Construction Companies: Deciding on The Best One for You

Whether it is a full home renovation or a simple bathroom facelift, choosing the right construction company can be tough. Finding one amongst the masses that suits your specific needs and won’t charge you exorbitant fees is a time-consuming task.

Before you start looking around, you need to first figure out what it is you want, what your budget is, and what style you are looking for. Once you have a clear understanding of this, you will be able to make a more educated choice.

While the basic processes and safety procedures involved in construction are maintained across different companies, each is most likely to offer their own take on how to run with a project.

The clearer your vision for the project the better your chances of selecting the construction company that best suits your needs.

There are however some key factors you can’t dismiss and should play a role when weighing up your different options.

The last thing you want is to be stuck with half-finished work, overspending on your budget, and feeling frustrated. That is why we have put together a few tips to help you choose a construction company that is right for you.

So, what makes a good construction company?

·         Experience

When looking at your choice of construction companies opt for one that has been around for a while, has good references, and is reliable. Don’t be afraid to ask for references from previous work done. You do not want to be someone else’s guinea pig.

Looking at earlier projects can help you gauge whether the type of work they have done previously suits your needs. If you have a particular style in mind, this can steer you into the right direction, and narrow down your choices.

You want to feel that they understand exactly what it is you are looking for and interpret it as best as possible.

·         Licensed

There are many companies out there who are not properly licensed and insured to complete the job. Any construction company that cannot confidently state they are licensed and show proof of such documentation should be avoided. If anything were to go wrong, you stand the chance of getting into a messy lawsuit, ending up with shoddy work and a hole in your pocket.

When you find a construction company that speaks to you, then asking for their licensing documentation would be the next step before you go further.

There is no shame in asking for licensing and official documents, as it is your responsibility to make sure the construction company you are using is legally allowed to be doing the work.

·         Time management

Being able to do the work is one thing, but actually sticking to a set deadline is equally as important. You should look at companies that can produce a timeline for your project before you get started, or at least are able to give some guidance on expectations.

As experts in the industry, they should be able to keep track and keep you updated during the process.

While things can go wrong at times, having a construction company that communicates openly and honestly on any time constraints can contribute to your overall experience during what can be a stressful situation.

You may be very excited to start right away, but don’t be put off by a company that can only help at a later stage.

It is rare that a construction company has the ability to run with your project from the first day of contact – which is probably a good thing as it means they do have other clients too. Rather make sure you are comfortable before jumping straight in.

·         The right equipment

While you may assume all construction companies have the right tools and equipment to do the job, make sure you look out for the types of tools they are using. Although you may not be the expert, you can tell if something is outdated and should be replaced.

Go with your gut on this one: anything that looks archaic probably is. Avoid any headaches and unexpected costs due to poor tools from the get-go.

·         Good workmanship

Skilled workers are key to getting the job done – and done well. From the mechanics, truck drivers, and foremen, if everyone puts their best efforts in then you should expect the best results.

If the project manager is on top of things then the likelihood of the rest of the team working hard, and well, is pretty high. A tight-knit team means everyone is there for the same goal and ready to do their best to make your project a reality.

Good construction companies have wide teams who will work on your project from start to finish, without having to hand you off to external parties. If they can only deliver on a couple of aspects, then you may need to rethink your decision.

If a construction company cannot complete the project as a whole, then you should look elsewhere. The last thing you need to do is be the middleman when there are companies that can run with the entire project.

·         Budget consideration

Of course, certain projects will have higher costs, depending on your end goal, but knowing your budget and having a construction company that values this is important. Similarly, be cautious of costs that appear much lower than other quotes, as it may point to cheap materials and labour. If it is too good to be true, then it probably is.

You should receive a quote that embodies the entirety of the project, with no fine print or hidden costs. The ultimate goal is to reach an understanding of the scope and only accept comprises where you are comfortable to negotiate.

·         Safety conscious

Construction sites are commonly known as hazardous accident zones. One slightly wrong step and someone can get injured severely. Construction companies that put safety high up on their list should be the ones you consider. If they are serious about their employee’s safety, and your safety, it shows they put care and consideration into their work.

·         Understands design

A construction company that has an understanding of architectural design can be the difference between creating a house and a home.

The importance of using the correct building materials, and in the correct way, can impact on your costs, structural fragility and integrity in the long run.

If there are any extreme conditions or a natural disaster were to occur, such as earthquakes or heavy storms, then the likelihood of it withstanding these external factors will be rather low.

Make sure you ask about the materials the construction company is considering and ask them how these would withstand extreme weathering.

·         Attitude

When consulting with a construction company they should be understanding of your needs, input their suggestions, and make sure your dream home comes to life. You should feel comfortable and have a sense of trust at the get-go.

Certain projects may take very long to complete, which is why a good working relationship with transparency is key. You will want to build a relationship that is open to negotiation and constructive feedback is welcomed from both parties.

Looking at reviews online can be a good start to find out how other people have experienced their services, helping you avoid any unnecessary future drama.

Taking the plunge and deciding on a construction company need not be too daunting a task. If you work with the checklist above and take it one step at a time, you will be sure to make the best choice.

If you have a new project you are looking into, we can confidentially say that the renov8 team can get you there, from start to finish.

With the best deals, a tight-knit team, in-house tradesmen, and reliability like no other, we promise transparency and refined, high-quality craftsmanship on all our projects.

If you’re looking for construction companies in Surrey, contact us – let us make your dream a reality.