Large or small construction project. A historic renovation in the heart of the old town or a new shopping center. Regardless of the type of construction project you are undertaking, you want to be sure that you have chosen the right contractor for the job. But how do you know that your contractor is doing a good job?

The success or failure of a contractor is often closely related to you: how effectively you complete your hiring due diligence, how clearly you set your expectations, and how you and your contractor communicate with each other during all construction phases.

Preparation and selection

Before you begin your search for a contractor, you should clearly describe the responsibilities for which you will hold your contractor accountable. Those responsibilities should be included in the contract between you / your business and the contractor.

Next, you need to do your due diligence.

• Seek contractor recommendations from friends and colleagues who have worked on construction projects similar to yours. Ask these questions:

o How did the contractor handle the budget and materials?

o Was the project carried out on time or in advance? If it was after hours, why?

o Was the work carried out according to the agreed terms?

o Would your source work with that contractor again?

If your recommendation worked well on each of those points, he or she may also be a good contractor on your project.

• Check ALL references!

Get it in writing

All good business relationships should start with “get it in writing!”

• Each contractor candidate must provide a written offer. Red flag: nothing in writing.

• You and your contractor must have a signed contract. Include details on the budget, scope of work, materials, schedule, and specific responsibilities of the contractor. Red flag: the contractor who will not sign a contract.

• Your contractor should take notes during each tour and meeting. Red flag: “I will remember …”

At work

Here are some important clues at work that your contractor is doing a good job:

• Communication: You and your contractor communicate frequently and clearly according to agreed methods (text message, fax, email, phone). Red flags: does not return calls, is difficult to locate, provides limited answers to questions, communicates poorly with work team.

• Subcontractors: The contractor hires quality subcontractors with verifiable references. Red flags: conflict at work, petty theft, substance abuse at work, lost time, etc.

• Safety – Contractor diligently observes safety practices and insists that all workers adhere to safety rules. Red flags: avoidable injuries, safety concerns.

• On the job site – The contractor works on the job site most of the time. The construction crew is busy during all working hours of the week. Red flags: Contractor is not usually on site, workers have too much downtime.

• Security: adequate security measures are observed at all times. Red flags – Equipment and materials are uninsured or missing, site is poorly secured during non-business hours, unauthorized persons are on site.

Program and budget

Ideally, each construction project is completed on budget and on schedule. Realistically, there may be some schedule disruptions and unexpected costs.

Ask yourself some final questions:

• Does my contractor provide me with accurate and up-to-date information on all aspects of the work and construction progress?

• Are you managing resources, budget, personnel, and materials effectively and appropriately?

• Do the crew members work harmoniously enough with each other?

• Are my goals for this project being met?

When you can answer yes to these questions, chances are your contractor is doing an excellent job for you. Congratulations on your choice and your new project!