July 7, 2017
Whether you
are starting a new business, a long time investor, or maybe even looking for
renovations to be done—the first step you will do is start searching for a
contractor. While you begin this process, make sure to keep these essential
questions in mind. This will give you an
abundant head start on making your finished project successful.
How
long have you been in this business?
· Being
able to know the length of their establishment will be very critical. Don’t get
me wrong – I am sure a start-up contractor can get the job done, but at what
cost? Your best bet will be going with a company that has been in the business
for over 30+ years. They have the experience, connections/relationships, and
they know the trends that have evolved.
What
projects have you done that can relate to mine?
· By
asking this question, you will get a feel on what types of places they have
built and if it relates to your future store/renovation. You are going to want
to choose a company that has built a variety of stores. If you choose a
contractor that has only built shoe stores and you are building a salon, well
then you may not want to go with them. Seems like common sense, right?
What
is your insurance policies and licensing?
· Any
company can talk the talk, but when they can’t walk the walk, there will be a
problem. Make certain you know what kind of insurance and licensing they have,
and receive proof. Also, you have to understand the coverage of their insurance
and guarantee it will work for your company.
The BIG question: How much will it cost?
· Of
course it is important to hear from more than one contractor, and of course you
are going to want the cheapest option. However, if you go the cheapest route
you are more than likely going to deal with a company that has survived by
cutting corners only to produce poor quality work. Many times, choosing the
contractor with the initial bid slightly higher than the others could save you
thousands (sometimes millions) in the
long run. But if you’re willing to take the gamble, then go for it.
How
will we communicate?
· Whether
it is after hours, during the day, or when a problem arises—make sure you have
the resources to be able to communicate with whomever you may need to speak to.
You will be able to tell how well a contractor communicates with you from the
start.
What
is our schedule?
· Find
out your start and end date. If any changes were to occur on their end, you
would be able to hold them accountable.
At the end of the day, you are their client and they need to make
certain you are satisfied with the work getting done. Another serious question
would be to ask about the contractor’s expected payment schedule. This will give you a timetable idea on when
payments are going to be made.
What
part of my job concerns you?
· Find
out what contractors are going to be the most honest with you. Truth builds trust. Being able to have
them tell you the exact concerns they may have upfront and how they are going
to overcome it are people you want to work with. They are prioritizing your needs
and comforting you that whatever challenge it may be, they will lead you in the
right direction to get it done.
What
is your relationship with subcontractors?
· Discover
how the general contractors will find the best subs to fit your project and how
they will monitor them throughout the process.
Discussing money and schedules may get difficult at times; yet, it would be smart to converse early on
when you will pay them.
If you are
looking for that perfect contractor,
be certain to keep these questions in mind and see how their company will
respond to them. Do not be afraid to ask other questions that you may be
concerned about or do not understand. Time
to take action!