Taking on a commercial construction project is a major investment that requires finding the ideal contractor. With the right commercial and industrial contractor, your project will be completed on time, on budget, and to your specifications. Here are key questions to ask when vetting potential contractors for your commercial build or renovation.
Are You Licensed and Insured?
Only consider contractors who are properly licensed, bonded, and insured. Ask to see all active licenses and certification cards. Make sure their insurance covers general liability, workers compensation, property damage, and personal liability. Using an unlicensed industrial construction contractor could put you on the hook legally if anything goes wrong.
Who Will Be My Point of Contact?
Ask who will be the main point of contact throughout the project. Make sure this person has experience managing commercial jobs of similar scale and scope. Request references from past clients to confirm their communication skills and responsiveness. Knowing who will oversee day-to-day operations will avoid potential confusion.
What is Your Track Record on Similar Projects?
Find out how much experience they have completing projects in your industry and of comparable size and complexity. Ask for a portfolio of recent commercial builds they’ve executed. Call references to verify the quality of their work and ability to stay on schedule and budget. An experienced contractor for your specific type of project minimizes risk.
What is Your Approach to Worksite Safety?
Construction sites can be dangerous, so it’s crucial your contractor prioritizes safety. Ask about their job site safety record and standards. Do they hold regular safety meetings? Require protective equipment? Properly label hazards? Look for safety certification and regular training for all crew members.
How Do You Vet and Manage Subcontractors?
Most commercial projects involve subcontractors, so find out how the general contractor oversees them. Do they vet and interview subcontractors thoroughly? Make sure expectations and workflows are clear? Conduct site inspections and safety checks? Having an organized GC keeps all phases running smoothly.
What is Your Construction Schedule?
Get a detailed schedule showing timelines for each phase of the project from permitting to completion. Make sure they sequence jobs logically to maximize efficiency. Push for realistic time estimates based on staffing levels, past projects, and current workload. The schedule should build in contingencies for potential delays or issues.
How Will You Communicate Throughout the Project?
Open, responsive communication ensures you are looped in on progress and issues as they occur. Find out what communication channels the contractor uses. How often will they provide updates? Do they hold progress meetings? Will you have 24/7 access to a project manager? Frequent communication avoids problems down the road.
What Warranties Do You Offer?
Make sure the contractor provides clear, written warranties for their own workmanship as well as any subcontracted work. Typical warranties span 1-2 years but longer is better for major systems. Understand exactly what is and is not covered should defects arise after project completion.
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By asking the right questions upfront, you can vet commercial contractors thoroughly and select the ideal partner for your construction project. This helps set your upcoming build up for success from start to finish.
