By Steve Juzefyk

The early stages of a construction project are often the most important, as the decisions made during this phase will determine many important aspects of the overall plan. Typically, the pre-construction phase will determine the objectives, time frames, costs, procedures, as well as many other logistical issues, as well as conceptual preparations. While this process can vary from project to project or depend on variables like time or budget, there are a few basic elements which contractors and their clients alike can expect to encounter during the pre-construction phase of any project.

During this phase, architectural design and blueprints will be determined and prepared. Architectural characteristics will be affected by the client’s desires and needs, recommendations from those actually handling the construction project, and by what the site will allow. This stage will include a survey of the site, as this is important in determining the best design for the structure. It will also ensure ADA compliance, identify potential access issues, and determine mechanical, electrical, and plumbing arrangements. These aspects will be finalized with the approval of the client. Communication between client and contractor during this stage is very important in ensuring both an efficiently completed and satisfactory project.

Another important part of this phase is to obtain and/or review any necessary building permits. Once the necessary permits are identified, requests and associated paperwork should be completed and submitted as earlier in this phase as possible as delays can happen for any number of reasons. Furthermore, getting building permits out of the way early will prevent legal complications from interfering with or interrupting the project later down the road, thus keeping construction on schedule and avoiding possible fines or legal action.

Pre-construction is also the time for establishing basic time frames. Building a flexible but detailed schedule should be a priority. The schedule will depend on the scale of the project, availability of materials, budget, and other factors. Routine inspections, which will ensure site safety, should also be periodically included in the schedule. While the schedule should be detailed, it should also factor in delays. Inclement weather, holidays, unexpected accidents or site problems, and other issues can arise, and a flexible schedule can help account for these possibilities. A reputable company will certainly take this into consideration during the pre-construction phase.

An equally important part of this phase is the formation of the budget. This includes the cost of obtaining materials and supplies, building permits, any standard or special equipment, contractor wages and fees, and other general costs. Additionally, while planning the budget it is important to consider and plan for possible money-saving alternatives. Keep in mind, however, that in the long run having access to quality materials and contractors is more important than saving a few dollars. Cutting too many financial corners could easily result in an unsatisfactory final product.

In short, the pre-construction phase is a vital part of any construction project, be it commercial, residential, large-scale or small. This stage will include a surveying of the site, the formulation of plans, obtaining necessary permits, and the formation of both time frames and the budget. If carried out by a competent construction company, it can save the client both time and money while guaranteeing a satisfactory job done.

About the Author: Juzefyk Bros. Construction has been providing superior quality masonry work for over sixty years. Now in its third generation, Juzefyk Brothers continues to offer a wide variety of interior and exterior construction, renovation, restoration, and design.juzbros.com

Source: isnare.com

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