No matter your business, the space you work in is important. It defines how you and your employees feel and affects your productivity. It also sends a message to customers about who you are and what you do. So when it’s time for a remodel, it’s crucial to take the time to get everything just right. Here are some tips on what to ask from your contractors.
Choosing a Contractor
First, you must find your contractor. Getting this wrong can result in a shoddy job, unsafe work with subpar materials, a delayed timeline, and possible additional costs. So take your time to do some research.
Look for a licensed and insured general contractor experienced with commercial spaces. This is crucial so that they know the particular requirements for commercial establishments. Check that they are thoroughly knowledgeable about the commercial codes in your area. Visit their previous projects to get an idea of their quality of work. Ask for references from past clients and check out online reviews to see how they work.
Once you’ve found a few good candidates, invite them to give you a proposal. Provide a detailed scope of work. This will help them give you an accurate quote and avoid surprises later on. If someone else did the design for the space, provide them with a copy so that their proposal will be based on it.
An Itemized Quotation and Contract
Without an itemized quotation from all contractors based on the same parameters, you will not be able to choose a contractor correctly. There can be hidden charges that are not immediately obvious, so it’s crucial to compare the quotes side by side.
The itemized quotation from your shortlisted contractors should include:
- The work to be done
- A timeline for the project
- The materials they will be using
- A payment schedule
Take note of what’s included and what’s not. For example, it must indicate whether the contractor will be obtaining all the necessary permits and licenses related to the work. Also, find out if cleanup is included in their services or if you will need to hire someone else for that. Find out where they will source the materials so you can ensure their quality.
Once you’ve chosen a contractor, get everything in writing to avoid misunderstandings and disagreements down the road. The quotation is changed to a construction contract you and the contractor will sign.
This should include all the agreed-upon terms and conditions, such as a detailed description of the work to be done, the price and schedule of payments, construction timeline, materials to be used, and scope of work. Require them to show you samples of materials they’ll be using so you can approve them yourself. It’s essential to have a lawyer look over the contract before you sign it so that you understand everything.
Project Timeline
Without a set project timeline, your commercial remodeling project can drag on and put a strain on your business operations. It’s essential to have a schedule so that you can plan accordingly and avoid disruptions to your business.
Your contractor should be able to give you a detailed timeline for the project from start to finish. This includes the time needed for planning, obtaining permits, ordering materials, construction, and cleanup. Make sure that they take into account possible delays so that the timeline is realistic.
You should also agree on milestones for the project so that you can make progress payments accordingly. For example, you can pay a certain percentage when the permit is obtained, another percentage when construction starts, and the rest upon completion. This protects you in case the contractor doesn’t deliver as agreed.
Regular Communication
If you do not have regular communication with your contractor after the contract signing, it can be difficult to track the progress of the project and ensure that everything is going as planned. Your contractor must set up regular meetings with you, at least once a week, to discuss the project’s progress. This is also an opportunity for you to discuss any concerns.
Your contractor should keep you updated on any changes or delays so that you can plan accordingly. If there are any problems, they should be addressed immediately. Be sure to document all communication so that there is a record of what was discussed
A Project Walkthrough and Owner’s Manual
Upon the completion of the project, your contractor should do a walkthrough with you to point out all the new features and systems in the remodeled space. They should also provide you with an owner’s manual that contains information on how to operate and maintain everything, such as the HVAC system, plumbing, electrical, and security systems.
This is important so that you can properly take care of your investment and avoid any problems down the road. Make sure that all warranties and service agreements are included in the manual so that you know who to contact if something goes wrong. That is also where you will find the maintenance schedules for each piece of equipment.
Get the Most Out of Your Commercial Renovation
Renovating your business space need not be a nightmare. If you follow these tips, you can make sure that you get the most out of your investment. They will help make your commercial renovation go smoothly and give you years of enjoyment and profits from your upgraded space.