Before starting your construction project, making sure you are organized and prepared in advance can help everything go smoothly. Sorting out these components before construction begins is key to a successful project. Selecting a construction manager (CM) who is well-versed in the entire construction process - from concept to completion - to guide you each step of the way is critical to a successful project.
First and foremost, you need to decide upon your project delivery method. What project partners do you want on your team? Do you have an architect in mind? If so, what role will that firm play in the overall project delivery? Have you selected your construction manager? How much oversight and responsibility do you want to exert? The answers to these questions and more will help you determine the method by which your construction project will be designed and built.
Insurance coverage is paramount to any construction project, and there are multiple types of policies. With guidance from your CM, make sure that you’ve secured the necessary coverage. Examples of insurance policies include a building owner’s risk policy, a general liability policy, contractor insurance, performance bonds and more. Make sure all of your project partners are carrying the appropriate insurance policies, too. Know who is purchasing which policies as they relate to covering every aspect of your construction project. Make sure your interests are protected.
Having your own contract signed and in place is an essential step in getting organized to undertake a commercial construction project. Make sure the signed contract specifies details such as who the project players are – from the construction manager to the architectural firm and down through the complete list of subcontractors and trades.
From an organizational standpoint, it’s critical for your CM to prepare a clearly defined plan covering all the major logistics relative to your project. Be sure that you’ve got a written plan on how and when the CM will turn the building over to you, what areas are going to be turned over and how construction traffic will get in and out of your job site.
Having a solid understanding of a critical path schedule for your project is crucial. Your CM will work with you to develop this. It will include issues such as the amount of time estimated to receive any materials needed for your job. For example, it could take six months to get structural steel on site once you’ve awarded the contract to a CM. You really need to understand any potential material delays and which items have long lead times so your project doesn’t stall and lose valuable time waiting for these items.
Your CM can assist you in securing necessary permits from appropriate municipalities, utility companies and others. Early on in planning, be sure to engage in conversations with your local government and others who will be granting you permits so you and they understand what you intend to build and the official permissions you’ll need.
Holland’s experienced construction management team has the skills, knowledge, and resources to help your project succeed. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you plan, manage, and execute your next construction project.
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