Commercial construction can be a great undertaking, both literally and figuratively. You might think you have it all 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 option. It’s counterintuitive thinking compared to everything we’ve been taught. But even in these times when you want to make sure you keep the bottom line in check, it’s important to find the best price for the project. Sometimes the lowest bid is like this because the contractor has no idea what the job entails, and other times they will get low pay, get a payment or two, and then quit the job.
2. Go online and do your research. Check references, run contractor board numbers, and study your contractors’ backgrounds so you know before you sign on the dotted line 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 is not always the best. A smaller contractor who is more adept at smaller jobs might be what your job needs. If you are renovating a store, consider looking for contractors who specialize in commercial space renovations.
4. Start with the general contractor and work your way from there. By bringing the general contractor to work first, you can use their knowledge on the job early on and have them help guide the project.
5. Go ahead and add that maintenance agreement. Once the work is done, you want to make sure your project lasts for many years. A good maintenance contract that reviews 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 project objective promote your company’s image and brand? If not, it may not be the right project for you. This is a large capital expense and you want it to pay off with a solid return on investment for you.
7. Your project must make sense. Do you have inward swinging janitor closet doors? Did the customer service booth end up with just a small window facing the front? Check the design proposal before bidding to make sure the concept diagrams and blueprints make sense and lead to a positive workflow.
8. Along with the number 7, areas such as office supplies and copier are guaranteed to be easily accessible and will keep things efficient in the office or administrative area.
9. Decorate in such a way that colors and furnishings enhance your brand and company image. Your clients should feel welcome in your new place, so make sure your contractor includes an interior decorator in the plans.
10. Make sure all of your contractors agree to the project and are able to meet deadlines. This point is probably the most important of all. Any delay is costly both financially and in terms of getting your business back up and running in the new location.
Hopefully, these tips will help you head in the right direction for your next project. Happy building!
