How Can You Find An Experienced General Contractor?
A reputable and experienced commercial general contractor can facilitate your next renovation, build-out or new construction project, and hiring the right professional to assist with your project is often a great starting point. However, with many commercial general contractors to choose from, you must find an effective way to narrow down the options and make a wise, informed decision. What should you look for when hiring a general contractor? If you are preparing to start searching for a skilled general contractor for help with your next project, consider focusing your attention on these points.
Ask Your General Contractor If They Have Experience Working on Similar Construction Projects
Before you interview commercial general contractors for consideration for your project, you must create a detailed written description of the project. This step will help you to formalize what it is that you want to accomplish through your project. By doing so, you can more easily eliminate contractors from consideration who do not have experience working on this type of project. More than that, you can communicate more effectively with these professionals about the type of project you want them to work on for you.
For example, if you’re wondering how to find a general contractor for home renovations, ask the general contractor what experience they have with completing home renovations. If they primarily focus on new builds, you may want to consider a different general contractor for your project.
Determine If the Contractor Has Strong Financial Health
The unfortunate reality is that some business owners have had their projects delayed or even halted indefinitely because the contractor they selected to work on the project had financial issues. The contractor may have been embattled with the IRS over tax issues, had liquidity issues that delayed the project and more. A reputable commercial general contractor will agree to your review of their financial documents, including tax returns, a business credit report and bank statements. Take time to thoroughly review the documents you obtain to look for signs of ample liquidity, great credit rating, responsible bill payment, paying taxes on time and more.
Inquire About General Contractor Licensing and Insurance
All general contractors are required to have proper licensing, which varies by state. Get to know more about the licensing requirements for contractors in your area, and verify that the contractor is properly licensed. Take the extra step to confirm that the license is still valid and active. In addition, obtain a copy of the company’s insurance certificate. Contractors should carry liability coverage, and this protects you from financial loss in a wide range of scenarios.
Check for Affordable Rates And a Detailed Written Estimate From Your General Contractor
Many businesses will begin the vetting process for a commercial general contractor by requesting bids. As you can see, you can save yourself a considerable amount of time and effort by narrowing down the options before you request an estimate. However, rates are an important factor for any commercial renovation or new construction project, and you need to ensure that you will be charged fair rates for services. A reputable contractor will provide you with a detailed written estimate with costs clearly outlined. Pay attention to disclaimers that may allow the contractor to increase rates and fees without a justifiable reason.
Your commercial general contractor will facilitate all stages of the project and can help you to more successfully complete your project on time, on budget and to your satisfaction. While a commercial general contractor is critical to the process and to the results, there are many contractors who may be eager to begin working on your project. When you focus your attention on these factors initially, you can more easily narrow down the options. Keep in mind that you may also want to interview your contractor personally. A commercial project may take several months or longer to complete, and you understandably want to work with a personable individual who you can develop a great working relationship with.