Any general contractor should provide you with customer references and work history. It also helps to visit completed projects in person if possible.
Ask for a cost estimate and timeline before the interview. Then, pay attention to how responsive and open they are during the initial communications.
Experience
Your general contractor will play a critical role during your commercial project. They will manage the subcontractors, timelines, permits, and inspections, and ensure that all work is compliant with building codes. Choosing the right contractor from the start will ensure that your project is completed correctly, on time, and within budget.
Look for a contractor with a strong track record of successful projects and satisfied clients. Ask for a list of references and be sure to follow up by contacting past customers about their experience working with the contractor. Ask about the quality of workmanship, communication, and overall satisfaction with their experience.
Another key aspect of a contractor’s experience is the types of projects they specialize in. Look for a general contractor that has experience with your specific project type, as they will be best equipped to handle any challenges that may arise during construction.
Also, be sure to consider their location and area of coverage. It’s a good idea to hire a general contractor that is located close to your construction site, as they will be more familiar with local regulations and ordinances. Additionally, local contractors will be more likely to prioritize compliance with industry standards such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines. You should also verify their licensing, insurance, and permit status to ensure they are qualified to take on your project.
Licenses & Permits
If you’re considering working with a general contractor, be sure to check their licenses and insurance coverage. It is also a good idea to ask for references from past clients who can speak to the quality of their work and professionalism.
Once you’ve made a list of potential contractors, contact them to discuss your project and gather proposals. Be sure to clarify the scope, timeline, budget, and other details of your construction project so that each contractor understands your unique needs.
During this meeting, you should also be sure to compare pricing. While a lower bid may seem like the best option, it’s important to consider the total costs of your project. A well-rounded proposal should include all fees and expenses, so that you can be confident in the contractor’s ability to complete your project within your desired timeframe and budget.
Also, be sure to evaluate each candidate’s communication style. A reputable general contractor will always be quick to respond to your questions and concerns, and they will work with you to ensure the success of your project. If a contractor does not return your initial phone call or email promptly, you should look elsewhere. The right general contractor will be committed to supporting your project from start to finish, ensuring reliability and success every step of the way.
Reputation
It may seem obvious, but you want to choose a general contractor with a strong reputation. This will ensure they work as a team player and can meet deadlines. Choosing a GC with a poor reputation could cost you in the long run if they don’t provide quality results.
The reputation of a general contractor should be apparent when you talk to references or visit previous projects. Look for a contractor that is open to discussing past projects and has a list of references you can contact to hear about their experiences with them. If a potential contractor can’t provide you with references or does not return your initial phone calls, consider that an indicator of their unreliability.
Typically, property owners will contract a general contractor to manage the project from start to finish. They’ll then engage subcontractors to perform specific scopes of work as the project progresses. This is known as a negotiated contract. By ensuring that the GC has a good reputation, you can rest assured that they will pay their subcontractors promptly and handle any issues that arise during construction. Additionally, a reputable GC will know how to communicate with all parties involved in the project to keep them informed and prevent delays.
Communication
The right general contractor will be open to discussing your project and providing transparency throughout the process. They will also communicate frequently, ensuring you receive progress updates and other information on a regular basis. It is important to find a contractor who will be responsive to your calls or emails and willing to meet in person as needed.
During your contractor interviews, examine each candidate’s portfolio and past projects. Ask for references from previous clients and speak with them to see if their experiences were positive. If possible, visit a few of the construction sites and buildings that the contractor worked on to see the quality of their work firsthand.
In addition to experience, you should evaluate the general contractor’s financial stability and reliability. If you are able to, review their credit history and financial statements to determine their level of financial security and ability to pay for unforeseen expenses during the construction process.
Choosing the right general contractor is vital to your construction project’s success. Investing time in the selection process protects your financial interests initially and enhances lasting value and satisfaction. By utilizing the evaluative criteria discussed in this article, you can be confident that your selected contractor has the experience and qualifications necessary to complete your commercial construction project successfully.