I build over 1000 mile in Chicago back in 80's for Cablevision, per your post, how do they know, they don't have to know, you will be the one to Prove To Them that your 1099 folks were all NON EMPLOYEE. If you issue out the daily work task, Set the start/quit hrs, let them use your vehicles/equipment, deal with anyone on those crews other than their Suprv, QC their daily work, etc, etc.....Then you my friend are using all employee's, so get out your check book as IRS also charges back log of your past work. Once your on IRS Shit List.....it never stops !!
Keep Safe:MicroMan
