A commercial space is a lot more than bricks and mortar. It’s a home for your business. Whether you’re building a new office complex, renovating a retail space, or expanding your warehouse, you need an experienced partner who can work with you to successfully implement your vision.
Plenty of commercial construction firms will be vying for the job, so how do you choose the best from the rest? Asking the right questions can reveal a lot about a company’s capabilities, professionalism, and suitability for your project. Here are seven key questions you’ll want to ask potential construction partners before breaking ground.
What to Ask Commercial Construction Firms Before Hiring Them
These questions will help you gather valuable insight into a commercial construction firm’s capabilities and approach, helping you identify the right partner for your project.
1. Do You Have Experience With Projects Similar to Mine?
You need to know that a firm has the right experience level and understanding for a project like yours. They should have a proven track record of successful projects similar in size, scope, and industry. Ask for specific examples of how they handled the projects. They may not be a good fit if they don’t have the relevant experience.
2. Can You Provide References From Past Clients in My Industry?
Speaking with past clients can give you insight into the firm’s work ethic, communication style, and ability to deliver on their promises. Positive references will highlight their professionalism, and getting references from clients in your industry is especially beneficial. If they can’t or won’t give you references, that’s a giant red flag.
3. How Will You Keep Me Updated on Progress?
Understanding the plan for how they’ll communicate with you ensures you are informed and involved throughout the project. They should have a clear communication strategy that outlines regular progress meetings and gives you a dedicated point of contact. Beware firms with haphazard communication from the start; it’s unlikely to get better when your project begins.
4. Can You Provide a List of Your Subcontractors and Their Qualifications?
Most commercial construction firms work with subcontractors to carry out specific parts of your project, like flooring, tiling, or plumbing. You need to know that their subcontractors are qualified. Ask the firm about their subcontractors’ experience and whether they have proven track records in their respective fields. All of their subcontractors should be appropriately licensed and insured, too.
5. What Quality Control Measures Do You Have in Place?
Rigorous quality control will help ensure your construction project meets your exacting standards for construction and safety. The firm should have a comprehensive quality control program, including regular inspections and meticulous documentation. If they don’t emphasize quality control, take it as a warning about their level of workmanship.
6. Do You Offer Any Sustainable Construction Practices or Materials?
Partnering with an environmentally responsible firm will benefit the planet and reduce your operational costs. Ask them about their commitment to environmental responsibility and how they integrate sustainable elements into their projects. Look for options like energy-efficient appliances, recycled-content materials, or locally sourced goods. It’s good to ask about their cleanup and recycling process, too.
7. How Do You Maintain a Collaborative and Professional Relationship With Your Clients?
A positive working relationship leads to more successful final results. The firm should emphasize open communication, collaborative problem-solving, and a willingness to address concerns respectfully. If they have a rigid approach to projects, that lack of flexibility could lead to issues later.
VPC Builders Is Ready to Answer All Your Questions
Finding the right construction firm can make building or renovating a commercial building smoother, more enjoyable, and more successful for everyone involved. VPC Builders wants to be your commercial construction partner. We welcome your questions and will show you how we use a collaborative approach to deliver the best possible results on every project we work on.
When you’re ready to start working on your commercial building project, contact VPC Builders. We’ll schedule a consultation to learn more about your project, answer your questions, and explore how we can become the best partner for your commercial construction needs.