When it comes to construction projects, choosing the right Contractor is one of the most important decisions you will make as it directly impacts the entire construction process. Working with a Builder who is not a good fit for your project can lead to delays, budget overruns, and subpar results.
To help you make an informed decision, this blog will run you through three key tips for selecting a reliable Contractor. And if you want to streamline the process and get expert help in making these kinds of crucial decisions, hiring a Client-Side Project Manager or Owner’s Representative could be your best option.
Note: In this post, the terms “Contractor,” “Builder,” and “Construction company” are used interchangeably, as they often are in the industry.
1. Do Your Research
The first step to finding the right Contractor is informed research. This is more complex than it sounds, especially if you are unfamiliar with the industry standards, or if it is your first project and you do not know what kind of contract to choose or what construction company can properly execute your vision.
However complicated, this is still a suitable step to start. If you want to learn more about the fundamentals of construction, we recommend you check out our free resources on the website. It is ideal to seek out Contractors who have experience with projects similar in scope and complexity to yours. Look into their portfolio, past projects, and reputation. Here are the key steps in the research phase:
Key Steps:
- Utilise online resources and industry networks: Review sites, construction forums, and industry associations can give you valuable insights into a contractor’s reputation. Make sure to read reviews from various sources to get a well-rounded picture.
- Check reviews and testimonials: Consistent positive feedback is a good indicator of a reliable Contractor. Be wary of Contractors with a pattern of negative reviews or complaints.
- Request references and ask key questions: Ask for at least three references from past clients and contact them directly. Key questions to ask:
- Was the project completed on time?
- Were there many variations, and were they approved in advance?
- How was the quality of the work?
Extra Tip: Google their business name and director’s names to check for any potential red flags, such as court cases, news articles, or poor reviews. This will help you avoid Contractors with a history of legal or financial issues.
2. Verify The Contractor's Credentials and Experience
What are the key differences between the two roles?
Once you have narrowed down your list of contractors, it is essential to verify their credentials and experience. This step is critical for avoiding unqualified Contractors who may lack the necessary skills, licensing, or insurance to complete your project successfully.
Key Steps:
- Check licensing and insurance: In Australia, it is crucial to ensure that the contractor holds the necessary licenses for the work you are commissioning. You can check licenses via the NSW License Portal to ensure they are legitimate and up to date. For more complex projects, especially class 2 buildings, confirm if the contractor needs DBP Act accreditation.
- Request copies of licenses and certifications: Do not just take a contractor’s word for it. Ask to see documentation that proves they are qualified for the job. This includes insurance, which is vital to protecting both you and the contractor in case of accidents or damage.
- Assess their experience with similar projects: Contractors who have successfully completed projects like yours will be more likely to navigate challenges and deliver high-quality work. Ask for a portfolio of their past work that aligns with your project’s scope.
Extra Tip: Check the ASIC website to ensure their ABN (Australian Business Number) is active. A contractor with an inactive or invalid ABN may signal financial or operational issues, which could put your project at risk.
3. Hire a Client-Side Project Manager
While researching and vetting contractors can be time-consuming, hiring a Client-Side Project Manager (PM) or Owner’s Representative can simplify this process. These professionals are experts in managing construction projects and have a vast network of reputable Contractors, Builders and Subcontractors.
Key Benefits:
- Time and Money Savings: A Client-Side PM will save you time by handling the legwork of contractor selection and negotiations. With their extensive knowledge of market rates, they can help you secure the best deals.
- Expertise in Contractor Vetting: They know how to assess contractors thoroughly and select those who align with your project’s specific needs. They will help manage the entire process, from contractor selection to overseeing the construction itself.
- Risk Mitigation: A Client-Side Project Manager ensures that your project remains on schedule and within budget, reducing risks such as delays, cost overruns, or quality issues.
By leveraging the expertise of a Client-Side Project Manager or Owner’s Representative, you can confidently navigate the complexities of contractor selection and ensure that the contractor chosen is a perfect fit for your project. Note that this role should not be confused with that of the Contractor-Side Project Manager, who is hired by the builder.
Selecting the right contractor can make or break your construction project, but with proper research, credential verification, and the expert guidance of a Client-Side Project Manager, you can ensure a successful outcome. A Client Side Project Manager is an investment in an expert representative to facilitate the delivery of a Construction project on the Client’s behalf. They use specialised tools, training and knowledge that may not be otherwise available to a client in-house and are obligated to represent the Client’s interests.
If you are looking to simplify your contractor selection process and ensure your project is completed to the highest standards, contact us or request a proposal for our website. We specialise in project management solutions for all kinds of construction projects – from residential homes to large-scale Capital Works.
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