Whether you are well versed in the commercial renovation space or not, there are important things to consider asking your contractor before getting your hands dirty. When you ask these questions, you are making sure that you are fully prepared for the project beforehand.
In general, your contractor has the most influence when it comes to the success rate of your renovation plans. This means that you will need to pick the right one in order to ensure that your end product is done the way you want it. Hiring a professional at Lions Den Construction is a good way to be certain that your project is executed properly and in the most visually pleasing way possible.
In this post, we are going to focus on the five questions that the majority of clients ask when planning a renovation for their commercial space, and answer them accordingly.
How Much Will It Cost?
This question is one of the most common, and for good reason. Everyone wants to know what they are getting into financially when taking on a big project such as this. A proper estimate will take all factors into consideration, and will require a realistic mindset.
The answer to this question is unfortunately not always 100% accurate. During a project like this, there are a bunch of hurdles to overcome, and obstacles that get in the way. This often causes the cost to fluctuate, and is often tied to issues such as staffing, material arrivals, and system interferences (electrical, plumbing, etc).
In order to avoid some of the frustration when costs fluctuate throughout the process, many contractors will recommend a fixed cost, so the project will have a maximum rate. A reliable contractor will make sure to stick within the budget stated, and bring down costs in any way they can.
How Long Will It Take?
This is one of, if not the most common questions a client will ask before beginning a renovation. This makes sense, as a project like this can often be seen as a pretty big one. You want to make sure that it fits well within your schedule, and the only way of doing that is by getting an estimate.
This type of project can be seen as a very exciting one, because most times it will completely transform the space and in turn, the environment within it. Unfortunately, just like the previous question, this one is met with uncertainty because it depends on how well the project is planned beforehand. A good contractor will sit down with the client(s) and make sure everything is pre-planned as much as it possibly can be. They will provide an estimate on arrival times for certain materials, as well as the average time window each stage in a renovation will take. A contractor that cares about your wants and needs will make sure that they have enough time allotted for each and every renovation stage. When this is planned out properly, a successful end product won’t be far out of reach.
As a general rule, no direct schedule for a renovation should be set. Things will constantly change/move around, and you will want a schedule that works well with that type of process.
Can Work Still Be Done While The Construction Takes Place?
Many offices will want to continue work as much as possible during a construction project to avoid too much downtime. Hiring an entire team of construction workers can make the area both crowded and messy, so it is in your greatest interest when a contractor helps you set up a work schedule.
This question also depends on your area/field of work. Sometimes, your contractor will only need access to a certain space, giving you and your coworkers the freedom to work as much as you desire. If you believe that your staff can continue being productive with a little bit of noise and debris, then by all means keep them working. A good construction team will be good at closing off their own work area and keeping debris to a minimum.
If you think that a lot of the work that needs to be done will interfere with your office space and productivity, sometimes it is best to just look into alternative office spaces for temporary use. While you may physically be able to occupy the space, getting work done is a whole other problem. When the noises and distractions take place during an office renovation, it can sometimes be too much to handle, and will in turn impede greatly on any and all productivity and drive. In this case, going to a separate place and working there is a great alternative that keeps everyone on task. It provides itself as a benefit for not only you and your coworkers, but for the construction team as well.
Are Permits Required?
This question is short and simple- yes, you will need permits. At least for most things. This process is something that your contractor will help you with. They will help figure out which ones to apply for, as well as which ones you don’t need to apply for. If, for example, you are overhauling the entire space, you will want to get mostly everything permit-wise. If it is a smaller project, the answer will most likely be different and less demanding. The best way to know which permits you need is by contacting your local municipal office. It is also important to remember that these permits must be approved, as well as shown on a work site prior to beginning construction.
Who Is In Charge Of Design?
Many people would assume that the contractor also happens to be a designer and architect, but this is not always the case. A contractor is a person who strictly takes care of the process- the part where designs come to life through physical labour. Sometimes, they may be the ones who draw the blueprints, other times not.
How We Can Help
Here at Lions Den Construction, we offer both construction and design services. This means that your project can be done to full completion, in the most beautiful and professional way possible. If you would like to learn more about our custom commercial construction in Toronto, be sure to call us at (416) 893-8318 today. We look forward to answering any additional questions you may have!
