Key Factors for Choosing a National Commercial Construction General Contractor
Selecting the right national commercial construction general contractor is a critical decision that can significantly impact the success of your construction project. Over the past 20+ years, with 2500 completed commercial construction projects, we have learned that it takes more than a great price to win a bid. Our national retail, restaurant, hospitality, senior living, industrial, and automotive clients are very clear about what factors they look for when it comes time to award a project.
Here are some of the critical considerations for choosing a national contractor:
Reputation and Track Record
Developers and property management companies look for a contractor with a strong reputation and a proven track record of delivering high-quality commercial projects. They research their history, completed projects, client testimonials, and industry reputation to assess their credibility and reliability.
At Englewood, we have gained our client’s trust and confidence by understanding their expectations and replicating them across the country. Our reputation as a responsive and reliable partner has allowed us to build long-term relationships over the last twenty years.
Experience and Expertise
Selecting a contractor with extensive experience and expertise in commercial construction, particularly in the type of project you’re undertaking., is essential. Consider their portfolio, relevant qualifications, certifications, and familiarity with industry-specific requirements and regulations.
At Englewood, we have extensive experience in multiple categories, including restaurants, retail, hospitality, senior housing, and cannabis. We have deep experience in these types of projects, including choosing the right local subcontractors for the job and understanding the particulars of local municipality requirements
Resources and Capacity
Evaluate the contractor’s resources, including their workforce, equipment, technology, and subcontractor network. Englewood has the capacity to handle the size and scope of your project without compromising on quality or timeline.
Englewood’s leadership team has prioritized building, vetting, and nurturing a 20,000+ tier-one network of experienced and project-tested subcontractors over the last 22+ years. We value subcontractor partners who deliver on their promises, communicate effectively, and respond promptly to our needs. We believe it enhances our project outcomes, mitigates risks, and supports the overall success of our national construction business.
Safety Record and Practices
Safety should be a top priority when selecting a contractor. Review their safety record, certifications, training programs, and safety protocols to ensure they prioritize the well-being of workers and adhere to occupational health and safety regulations.
Our safety record is stellar. We put a premium on training.
Communication and Collaboration
Choose a contractor with solid communication and collaboration skills. Effective communication is essential for clarifying expectations, addressing concerns, and keeping all stakeholders informed throughout the project. Look for contractors who are responsive, transparent, and proactive in their communication.
Communication and collaboration are critical to our approach to working with all the stakeholders on a construction project, including client management, the architects and engineers, local officials, and the multiple subcontractors we employ on every project.
Project Management Capabilities
Assess the contractor’s project management capabilities, including their ability to develop detailed schedules, manage budgets, coordinate subcontractors, and mitigate risks. Look for contractors who use advanced project management tools and techniques to streamline processes and optimize project outcomes.
ProCore is our primary construction management platform, but our experienced project managers provide the human touch that makes it all work.
Quality of Workmanship
Prioritize contractors known for their commitment to quality workmanship and attention to detail. Review their past projects or visit completed sites to assess the quality of construction, finishes, and craftsmanship.
The Englewood team is exceptionally proud of the quality of our work. If our finished product weren’t top-notch, our clients would not continue to use us. Period. It’s our proven track record of quality workmanship that has allowed us to build so many long-term relationships with our clients
Client References and Relationships
Seek references from past clients to gain insights into their experience working with the contractor. Inquire about their level of satisfaction, communication effectiveness, problem-solving abilities, and overall project experience. Strong client relationships are indicative of a contractor’s commitment to customer service and client satisfaction.
Our clients include Vasa Fitness, BJ’s Brewhouse and Barnes and Noble, to name a few. You can talk to them anytime.
Finally, let’s talk about the old adage of good, fast, and cheap. A transparent contractor will be upfront about the need to pick two. We all know “cheap and fast” results in bad results. “Fast and good” can be more expensive, but the results speak for themselves. We always recommend our clients hire good architects and engineers and allow Englewood to hire great subcontractors. We like to provide value and believe “good” is the only way to go. Going cheap essentially achieves fast and almost never achieves good.
By carefully evaluating these key factors and conducting thorough due diligence, you can select a national commercial contractor that aligns with your project requirements, goals, and values, ultimately setting the stage for a successful construction partnership.
Want to talk about your next project? Reach out to us here.
