Top questions to ask a contractor before hiring them

Are you looking for an expert in commercial contracting Houston? Then you would need someone who does more than construction. They should be able to bring your vision to life. No matter how big or small your project is, they can help.

You could be building a retail store or an office complex. These are the questions you should ask before you sign on the dotted line-

[1] What is your experience with projects similar to mine?

Not all contractors have experience with every type of project. A company that specializes in residential construction may not be equipped to manage a commercial office build out. Likewise, a contractor experienced with small retail spaces may struggle with a large industrial facility.

Why is this question important?

You need a contractor who can understand the nuances of the project. The question will help you judge their capability. You can see samples of their previous work. Ask to see a portfolio of similar projects they have done, which will give you a sense of their experience. You can then decide if they are good enough.

[2] How long will it take to complete my project? 

Time is of the essence in commercial contracting Houston. Delays will cause businesses to lose much more than they may imagine: losses can begin from missed deadlines to disrupted operations. A proper timeline will keep the project on the right track.

Why is this question important?

This question will help you understand how organized the contractor is. It will show how realistic their planning process is. A good contractor let you know the timeline.

[3] How do you manage your team?

There are many commercial contractors who do not perform all the work themselves. They often rely on a network of subcontractors/suppliers. This is standard practice. But the quality of your project depends on how well those relationships are managed.

Why is this question important?

Poorly managed subcontractors can lead to delays. They can cost overruns and do subpar work. What happens when you ask this question? You will get an understanding of how they ensure the people working on your project are qualified/reliable. You also want to know how they resolve any conflicts that may arise.

[4] How will you handle permits?

Commercial construction often requires local permits and regulations. Your contractor will need to ensure that everything is up to code. It is their duty to make sure your project passes all necessary inspections.

Why is this question important?

A good contractor should handle all permits and inspections. This can save you the headache of dealing with all this. Ask them how familiar they are with local building codes. You must inquire if they have run into any issues with permits on past projects. You want to be sure that your contractor is proactive. They should be able to handle this crucial aspect of the job efficiently.

In short

You need to ask the above questions when hiring someone for commercial contracting Houston. A good contractor can bring your vision to life. A bad one can give you a headache. This is why you pick an expert wisely.