When you’re selecting a tenant improvement contractor, you want a professional who can deliver value without unnecessary hassle or expense. Keeping these five tips in mind as you make your pick can help you to choose wisely.
1. Opt for Experience
While enthusiasm and passion are fantastic qualities, experience is an undeniably valuable commodity in the commercial construction industry. An experienced commercial renovation contractor with an established track record for top-notch commercial tenant improvement projects has a clear understanding of what your project will require. They are aware of how various municipal and state rules and regulations may impact the project. They also have established relationships with local suppliers, subcontractors and authorities. The insights that they’ve gained from past projects can help them spot and solve potential problems before they become significant issues. It’s important to find a tenant improvement contractor who can navigate through the process based on experience. Not what they’ve read online. An experienced contractor will drastically improve your results and save you time, money and headaches.
2. Check the Channels of Communication
Do you want to make economic improvements that result in a space that’s tailored to meet the needs of your tenants? To achieve that, select a commercial renovation contractor who will listen to what you want and discuss the various ways to reach your goals. Clear, open communication throughout the construction process also offers assurance that everything is proceeding smoothly and makes navigating any bumps in the road less nerve-wracking. A few questions to consider are:
- Are you confident that you can connect with the contractor?
- Are you comfortable with their communication style?
- What is the frequency and depth of the updates they provide?
Before hiring a commercial contractor for a tenant build-out, make sure that their communication style is a good match for you.
3. Remember That Creative Solutions Expand Your Options
Maximizing the return on your investment requires partnering with a contractor who isn’t afraid to think outside the box. Cookie-cutter tenant improvement plans may get the job done; but, creative designs that make optimal use of your space and resources can get the job done more effectively and produce a better outcome. Experienced tenant improvement contractors are aware of the pros and cons of a wide range of products, methods and approaches. They use the insights that they’ve gained while completing past projects to deliver superior results for you.
4. Appreciate Professionalism
Working with an experienced commercial renovation professional who takes pride in their work creates a smoother process. A few questions are:
- Is the commercial contractor knowledgeable?
- Are they responsive when approached with questions or concerns?
- Can they provide accurate estimates and deliver results while staying on budget?
- Do they have a reputation for completing projects in the time promised?
A true professional will embrace these requests to make sure you fully understand the process. After all, tenant build-outs is not what you do full-time. It’s important to work with a contractor who will answer all questions and state the process in the simplest terms.
5. Prioritize Quality
While renovation cost is a prominent factor, it should never be the deciding card when choosing a tenant improvement contractor. Quality workmanship and excellent service have real value. When reviewing bids for your tenant improvement construction project, look beyond the numbers. Does the contractor’s bid demonstrate a clear understanding of the project’s requirements? Is the contractor planning to use quality materials and a skilled workforce? Will they stand behind their work with a guarantee or warranty?
Are you searching for a tenant improvement contractor you can trust? With more than 40 years of experience in commercial and industrial construction, CBF Contracting is ready to meet all your commercial construction needs. Contact us today at 814-745-3000 to discuss your project requirements.
