful Lives (in Years) Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net
Trademarks/trade names 5 - 20 $ 7,754 $ ( 1,741 ) $ 6,013
Technical library 20 400 ( 141 ) 259
Customer relationships 6 - 15 46,449 ( 14,900 ) 31,549
Non-competition arrangements 5 40 ( 17 ) 23
Backlog and construction contracts 1 3,383 ( 1,870 ) 1,513
Total $ 58,026 $ ( 18,669 ) $ 39,357
For the years ended September 30, 2021, 2020, and 2019, amortization expense of intangible assets was $ 13,191 , $ 6,424 and $ 3,950 , respectively. Our estimated future amortization expense for years ending September 30 is as follows:
Year Ending September 30,
2022 $ 13,683
2023 13,153
2024 12,810
2025 12,370
2026 12,030
Thereafter 21,573
Total $ 85,619
18. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Legal Matters
From time to time we are a party to various claims, lawsuits and other legal proceedings that arise in the ordinary course of business. We maintain various insurance coverages to minimize financial risk associated with these proceedings. None of these proceedings, separately or in the aggregate, are expected to have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. With respect to all such proceedings, we record reserves when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. We expense routine legal costs related to these proceedings as they are incurred.
On June 22, 2021, the United States Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division (the “DOL”) notified IES Residential, Inc. (“IESR”), our subsidiary, that the DOL had commenced an administrative investigation of IESR’s compliance with laws regulating employee wage payment. The inquiry concerned overtime calculations and record keeping with respect to certain Arizona employees who are paid on a piece rate basis. In response to certain DOL requests, IESR produced documents and made employees available for interviews.
On November 10, 2021, the DOL indicated that it believes IESR piece rate employees did not record all hours worked, and therefore IESR was not in compliance with the Fair Labor Standards Act. We dispute this claim, and plan to vigorously defend ourselves. To date, the Company has not established a reserve with respect to this matter, as we believe the likelihood of our responsibility for damages is not probable and a potential range of exposure is not reasonably estimable.
Risk Management
We retain the risk for workers’ compensation, employer’s liability, automobile liability, construction defects, general liability and employee group health claims, as well as pollution coverage, resulting from uninsured deductibles per accident or occurrence which are generally subject to annual aggregate limits. Our general liability program provides coverage for bodily injury and property damage. In many cases, we insure third parties, including general contractors, as additional insured parties under our insurance policies. Losses are accrued based upon our known claims incurred and an estimate of claims incurred but not reported. As a result, many of our claims are effectively self-insured. Many claims against our insurance are in the form of litigation. At September 30, 2021 and 2020, we had $ 5,787 and $ 6,254 , respectively, accrued for self-insurance liabilities. We are also subject to construction defect liabilities, primarily within our Residential segment. As of September 30, 2021 and 2020, we had $ 8 and $ 36 , respectively, reserved
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for these claims. Because the reserves are based on judgment and estimates, and involve variables that are inherently uncertain, such as the outcome of litigation and an assessment of insurance coverage, there can be no assurance that the ultimate liability will not be higher or lower than such estimates or that the timing of payments will not create liquidity issues for the Company.
Some of the underwriters of our casualty insurance program require us to post letters of credit as collateral. This is common in the insurance industry. To date, we have not had a situation where an underwriter has had reasonable cause to effect payment under a letter of credit. At September 30, 2021 and 2020, $ 4,327 and $ 5,464 , respectively, of our outstanding letters of credit was utilized to collateralize our insurance program.
Surety
As of September 30, 2021, the estimated cost to complete our bonded projects was approximately $ 80,285 . We evaluate our bonding requirements on a regular basis, including the terms offered by our sureties. We believe the bonding capacity presently provided by our current sureties is adequate for our current operations and will be adequate for our operations for the foreseeable future. Posting letters of credit in favor of our sureties reduces the borrowing availability under our revolving credit facility.
Other Commitments and Contingencies
Some of our customers and vendors require us to post letters of credit, or provide intercompany guarantees, as a means of guaranteeing performance under our contracts and ensuring payment by us to subcontractors and vendors. If our customer has reasonable cause to effect payment under a letter of credit, we would be required to reimburse our creditor for the letter of credit.
From time to time, we may enter into firm purchase commitments for materials, such as copper or aluminum wire, which we expect to use in the ordinary course of business. These commitments are typically for terms of less than one year and require us to buy minimum quantities of materials at specific intervals at a fixed price over the term. As of September 30, 2021, we had commitments of $ 12,292 outstanding under agreements to purchase copper wire and other materials over the next 12 months in the ordinary course of business.
19. BUSINESS COMBINATIONS
Fiscal 2021
The Company completed four acquisitions during the year ended September 30, 2021 for a total aggregate cash consideration of $ 92,463 .
• Edmonson Electric, LLC ("Edmonson") - On May 18, 2021, we acquired an 80% ownership interest in Edmonson, a Land O'Lakes, Florida-based provider of residential electric, low voltage, and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) installation services. The acquisition of Edmonson expanded our presence in the Florida market and added electrical to our Florida service offerings. Edmonson is part of our Residential segment and continues to operate under the Edmonson name.
• Bayonet Plumbing, Heating & Air-Conditioning, LLC ("Bayonet") - On December 21, 2020, we acquired an 80% ownership interest in Bayonet, a Hudson, Florida-based provider of residential HVAC and plumbing installation and maintenance services. The acquisition of Bayonet allowed us to expand into the Florida market, while adding plumbing and HVAC to our service offerings. Bayonet is part of our Residential segment and continues to operate under the Bayonet name.
