Do you have a commercial construction project you need done? If you do, you’re probably aware that working with the right commercial construction company plays a huge role in keeping the project running smoothly, within budget, and completed on time. Asking the right questions upfront, before the work starts, helps you avoid costly mistakes and makes sure the company you partner with works well with the specific elements of the job. In places like New Jersey, you also need to know whether the chosen company meets asbestos training requirements, since many construction projects may require asbestos removal. This article will discuss five important questions you should ask when hiring a commercial construction company, and what you should look for in their responses.
Do You Have the Necessary Licenses and Certifications?
Construction, especially commercial construction, is dictated by tons of rules, regulations, and codes in the United States. As a result, one of the first things you should ask is if the company has all the licenses and certifications they need to legally complete the work you need them for. In New Jersey, for example, there are strict asbestos training standards that construction companies need to adhere to. These regulations keep everyone safe when the project involves hazardous materials like asbestos. In fact, OSHA states that companies who handle asbestos need specific certifications demonstrating their compliance with safety regulations that protect workers and the public.
You need to ask for proof of these licenses and certifications. A reputable company will have no problem providing this information, and doing so reassures you that they’re qualified to handle your project safely and legally.
Can You Provide References from Similar Projects?
While not 100% accurate, a good track record is a reliable indicator of future performance. Ask the construction company if they’ve done any projects similar in scope and complexity to yours. Better yet, ask for references, since speaking directly with past clients will give you valuable information on how the company operates, their ability to stay on schedule, manage budgets, and adhere to safety protocols, including asbestos removal if it becomes necessary.
Ideally, they’ll have a few references that can speak to the company’s experience with projects that required asbestos training in NJ. Confirmation that the company successfully met these requirements in the past means that they’ll be able to handle your project effectively.
What Safety Measures Do You Implement?
Any construction project needs safety as a top priority, especially when there’s a chance to deal with hazardous materials like asbestos. Ask about the specific commercial construction safety protocols they have in place. Good commercial construction companies will have clear safety plans and protocols that make sure everyone is trained and equipped to handle potential hazards when they arise.
Effective commercial construction safety protocols play a huge role in preventing accidents and complying with federal and state regulations. New Jersey, for example, has tons of older buildings where asbestos, and therefore indoor air quality, are potential concerns. As a result, NJ companies should have detailed asbestos training records and clear procedures for handling and removing it safely.
How Do You Handle Project Delays and Budget Overruns?
It’s not unheard of for construction projects to be delayed or go over budget. If this happens, you should have an understanding with the company of how they’ll handle these issues. You can gain this understanding by asking for examples of past projects that were delayed or over budget, and how they dealt with the situation.
A reputable company will have protocols in place to address these problems, like contingency planning and regular budget reviews. There should also be open communication regarding anything that could impact the cost or timeline of the project, so you can make decisions before the problems get worse.
What Kind of Communication Can I Expect Throughout the Project?
Any successful construction project requires open, effective communication between company and client. Ask the company how they’ll keep you informed throughout the project. Will there be regular progress updates? Is there a dedicated project manager who will serve as your main contact?
The best commercial construction companies prioritize transparency in their client communications, so you’re always informed about the project’s progress and any challenges. Communications like this prevents misunderstandings and keeps the project running smoothly, which goes a long way for projects with complex requirements like asbestos training in NJ.
Leveraging Commercial Construction Project Management
If you want your project to go smoothly from start to finish, you need to hire the right commercial construction company. In order to do that, you need to ask the right questions, which will give you the information you need to make an informed decision. Remember to verify licenses and certifications, especially those related to asbestos training in NJ, to make sure the company meets all regulatory requirements. When you vet potential contractors like this thoroughly, you can protect your investment and set your project up for success.
