Best Practices for Managing a Commercial Build Out

Got a big project in the works? Here are some best practices for managing a commercial build out.

If you’re expanding your business and need more office space, you’ll likely need to renovate or expand your commercial building. This can be a time-consuming and complicated task, but with the right contractor and some careful planning, it can be a smooth process that helps your business grow.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss some best practices for managing a commercial build out. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right contractor to set timelines and budgets. Let’s get started!

Consider all options

When you’re first planning your commercial build, it’s important to explore all of your options. If you’re renovating an existing building, there may be some code restrictions that limit what you can do. In that case, it may make more sense to start from scratch with a new build. If you have the option, sit down with your contractor and discuss the pros and cons of each option to decide what’s best for your business.

Create a timeline

Once you’ve decided to renovate, it’s important to create a timeline for the project. This will help ensure that everything stays on track and that you don’t run into any delays. Work with your contractor to create a realistic timeline that includes everything from demolition to the final walk-through.

Set a budget

Budget is always an important consideration, but it’s especially important when you’re managing a commercial build out. You’ll need to factor in the cost of materials, labour, permits, and any other associated costs. It’s also important to leave some room in your budget for unexpected expenses. Once you have a good idea of the costs, you can start planning how to finance your project.

Understand revenue vs expense projections

You need to have a clear picture of how much revenue you expect the renovations to generate and how much it will cost to complete. This will help you determine if the project is feasible and what type of return on investment you can expect.

Hire a reputable contractor

Perhaps the most important tip on this list is to hire a reputable contractor. This is not a project that you want to cut corners on. A good contractor will be able to help you navigate the process and ensure that your project is completed on time and on budget.

Hire a professional architectural designer

When it comes to managing a commercial build out, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is hiring a professional architectural designer. This person will be responsible for creating the plans for your new building and making sure that it meets all the necessary requirements. They’ll also work with you to create a space that reflects your company’s brand and culture.

Consider flex space

If you’re managing a commercial build out, one of the things you’ll need to consider is flex space. This is extra space that can be used for a variety of purposes, such as storage, shipping and receiving, or even expansion in the future. Having flex space built into your plans can give you some much-needed flexibility down the road.

Plan for growth (excess space)

As your business grows, you’ll need to make sure that your current space can accommodate that growth. That means planning for excess space from the start. This can be anything from extra office space to storage units or even parking. By planning for growth, you can avoid the need to renovate or expand in the future.

Leverage your contractor’s relationships

Your contractor likely has longstanding relationships with reliable subs who can be trusted to do good work. These are the types of people you want working on your project. In addition, your contractor should have a good relationship with the building department and inspectors. This can help streamline the process and avoid any potential delays.

Vet your subcontractors

If you’re managing a commercial build out, one of the things you need to be aware of is the subcontractors. These are the people who will actually be doing the work on your project. It’s important to vet them carefully and make sure that they’re qualified and have a good reputation.

Stay involved

Perhaps the most important tip for managing a commercial build out is to be involved in the process. This doesn’t mean that you need to micromanage every aspect of the project, but you should be available to answer questions and make decisions when necessary. By being involved, you can help ensure that the project goes smoothly and that your vision for the space is realized.

Be aware that more changes = more money

It’s important to remember that changes equal more money. If you change your mind about something after the work has already begun, it will likely cost you more in both time and money. Try to make all your decisions upfront so that the project can stay on track and on budget.

Create a punch list

Once the project is completed, you should do a walk-through with the contractor to create a punch list of items that need to be corrected. This could be anything from cosmetic issues to more significant problems. Once the punch list items have been addressed, you can then officially move into your new space and start enjoying all the benefits that come with it.

Create a maintenance schedule

Once your commercial build out is complete, it’s important to create a maintenance schedule. This will help ensure that the building stays in good condition and that any problems are caught early. A good maintenance schedule should include regular inspections, cleaning, and repairs. By taking care of your newly renovated building, you can avoid costly repairs down the road.

HI-Performance Construction handles projects from drawings to permits to construction. Complex projects are our specialty! Contact us today to help you build a space reflecting your goals and needs.