You want a general contractor that delivers your project on time without sacrificing quality.
Starting a commercial construction project is exciting and requires careful planning, collaboration, and expertise. Selecting a reliable general contractor is critical, and in the busy construction landscape of Illinois, choosing the right general contractor isn’t easy.
Read on to learn more about a general contractor’s pivotal role in laying a solid foundation for success in commercial construction projects and how you can find your next general contractor.
Why Do You Need a General Contractor?
A general contractor oversees every aspect of construction from inception to completion. They can work with you from the beginning of a project or get started after design and planning.
For example, you can choose a general contractor for a design-build project and work with the same team for your entire project. Alternatively, you can choose to use an architect or building designer and then go through the bidding process. During this process, you choose a general contractor to complete construction.
Regardless of when you bring your contractor on, their responsibilities include hiring subcontractors, managing timelines, obtaining necessary permits, and ensuring compliance with local building codes.
For a commercial construction project, the general contractor coordinates all the moving parts, including subcontractors. You can see how important it is for your contractor to have established project management processes.
Steps to Start Your Construction Journey
A tremendous variety of building options are available these days. You may already own a building that just needs remodeling or choose a high-efficiency PEMB that you wouldn’t have considered before.
Research the market to understand the needs and competition, craft a solid business plan to outline your goals, and ensure you meet the legal requirements, like permits and licenses.
Once these foundational pieces are set, you can move on to securing funding and building your team to bring your construction dreams to life. Here’s a list of what you need to keep in mind.
Collaboration and Setting Project Goals
Talk with a general contractor from early on to ensure their insights contribute to realistic goals. By aligning project objectives with the contractor’s expertise, you can tap into valuable knowledge regarding budgeting, scheduling, and potential challenges.
Working closely like this builds a team environment where everyone works towards a shared vision, setting the stage for a smooth construction phase.
Choosing the Right General Contractor
Here in Illinois, where you have so many choices of construction firms, research your builders and look for a proven success record, relevant experience, and a commitment to quality.
Look for contractors who have completed similar commercial projects, have a solid reputation within the community, and possess all necessary certifications and licenses. Client testimonials and reviews can also provide valuable insights into a contractor’s reliability and professionalism.
Effective Communication
Establish open lines of communication early when you choose a general contractor to ensure that they address the expectations and potential issues and make decisions collaboratively. Regular project updates, progress reports, and transparent communication about challenges or changes help maintain trust and alignment throughout the construction process.
Transparency in Budgeting
No one likes unexpected financial surprises. A reliable general contractor understands the importance of providing detailed cost estimates, outlining potential additional costs, and maintaining transparency throughout the project. This ensures that you have a realistic understanding of the financial aspects of construction to make informed decisions and avoid unexpected financial setbacks.
Close Out
A qualified general contractor like Chapple Design Build manages the project schedule, navigates permitting hurdles, and works as your advocate throughout construction. This lets you stay informed and involved without getting bogged down in the day-to-day complexities, ensuring a smoother, less stressful journey towards your dream space. Contact us today to learn more.
