10 great tips for commercial construction
Commercial construction can be a big undertaking, both literally and figuratively. You might think you have everything under control, but do you really? Here are ten tips to help make your next commercial construction project a success.
1. The lowest bid is not always the best choice. It’s a counterintuitive thought compared to everything we’ve been taught. But even in these times of wanting to make sure you keep the bottom line, it’s important to find the best price for the project. Sometimes the low bid is because the contractor has no idea what the job entails, and other times they’ll be low, get a payment or two, and then walk away from the job.
2. Go online and do your research. Check references, check contractor board numbers, and research your contractors’ backgrounds so you know before you sign on the dotted line exactly what you’re getting. The Internet can also be a source of information on current trends in commercial construction.
3. Find a contractor who specializes in what you want done. Sometimes the biggest isn’t always the best. A smaller contractor who is more adept at smaller tasks may be just what your job needs. If you’re renovating a store, consider finding contractors who specialize in retail space renovations.
4. Start with the main contractor and build from there. By bringing the general contractor into the job first, you are able to use their knowledge of the job from the start and have them help guide the project.
5. Go ahead and add this support agreement. Once the job is done, you want to make sure your project will last for years to come. A good maintenance contract that checks the equipment is a great idea for cleaning and maintaining things like your furnace or drain pipes. A quick clean now is much cheaper than an expensive repair later.
6. Does the purpose of the project improve the image and brand of your company? If it doesn’t, this might not be the right project for you. It’s a big capital outlay and you want it to pay off with a solid return on investment for you.
7. Your project should make sense. Do you have closet doors that open inward? Turned out to be a customer service booth with only a small front window? Double-check the design proposal before bidding to ensure that concept diagrams and drawings make sense and lead to a positive workflow.
8. Together with number 7, ensure that areas such as office supplies and the copier are easy to reach and will keep things efficient in the office or back office.
9. Decorate in such a way that colors and furniture enhance your brand and your company’s image. Your clients need to feel welcome in your new place, so make sure your contractor includes an interior decorator in the plans.
10. Make sure your contractors are on board with the project and able to meet deadlines. This point is perhaps the most important of all. Any delay is costly both financially and in terms of rebuilding your business in the new location.
We hope these tips help you get started in the right direction for your next project. Happy building!
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