How To Hire A Commercial Construction Contractor

The contractors you choose can make or break your commercial construction project. Selecting a contractor is a major decision, and it can be very difficult to narrow down your options. Here’s what to keep in mind when selecting a commercial construction contractor and tips to make the process easier.

1. Opt for word-of-mouth recommendations and check references.

Word-of-mouth recommendations are typically the most effective way to find a commercial contractor that meets your needs.

Since there are many different types of commercial contractors on the market, a Google search won’t always narrow things down far enough for your project. If you know other business owners in your area that have worked on similar projects, ask them about which contractors they used and what their experience was like.

If you don’t have any contacts that have worked on similar projects, reach out to the rest of your network for recommendations. In particular, local real estate professionals, architects, and interior designers may be able to provide you with recommendations.

2. Look for a portfolio of similar projects and visit in person.

It’s important to find a contractor that has experience working on projects that are similar to yours. Buildings in different industries have their own unique requirements – for example, a medical building has to meet very different standards than a restaurant. Because of this, past experiences will be very relevant when choosing a contractor.

Once you’ve made a list of potential candidates, review their portfolio of past projects to get an idea of their experience. If possible, go visit the sites in person to get a more detailed look at each project.

3. Conduct in-depth interviews.

Effective communication is key to a successful construction project, and talking to your contractor in person will give you an idea of their communication style. A face-to-face interview also gives you an opportunity to talk through the specifics of the project in-depth and understand exactly how the contractor would approach it.

4. Opt for value over low prices.

While budget is an important consideration for any construction project, avoid opting for the lowest-priced contractor without considering overall value. While a lower-priced contractor may seem appealing, they may not be able to offer the best quality work. A low-quality commercial build can have a serious negative effect on your business, which is why overall value is so important.

5. Verify licensing and insurance requirements.

Before getting started with your contract, verify that your contractor is properly licensed and meets your state’s insurance requirements. This protects both you and your contractor legally if an accident happens on-site. If a contractor can’t provide a license or proof of insurance, it’s best to avoid them. Finding the right commercial construction contractor can be tricky.

Don’t rush when making this important decision – take your time to find the right fit for your business. New Horizons Construction Services is an Orlando-based general contractor that works on a wide variety of commercial construction projects. If you’re interested in learning more about our services, give us a call at 407-574-2164 or contact us through our website.