Renovations or construction need to be performed quickly. Many contractors are necessary to complete the job, and trying to keep track of everything can be stressful. When making repairs to an office building, there is no time to waste. When hiring a general contractor, most of the hard work is out of your hands – except for managing the operation. Here are a few tips to keep things clear and on track!

Tip 1: Schedule

By formatting a set schedule, beyond just a deadline, tasks are more likely to become completed in a timely manner. Not to mention, as the property owner, stress will be relieved with every daily box that can be checked off. If you know what is supposed to be done, you can tell when the work is getting behind (or with luck, ahead!). By working with the contractor to make this schedule, expectations can be reasonable and all parties can agree on the information.

Tip 2: Cost Estimation

Make sure to get a detailed estimation for the project. Every aspect and fine detail should be explained in order to avoid surprise costs and make a higher likelihood of accuracy. Compare contractors and see what seems like the best option and most valuable for your money. Also, communicate with the contractor and express particular materials you would prefer, if such an emotion exists. Get everyone on the same page.

Tip 3: Contractor Reputation

How well have previous employers enjoyed the contractor’s services? Now it is easier than ever to check this – simply by looking online. Nearly every business on the planet has a rating through a variety of sites. Also feel free to ask the contractor for references before hiring. Are the employees professional? Will they be swearing on the job? Make sure the standards of the contractor meet yours.

Tip 4: Insurance

Contractors should have insurance – accurate, updated insurance. Ask to see this before beginning a project to ensure that nothing is accidentally forgotten about (such as an expired policy). If anything goes wrong in the process, such as accident or injury, you want to make sure your money is not at stake. The insurance makes it easy for you to know any mistakes are not your responsibility.

Tip 5: Make a Contract

A major mistake is to forget about making a contract. Without one, a contractor may not be liable for any poor work done. Not to mention, this opens the door for the contractor to ask for more than was originally requested. Make sure all aspects of the project are written out. Do not assume that nothing could go wrong with the obvious – if the contractor is to buy the materials, make sure that is marked down. No matter who the contractor is, friend or family, a contact is absolutely in your best interest in order to avoid issue or miscommunication.