Category Archives: Commercial Contractor

The Benefits of Hiring an Owner’s Representative

Posted on July 9, 2019 by Kinghorn Construction Benefits of Hiring an Owner’s Representative

Like the owner of every construction project, you want yours done on time, within budget, and in-line with your vision.

But that’s easier said than done, especially without industry knowledge. If that’s the case, an Owner’s Representative can save the day – or project. To help you decide if it’s the right move for you, we’ve outlined the benefits of hiring an Owner’s Representative.

What Is an Owner’s Representative?

It’s all in the name: An Owner’s Representative (OR) is someone hired to represent the owner of a construction project throughout its management and execution. In commercial construction specifically, these individuals have an extensive track record of overseeing successful jobs.

Using that industry experience and expertise, the OR ensures the project is completed to the owner’s requirements in terms of time, money, and overall design. Because of their knowledge and in-depth role in the project, the earlier an OR becomes involved the better, ideally right from the beginning.

Why Would You Want to Hire an Owner’s Representative?

Construction projects are time-consuming for an owner.

Things change, and issues arise. Often. Your contractors and consultant teams will need answers to questions. Change orders and requests will come in for approval. And more.

Staying on top of it all takes time, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the processes. The benefits of hiring an Owner’s Representative cover both issues: this person is well-versed in these everyday issues AND fully dedicated to handling them with your best interests in mind. Now you can get back to your day job and free time.

Complicated decisions require experience and expertise.

Truth be told, even the seemingly simple ones do, too. Just one small change in materials can have long-term effects that eventually add costs. An Owner’s Rep knows what needs to happen and can foresee the impacts of certain decisions. Having one on your team from the beginning to make timely, knowledgeable decisions keeps things on schedule and within budget.

Truth be told, even the seemingly simple ones do, too. Just one small change in materials can have long-term effects that eventually add costs. An Owner’s Rep knows what needs to happen and can foresee the impacts of certain decisions. Having one on your team from the beginning to make timely, knowledgeable decisions keeps things on schedule and within budget.

Controversial/complex issues will arise.

This goes beyond the previous two points. Not every issue or question will have a clear and easy solution, and you’ll want advice to find the right one. Having a qualified Owner’s Rep on your team to discuss possible solutions helps you make the best possible decision for you and your business.

Additionally, your Owner’s Rep can handle conflict resolution, whether it’s budgetary or just difficult people on the job. Thanks to years of on-the-job experience, they’re able to recognize and stay in front of these issues, creating resolutions before they make a serious impact on your project.

A successful commercial construction project comes down to properly managing the resources, time, and money put into it. Hiring an Owner’s Rep gives you a partner with comprehensive construction management experience and who is committed to your best interests. Contact the experienced Owner’s Representative team at Kinghorn Construction to learn more.

Three Things to Consider Before Hiring a Commercial Contractor

Posted on September 17, 2018 by Kinghorn Construction Hiring a Commercial Contractor

Hiring a commercial contractor is an important decision for the future and growth of your company. This decision will set the tone for your entire project. No matter your business, taking time to consider your options and learn all you can about a commercial contractor will be nothing but beneficial. Read through these three things to consider before hiring a commercial contractor and then contact us to learn about our commercial construction services, industries we serve, and available financial resources.

Experience

The first thing to consider before hiring a commercial contractor is how much experience the company has. A contractor’s body of work and length of time in business will help you determine if they’ll be the right fit for your project.

Look into past projects and clients. Did they do a good job? Are the clients happy? Does the commercial contractor provide referrals or testimonials? What does a typical job look like for them?

Are niche projects their specialty, or do they serve a variety of industries? The answers to these questions will help guide you to a commercial contractor that fits your company’s needs. Finding answers to these questions will help you know exactly what you’re looking for in a commercial construction project management team.

Communication

Good communication is key to excelling at any type of project, especially before hiring a commercial contractor. Steady, efficient, and informative communication from the contractor will ensure the project gets done right – on time, on budget. Figure out your main point of contact before signing with a company. Make sure they are flexible enough to meet your communication needs. Do they respond in a timely manner? Will they be easily accessible throughout the project?

Under the umbrella of communication, it’s also important to check that the commercial contractor’s bid includes all expenses. A bid should account for all costs. If there’s something important missing from the estimate, inform your commercial contractor so they can give you a revised bid.

Safety and Insurance Coverage

The third thing to consider before hiring a commercial contractor is safety and insurance coverage. Safety is the most important thing for any construction project. Review the contractor’s work practices and what they do on a day-to-day basis to ensure not only their employees’ safety, but the safety of your employees as well.

In addition to everyday safety policies, your commercial contractor should have general liability and workers’ compensation insurance coverage. That way, you won’t be liable for any injury or damage that occurs while the commercial contractor is working on your project/property.

For more information about what to consider before hiring a commercial contractor or for questions about our process or financial resources, contact Kinghorn Construction today.