Things to Know before Hiring a Commercial Contractor

Construction projects need someone who can keep the project on time and on budget. The longer a construction job takes, the more expensive it becomes. Not only do the costs rise because of wages, but income suffers as the business isn't able to use the new facility for its work. Hiring a commercial contractor should be the answer to keeping projects within acceptable parameters both time- and budget-wise. Here are some tips to finding a great contractor.

Time in Business

A contractor that's been around a while has not only proven his or her value but also has a body of work that you can examine, and a number of clients you can talk to. That doesn't mean that a new contractor is bad; instead, hiring a contractor who hasn't had much experience means you'll be taking a risk. Most projects can't handle that risk. Hiring a contractor that has references and a completed body of work mitigates one of the most important risk factors in and commercial construction job. Of course, just because a contractor has longevity, doesn't mean he or she is the right person for your job. Be sure to check out the past jobs and references before you hire someone for the job.

Good Communication Skills

Contractors need to be able to communicate the specifics of a project and how they will affect the deadline. Because they coordinate the work, sometimes between different companies, a good contractor needs to be a good communicator. If the contractor has a difficult time getting back to you or providing you with the information you need in a timely fashion during the bid process, it probably won't change during the project. It cannot be overstated that projects are brought in on time and on budget through good communication. When you're examining a contractor's bid, make sure that it has everything in it. No projected cost should be left out of the bid, and if something is, you may think about going with a different company.

Coverage and Safety

Any time you bring another company to property you own, you're taking a risk. Unless that company has the required insurance, if an employee of another company gets hurt while on your property, you could be held liable for workman's comp and other claims. The contractor you hire should have coverage that will take the financial responsibility off your shoulders should a contracted employee get hurt.

While insurance is necessary, it's better if no one gets hurt at all. Most accidents can be prevented, but sometimes they happen. What you don't want is to hire a contractor that has a poor safety track record or uses questionable safety practices. Contractors shouldn't just follow the minimum safety precautions required by the law and OSHA. They should do better. Hiring a contractor with a great safety record helps make sure your construction site remains safe and doesn't experience any delays due to injury or death.

Other Considerations

A local contractor often has an edge over someone who's from out of town. They have contacts and know people in the business, so they can overcome problems faster than someone who has to do more research. If you need a commercial contractor in Los Angeles, CA, contact JH Bryant, JR.