6 Questions to Ask when Hiring a Commercial Construction Company
6 Questions to Ask when Hiring a Commercial Construction Company
Construction can be a very competitive industry, with several companies fighting for the same jobs. This can sometimes make it difficult for the owners to select the right person for their particular job. In this case, it’s up to the owners to ask the right questions. We list the top 6 questions you should ask as an owner before hiring a construction firm.
What to Ask:
1. What construction background do you have?
A construction company that can show you their track record is likely going to give you a bid that is in line with the market cost, because they are knowledgeable in their field. Some companies also specialize in one particular type of building like offices or schools.
Here at A.C. Owen we have a proven track record and a long list of projects under our belt including working with The Chickasaw Ballpark, Little Axe Public School and Mustang Town Center.
2. What are some of your past projects?
Always ask for examples of past projects from any firm you are considering hiring. Any company that has done previous work that they are proud of will be more than happy to hand over several examples. Not to mention, asking for references is also a great way to get a feel for a firm and their previous work. The type of projects a firm generally works with may also determine exactly who you should be working with. Need a gym built but only one firm has built a gym in the past? It’s a pretty safe bet that they are the ones that will know the most about that particular job.
A.C. Owen has experience in churches, schools, government facilities, professional offices, remodels, tenant improvements, and more.
3. What kind of timeline do you foresee for this project?
This industry is vastly reliant on timelines. The schedule should have enough flexibility to account for inclement weather (something we can’t avoid here in Oklahoma). If your company is giving you a timeline that seems impossible, they may have to cut corners to complete your project when promised.
A.C. Owen will always give you a timeline of when you should expect work to be completed along with the cost estimate. Your Superintendent will also be keeping you in the loop on what is going on with your project, because communication is key.
4. What sort of safety record do you have?
Injuries in the work place slow down processes and reflect poorly on the company. Working with a company that takes their safety seriously is ALWAYS the best way to go. They have their worker’s best interests and YOUR best interests at heart.
ACO works with a third-party safety consultant and has a comprehensive safety program to ensure the safety of our subcontractors, customers, employees and site visitors. We are proud of our safety record. We have ZERO incidents to date!
5. Are your cost projections estimates or fixed?
A client’s main concern is generally the bottom line. An established construction company is able to accurately estimate the cost of a project because they have established relationships with subcontractors and vendors. This allows the company to include fixed costs that the client can trust to remain the same.
A.C. Owen does not rely on computer software to “guess” at what something should cost. Documented historical data, on-going design-build project estimates and being a part of the “Hard Bid” market gives us a constant feel for where the market is and it reflects in our sharp budgeting and estimating services.
6. What sort of build options do you offer?
No two projects are the same. What might work for one owner, might not work for another. That’s why it’s important to make sure the firm you are questioning offers the right service for your project. Having the right service will save you time, money and headache.
At A.C. Owen we offer several service options including: General Contracting, Construction Management and Design Build.
To summarize:
You are making a very big decision when you pick your Commercial Construction Company. You want to ensure you can trust who you are working with to provide you with their best work and never steer you in the wrong direction. Meeting before hiring and airing out all of your questions is a great way to get a fee for a company. Remember – here at ACO we offer Free Consultations! Reach out if you have a project you would like to discuss, we would be happy to talk with you!
A.C. Owen Construction has locations in Oklahoma City and Tulsa. Contact us today and learn more about what we can do for your construction projects!
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