The construction business is one in which multiple business are vying for the same jobs, with that wide array sometimes making it difficult for someone simply looking for the right commercial construction company to handle their project. Finding the right company means doing research, which in this case means asking the right questions.

Listed below are five questions that should be asked when you’re considering whether or not to hire a firm. Their answers can often serve as a litmus test that can whittle away the pretenders and focus on the contenders:

What type of background do you have?

Companies that have an established legacy have an established track record that says more than any sales pitch. They likely are bidding the market rate for such projects because they have a strong sense of exactly how much a job will cost. Companies that offer an impossibly-low bid are more than likely cutting corners or lack the experience and are forced to undercut the opposition. In addition, some companies only focus on specific types of buildings, like office structures or storefronts.

What are some of your past projects?

A firm with any background when it comes to construction on the commercial side will be more than happy to offer up examples of their previous efforts. That’s because they know that such work represents the company in the best possible light. Within the question itself, it wouldn’t be improper to ask for references to see if past customers were satisfied with their work and whether they’ve had repeat business from the same company.

What kind of timeline do you have for this particular project?

Businesses in this field should have a timeline prepared from the moment the design process begins to the actual completion of construction. That schedule should have enough flexibility built in to account for inclement weather or other potential delays, so any company that promises quick completion may again be cutting corners to meet deadlines. With respect to those deadlines , if a firm has problem meeting them, it’s best to walk away.

What is your safety record?

Companies that keep good records on safety concerns and address any problems that develop as quickly as possible are happy to offer them as evidence of their ability to keep a project moving. Workplace injuries slow things down and companies that get defensive about their safety record are usually trying to hide something, with serves as a major red flag. Working with a company that takes a lackadaisical approach to the vital concept of safety no doubt will do it in other areas.

Are Your Cost Projections Estimates or Fixed?

An experienced commercial construction company can properly estimate how much a project will cost, since they have established relationships with suppliers. That allows them to input fixed costs that can be trusted to remain the same, rather than blindsiding the client with hidden additional costs that are a source of aggravation for that client. That commercial construction company should be able to offer a list of fixed costs on an invoice.

Feel free to contact Nationwide Construction for your commercial construction needs.