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.

The Differences Between Residential and Commercial Construction

Posted on August 20, 2018 by Kinghorn Construction

The construction industry is divided into two main categories – residential and commercial. While similar, these two industries have many differences, from types of materials used to cost variations. Here are the main differences between residential and commercial construction.

Size Distinctions

The most obvious difference between commercial and residential construction projects is that one has a larger scope and difficulty. Residential buildings have smaller floor plans to accommodate simple living needs. More complex commercial buildings, the uses of which vary, require a sturdier frame and many times, more complicate design.

Different Materials for Different Projects

Materials differ from project to project, but there is a distinct difference in materials used for residential and commercial construction.

Residential construction relies on cost-effective materials suitable for smaller buildings. Housebuilders often use inexpensive yet sturdy timber frames for the structure of residential buildings.

Larger and taller commercial buildings, however, require steel frames for a more resilient, sturdy structure.

Clientele

Residential and commercial construction projects involve two distinct types of clientele. Residential builders work for one client with specific demands regarding their personal choices for themselves and their family. Commercial building projects involve a team of stakeholders within an organization who most likely have laid out their goals and specific budget for the project.

Money, Money, Money

Costs for residential construction projects compared to commercial construction projects are very different – even if they’re comparatively sized. Many factors go into the cost of construction projects including material selection, compliance maintenance, employee skill, and labor expenses.

Commercial construction buildings are bigger projects and run on a tight schedule; this is not always the case for residential projects. The difference in cost comes from those two factors. Experienced laborers working more hours and more expensive materials impact the budge of commercial projects.

Kinghorn Construction strives to provide high quality design-build services and construction management for commercial buildings. Contact us today to learn how we can bring your commercial construction project to life.

Choosing a Construction Site

Posted on July 18, 2018 by Kinghorn Construction

Choosing where to construct your building is the first and most important step in the commercial construction process. Your building location will directly impact many things during construction, as well as after the building is finished. Therefore, it’s imperative to take the following into consideration when choosing a construction site.

Double Check the Building Code

Since area building codes can vary, it’s important to look into the local building code and make sure your project will fit within guidelines. On top of that, inspection and permit wait times vary depending on what the city or county. Work with an experienced design build firm that knows the area to assist with both verifying building codes and making sure you get an inspection and permit on time.

Budget Construction Costs

Another factor you need to consider when choosing a construction site is how much it will cost to build there. The location can impact your budget if the land needs grading or excavation before construction can start. Whether water and sewer lines are already in place or not is also be a factor to consider. Consider costs of building materials and labor when creating a budget. Getting estimates on everything before you sign on the dotted line will help you complete your project within your budget.

Inspect the Topography and Soil

Inspecting the quality of the soil and the topography of a piece of land is an essential step when choosing a construction site. Moist or loose soil is a poor foundation for any type of building. Rocky and clay soils require specialized equipment to make them safe for construction. It’s important to know what type of soil you’re working with can influence the decision of where to break ground.

Inspecting the surface features of the land is vital to determine not only if the location is fit for a construction site, but also if it will maintain its current condition depending on erosion risks. Make the future of your project bright by knowing exactly what type of natural landscape you’re working with.

Is it Accessible?

Lastly, it’s important to look into accessibility options for the construction site. Different sized vehicles carrying various materials and utilities need to get in and out of the construction site without any obstructions. Access to the site also needs to be safe and convenient so the job can get done in a timely manner. Cross site options that require creating accessibility off your list.

For further information on choosing a construction site, or to learn more about our construction management process, contact us today.

 

The Kinghorn Construction Office

Posted on May 24, 2018 by Kinghorn Construction

Not long ago, as the Kinghorn Construction business continued to grow, we recognized the need for larger, consolidated office and shop space. Like many of our clients, we needed a space that could both accommodate our day-to-day business needs and reflect who we are as a company. The search began for a new Kinghorn Construction location.

 

OUR NEW OFFICE

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Of course, with our history and connection to the town, we wanted to stay in Rogers. Our search led us to our current building on Industrial Court in Rogers, a building that we completely renovated to meet our needs. The new office features an open, welcoming atmosphere, spacious conference and meeting areas, and room to grow. We moved in the spring of 2015. We’re proud to showcase our capabilities to visitors and clients, and we hope that you’ll stop by to see for yourself.

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When the time comes for your business to remodel, renovate, or relocate, trust the commercial construction experts at Kinghorn Construction. We’ll work closely with you to determine the best options, whether you’re staying in your current space or need to move to a larger facility. Our vast knowledge, decades of commercial construction experience, and dedication to your ultimate satisfaction result in the highest quality work and the peace of mind you need. Learn more about our construction services, including design/build, pre-construction, construction management, and owners representation, and view our online photo gallery of recent remodeling projects for inspiration.

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Every business is unique, with different needs at different stages. Kinghorn Construction understands that. If you’ve reached the stage that requires you to update your office space or relocate the company to a new facility, contact the construction and remodeling professionals at Kinghorn Construction. Call 763.428.8088 to schedule an initial meeting today.