Author Archives: brooksa@arnell-west.com

Medical Office Construction Requirements in Utah: What Healthcare Projects Must Consider

doctor talking to patient in newly constructed medical office

Constructing a medical facility is more complex than a typical commercial project. These spaces must meet strict technical and regulatory standards while keeping patients comfortable. If you’re planning medical office construction in Utah, it’s essential to understand these requirements from the start. This guide outlines the key regulations, systems, and timelines to help keep your […]

What Business Owners Should Know About Tenant Improvement Allowances

team discussing flooring options for tenant improvement

Is your business leasing a space? You probably realized day one that your new commercial space isn’t perfectly set up for all of your needs. Like most businesses, you’ll need to remodel the area to fit your workflow, brand, and layout requirements. This remodeling process requires capital. Fortunately, property owners can offer financial assistance, or […]

Commercial Remodel vs. New Construction: Which Is Better for Expanding Businesses?

commercial contractors discussing commercial remodel

So, your business is growing, and you need more room. That’s not the worst problem to have, but now comes the big question: should you turn to commercial remodeling or build something new from the ground up? There’s no single right answer; it all comes down to your goals, budget, and how much time you […]

What Is Construction Contingency and Why Does It Matter for Commercial Projects?

commercial contractor and engineer discussing construction contingency

Every commercial construction project comes with unknowns. Hidden site conditions, design changes, material price swings—things happen. That’s exactly why construction contingency exists. If you’re planning a commercial build or renovation, understanding how contingency works can save you a lot of stress (and money) down the road. The Safety Net Every Commercial Project Needs Construction contingency […]

How to Speed Up a Commercial Construction Project (Without Cutting Corners)

commercial contractors looking at blueprint and discussing project

For commercial contractors in Utah, time is money—literally. Every day, a job site sits idle or a schedule slips, costs accumulate, and potential revenue is delayed. Whether you’re building a new retail center in Salt Lake City or renovating an office in Spanish Fork, the pressure to finish on time is intense. However, fast should […]

What Businesses Should Know About Seismic Requirements for Commercial Buildings in Utah

steel framing for commercial building meeting Utah building code seismic requirements

Utah—specifically the Wasatch Front—sits in a seismically active zone. Because of this, local Utah building codes place a heavy emphasis on safety and stability during an earthquake. Here’s a breakdown of what that means for your commercial project and how you can prepare. What Do Seismic Requirements Actually Mean? Seismic requirements are Utah building codes […]

9 Ways to Reduce Change Orders in Your Commercial Construction Project

contractor looking at change order for commercial construction project

Change orders are one of the most significant sources of friction in commercial construction projects. When scope creep sets in, projects inevitably face cost overruns, extended timelines, and strained relationships between owners and contractors. These disruptions can turn a profitable venture into a financial burden if not managed correctly. Some changes are unavoidable due to […]

How Utah Weather Impacts Commercial Construction (and What Businesses Can Do About It)

utah commercial construction crew working in the snow

In Utah, “wait five minutes and the weather will change” is a logistical reality for construction projects. Business owners looking to build new retail space, office buildings, or restaurants have to manage difficult weather patterns that create a complex environment for builders. Is there anything you can do to help your Utah commercial construction project […]