Choosing a Design-Build Construction Firm for Your Facility Expansion

Thousands of firms can provide design-build construction services for your facility expansion, but that doesn’t mean you should just go with any of them. For a project as important as this, time and research are needed to select the best professionals.

Here are some things to look out for when narrowing down your options:

• Clear communication: Struggling to get in touch with a potential design-build firm should be a red flag. Having a single contractor to relay all of your information to can be terrific, but it’s ultimately pointless if they cannot communicate effectively. A reliable contractor is easy to reach, can seamlessly direct you through each stage of the process, and provides frequent updates as needed.
• Ample experience: Everybody has to start somewhere, but for the best results, look for a contractor with plenty of experience. Inquire about the design and construction teams, as each should be capable of providing excellent service. For example, Calahan Construction Services has over eight decades of experience in the construction industry and can confidently deliver top-quality service for clients.
• Impressive portfolio: Any firm can claim to deliver outstanding results, but having proof to back it up can help you decide whether they’re telling the truth. Checking a contractor’s online portfolio is an excellent way to see if their work is up to par, and if they meet your standards, you might even get a spark of inspiration. A professional contractor’s work should be able to speak for itself.
• Familiar with the area: Local contractors that are familiar with the area have the most knowledge about potential build sites. Choosing a firm that knows the land’s geography, weather, and specific building guidelines can simplify the design and construction processes.
• Certifications: Partnering with a licensed and insured contractor is critical. This protects you from liability for injuries and accidents that could occur during construction. Don’t be afraid to ask to see their certifications—if they’re professionals, they’ll be happy to.
• Positive reviews: Check online reviews and testimonials to get a better idea of what previous customers’ experiences were like. If you notice they have a majority of average to negative reviews, this could indicate that you need to look elsewhere. Likewise, significant positive reviews are a good sign that they’re the real deal.
• Time and cost: Only partner with a design-build firm after deciding prices and timelines. A decent contractor should be able to accommodate you by setting a fair budget and sticking to projected timelines.