A commercial construction project is a significant investment, and you want to make sure it’s done right the first time. But how do you ensure the success of your project? It all starts with asking your commercial contractor the right questions.
We’ve compiled a list of the most critical questions to evaluate contractors, explain project requirements, and set realistic expectations.
What Is the Project Timeline, and What Factors Could Delay It?
A reliable commercial contractor will provide a detailed schedule that accounts for design, permitting, construction phases, and final inspections. This shows that they’ve thought through all potential obstacles. Ask your contractor about contingency plans for handling any challenges, including:
- Weather conditions
- Material availability
- Permit approval times
- Unexpected issues with existing structures or utilities
What Permits, Licenses, and Insurance Do I Need?
Commercial construction requires numerous permits and regulatory approvals that vary by location and project type. The wrong permits or missing documentation can halt your project and result in expensive fines.
Your commercial contractor should guide you through the permitting process and ensure all necessary approvals are obtained before construction begins. This includes building permits, environmental clearances, and any special permits for your specific industry.
What Experience Do You Have with My Type of Project?
Different commercial projects require specialized knowledge and expertise. To ensure your contractor is qualified:
- Review the contractor’s portfolio for similar projects in your industry
- Ask for references from past clients with projects like yours
- Inquire about challenges encountered and solutions provided
Will My Building Be ADA Compliant?
Americans with Disabilities Act compliance is mandatory for most commercial buildings. Non-compliance can result in lawsuits, fines, and expensive retrofits after construction is complete.
Your commercial contractor should be thoroughly familiar with ADA requirements and ensure all design elements meet current accessibility standards. This includes entrance widths, bathroom facilities, parking spaces, and interior navigation paths.
How Will You Minimize Disruption to My Business During Construction?
Tenant improvements and renovations often require businesses to remain operational during construction. Poor planning can disrupt customer service, reduce revenue, and damage your reputation. To ensure minimal disruption to your daily operations, confirm your contractor has detailed strategies in place, including:
- Scheduling around business hours, with flexible work hours to avoid peak times and busy seasons
- Dust control measures, including physical barriers, advanced filtration, and frequent cleaning
- Noise-reducing equipment and scheduling louder tasks during off-hours
- Secure pathways for both customers and employees at all times
How Do You Handle Changes or Unexpected Issues?
Construction projects rarely proceed exactly as planned. Unexpected conditions, design changes, and material substitutions are common occurrences that can impact cost and timeline. A professional commercial contractor will proactively identify potential issues and present solutions with transparent pricing.
What Warranties and Post-Construction Support Do You Offer?
Quality construction should be backed by comprehensive warranties that protect your investment. Different building components may have varying warranty periods, and you should understand what’s covered.
Ask about the contractor’s process for handling warranty claims and how quickly they respond to post-construction issues. A reputable contractor stands behind their work and maintains relationships with clients long after project completion.
Partner with Utah’s Trusted Commercial Contractor, Arnell-West
Choosing the right contractor for your commercial construction project is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. With nearly 40 years of proven experience, Arnell-West Construction has built a reputation for quality, reliability, and competitive pricing throughout Utah.
Our track record of 100% customer satisfaction and repeat clients demonstrates our commitment to exceeding expectations. From initial planning through final completion, we’ll work closely with you to ensure your project is delivered on time and within budget. Ready to discuss your commercial construction project? Contact Arnell-West Construction today!