• Wedlake Fabricating, Inc. (“Wedlake”) - On November 19, 2020, we acquired Wedlake, a Tulsa, Oklahoma-based manufacturer of custom generator enclosures that are primarily used by data centers and large commercial and industrial facilities. The acquisition of Wedlake expanded our generator enclosures business and our geographic footprint. Wedlake is part of our Infrastructure Solutions segment and continues to operate under the Wedlake name.
• K.E.P. Electric, Inc. (“KEP”) - On November 5, 2020, we acquired KEP, a Batavia, Ohio-based electrical contractor specializing in the design and installation of electrical systems for single-family housing and multi-family developments. The acquisition of KEP, which has operations in Ohio and Kentucky, advanced the expansion of our Residential service offerings into the Midwest. KEP is part of our Residential segment and continues to operate under the KEP name.
Total aggregate cash consideration for these acquisitions was $ 92,463 , of which $ 10,916 was paid into escrow pending discharge of the acquired companies' indebtedness under the Paycheck Protection Program ("PPP") established by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act and implemented by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Loans made under the PPP are eligible to be forgiven if certain criteria are met. As of September 30, 2021, all PPP loans were forgiven and escrow payments have been distributed to the respective sellers.
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In addition to the cash consideration, the purchase price also includes contingent consideration with respect to the acquisition of Bayonet of up to $ 4,500 due in December 2023. Amounts to be paid are contingent on earnings achieved over a three year period, and will accrue interest on the $ 4,500 at a rate of 3%, to be paid quarterly. This contingent liability was valued at $ 4,074 as of the date of the acquisition.
The Company accounted for the transactions under the acquisition method of accounting, which requires recording assets and liabilities at fair value (Level 3). The valuations derived from the estimated fair value assessments and assumptions used by management are preliminary pending finalization of certain tangible and intangible asset valuations and assessment of deferred taxes. While management believes the preliminary estimates and assumptions underlying the valuations are reasonable, different estimates and assumptions could result in different values being assigned to individual assets acquired and liabilities assumed. This may result
in further adjustments to the preliminary amounts recorded. The preliminary valuation of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed is as follows:
Current assets $ 36,348
Property and equipment 11,965
Intangible assets 59,648
Goodwill 38,632
Operating right of use assets 837
Current liabilities ( 29,149 )
Operating long-term lease liabilities ( 723 )
Deferred tax liability ( 3,282 )
Noncontrolling interest ( 21,813 )
Net assets acquired $ 92,463
With regard to goodwill, the balance is attributable to the workforce of the acquired business and other intangibles that do not qualify for separate recognition. In connection with these acquisitions, the preliminary estimate of acquired goodwill is $ 38,632 of which $ 20,741 is tax deductible.
The intangible assets acquired primarily consisted of Customer Relationships and Trade Names with a total weighted-average amortization period of 6.4 years.
These acquisitions contributed $ 179,628 in revenue and $ 6,508 in operating income during the year ended September 30, 2021.
Fiscal 2020
We completed two acquisitions in fiscal 2020 for total aggregate cash consideration of $ 28,952 . In February 2020, we acquired both Aerial Lighting & Electric, Inc. ("Aerial"), a Naugatuck, Connecticut-based electrical contractor specializing in the design and installation of electrical systems for multi-family developments, and Plant Power and Control Systems, L.L.C. ("PPCS"), a Birmingham, Alabama-based manufacturer and installer of custom engineered power distribution equipment.
These acquisitions contributed $ 21,836 in revenue and $ 812 in operating income during the year ended September 30, 2020.
Unaudited Pro Forma Information
The following unaudited supplemental pro forma results of operations for the year ended September 30, 2021 are calculated as if each acquisition occurred as of October 1 of the fiscal year prior to consummation.
Unaudited
Twelve Months Ended September 30,
2021 2020
Revenues $ 1,631,057 $ 1,441,933
Net income attributable to IES Holdings, Inc. $ 69,928 $ 49,257
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20. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
On December 2, 2021, we entered into the Ninth Amendment of our Prior Credit Agreement with Wells Fargo. The Ninth Amendment, among other things, increases the maximum revolver amount from $ 100,000 to $ 125,000 , reduces our required minimum Liquidity from $ 20,000 to $ 12,500 , and extends the maturity date from September 30, 2024 to September 30, 2026. The Ninth Amendment also addresses the banking industry's transition away from the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") as a benchmark interest rate by replacing LIBOR with the Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR") as the benchmark for establishing the interest rate charged on our borrowings.
Under the terms of the Ninth Amendment, amounts outstanding bear interest at a per annum rate equal to a Daily Three Month SOFR, plus an interest rate margin, which is determined quarterly, based on the following thresholds:
Level
Thresholds
Interest Rate Margin
I
If Liquidity is less than 35% of the Maximum Revolver Amount at any time during the period
2.00 percentage points
II
If Liquidity is greater than or equal to 35% of the Maximum Revolver Amount at all times during the period and less than 50% of the Maximum Revolver Amount at any time during the period
1.75 percentage points
III
If Liquidity is greater than or equal to 50% of the Maximum Revolver Amount at all times during the period
1.50 percentage points
70
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
None.