5 To Do’s for your Build-Out
1. Use an Architect for SPACE & PLAN DESIGN:
For commercial projects, the local municipality will require plans drawn and stamped by a licensed architect. Typically, local architects better understand the jurisdiction's requirements for tenant improvements and building code requirements. 90 Degree Construction can offer a referral to several architects for your consideration.
2. Get an Itemized ESTIMATE and project timeline:
Always ask for and expect a detailed and itemized cost estimate. A single price bid with no details can be a sign that costs are being hidden or omitted from the estimate. Expect category breakdowns of General Condition Costs (supervision, fuel, etc.), Construction Costs (Labor & Materials), Overhead & Profit and Taxes. All contractors have those costs and should be willing to disclose the specifics. Ensure that the contract you sign consists of the estimate as an appendix.
90 Degree Construction will provide a detailed and itemized estimate free of charge. Actual final costs will be figured based on the architect's final drawings. Also, expect an estimate of the time it will take to complete your project.
The Escape Room Build Out
West Midtown Atlanta
2. Select a CONTRACTOR based on critical criteria:
Licensed & Insured: Hire a licensed contractor. Verify the business and license with the Office of the Secretary of State. Licensed contractors must carry General Liability insurance, which should be issued to you as an "Additional Insured" or "Certificate Holder." A lack of proper insurance coverage is a concern and could create a risk to your investment.
90 Degree Construction Inc. carries insurance with a high-rated company as well as uses only insured subcontractors.
Get references: Your landlord or tenant representative will have a list of reputable contractors to refer to their clients.
You get what you pay for: Expect to receive a reasonable price for the work to be performed, keeping in mind that the cost to correct poor work can easily exceed the low price offered at the beginning. An itemized estimate will head off any uncertainty about what items are covered in costs.
Ask for warranty: The contractor should offer a one-year post-completion warranty on work performed.
90 Degree Construction has over 20 years of construction experience and maintains current licenses in Georgia, Alabama, and South Carolina.
3. Expect UPDATES on the construction process
Construction progress should be monitored to prevent time loss and possible mistakes. The contractor should provide weekly reports comparing the original projected schedule to the actual progress. The reports should include Building Department Inspection Results and Schedule Updates.
4. Know how to handle CONTRACT PAYMENTS AND LIEN WAIVERS
Typically, the industry standard is that work is completed and then billed for on a monthly basis. Most contractors will ask for a deposit once a contract is signed and work commences.
With the weekly progress reports as your guide, verifying the percentage of work billed and completed by the contractor becomes easier. As payments begin, the lien waiver process becomes important. The ability to file a mechanics lien is the contractor and supplier's protection against not being paid for goods and services provided to you. The lien waiver process effectively eliminates or "waives" those rights as you make payments for those goods and services. Lack of clarity in this process can put a project at risk of having unpaid vendors/subcontractors who can file a mechanics lien on the property.
Cafe Build Out
East Cobb Avenue
5. FINALIZE your project correctly
Certificate of Occupancy:
Once work is completed, you should expect several things from your contractor. Most importantly, you need a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) issued by the local jurisdiction. This certificate verifies that the building work has been inspected and approved by the Building and Fire Departments.
Punchlist:
It is not unusual to have a few punch list items, and they should be corrected quickly without issue. Arrange a final walk-through before the contractor receives their final payment and leaves the project. This walk-through aims to identify any items that still need to be finished or corrected. This "Punch List" should be agreed upon by both parties and put in writing.
90 Degree Construction inc. is a full-service commercial general contractor offering preconstruction services, general contracting, design-build, and construction management. With over 20 years of experience, we become a regionally respected leader, handling projects ranging from local businesses opening up shop to large scope landlord work for national shopping center owners.
Contact us today for a free consultation and estimate on your next commercial construction project. info@90degreeinc.com or (678) 758-3995