Building a relationship with contractors or someone that is serving your interests is critical to the success of your project. We care about your construction project from start to finish so we have put together this list for tips on how to manage the operation of your project. Our 3R Guarantee of Relationships, Reliability, and Results is our foundation and guidelines to live by in your personal and professional life. We want everyone to see success in life and getting those results starts with the relationships you build.
Renovations or construction needs to be performed quickly. Many contractors are necessary to complete the job, and trying to keep track of everything can be stressful. When making repairs to an office building, there is no time to waste. When hiring a general contractor, most of the hard work is out of your hands – except for managing the operation.
- Contractor Reputation – How well have previous employers enjoyed the contractor’s services? Now it is easier than ever to check reviews on the internet. Nearly every business on the planet has a rating through a variety of sites. Also feel free to ask the contractor for references before hiring. Are the employees professional? Will they be swearing on the job? Make sure the standards of the contractor meet yours.
- Schedule – By formatting a set schedule, beyond just a deadline, tasks are more likely to become completed in a timely manner. Not to mention, as the property owner, stress will be relieved with every daily box that can be checked off. If you know what is supposed to be done, you can tell when the work is getting behind (or with luck, ahead!). By working with the contractor to make this schedule, expectations can be reasonable and all parties can agree on the information.
- Insurance – Contractors should have accurate, updated insurance. Ask to see this before beginning a project to ensure that nothing is accidentally forgotten about (such as an expired policy). If anything goes wrong in the process, such as an accident or injury, you want to make sure your money is not at stake. The insurance makes it easy for you to know any mistakes are not your responsibility.
- Cost Estimation – Make sure to get a detailed estimation for the project. Every aspect and fine detail should be explained in order to avoid surprise costs and have a higher likelihood of accuracy. Compare contractors and see what seems like the best option and most value for your money. Also, communicate with the contractor and express particular materials you would prefer if such an option exists. Get everyone on the same page.
- Make a Contract – A major mistake is to forget about making a contract. Without one, a contractor may not be liable for any poor work done. Not to mention, this opens the door for the contractor to ask for more than was originally requested. Make sure all aspects of the project are written out. Do not assume that nothing could go wrong with the obvious – if the contractor is to buy the materials, make sure that is marked down. No matter who the contractor is, friend, or family, a contract is absolutely in your best interest in order to avoid issues or miscommunication.
Forming a relationship with a contractor or anyone that is serving you is very important. We hope we gave you a little insight into getting results in your construction project. We believe that being reliable leads to healthy relationships and amazing results and that leads to everyone’s success.
