So far on our Commercial Project journey, we’ve looked at the initial planning required, establishing a project team and determining whether or not we need to appoint an external project manager.
This month, we’re moving on to Step 4 on our ‘Roadmap to success’ for commercial projects.
STEP 4: DEFINING THE PROJECT’S SCOPE
It is integral that you define the scope of the project before engaging suppliers and builders. If you don’t provide them with a well-defined, concise scope, it’s unreasonable to expect them to provide you with comparable and reliable quotes.
The more effort you put into your scoping document, the less effort you will need to put into comparing and revising suppliers’ quotes. Most importantly, the quotes you receive will be more accurate due to there being less chance for confusion, variations and unexpected costs.
If you can show a prospective builder you are an organised and well-prepared client, they are more likely to take your job and avoid inflated quotes.
Before speaking to the builder, make sure you have answers to the following questions.
Will you be purchasing any equipment or materials to supply to the builder?
If so, this must be made clear to the builder and any other contractors. This will enable them to confirm that what you propose to purchase is enough and up to the task.
Ask what dates the builder requires all equipment and materials on site as you will be responsible for their safe and timely delivery. This also means you will be responsible for the cost of any delays or additional purchases if you get it wrong.
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Are you planning to use any specific materials in the works?
Architects can be a great help with identifying what materials are needed. Failing that, arrange a meeting with a showroom to discuss options.
If you have specific materials you wish or need to use in your project, it is essential that you give this information to builders when gathering and comparing quotes. Specify the materials and products, ideally with a link to the supplier’s website in your scope document.
Do you have preferred contractors?
You may have contractors already in mind for your works, or specific contractors you must use due to their knowledge of the building and its systems. For example, you may have preferred companies or tradespeople the building uses regularly.
Using preferred contractors can create some efficiencies for you but there can be a downside. Every now and then, a preferred contractor may abuse this position and inflate their quotes. You can overcome this risk by asking the builder to get an additional quote from one of their preferred contractors to compare.
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Will you need a Development Application?
Generally, you must lodge a Development Application (DA) with your local government authority if you are changing the appearance or use of a building. If this is the case, you must wait for development approval before tendering for the works.
Is specific engineering, conveyancing and/or design required?
If your project has specific engineering, conveyancing, or design requirements, you should identify, scope and, where relevant, source these before tendering. This will provide your builders with the necessary information they need to provide an accurate quote.
Are there timeframes or restrictions?
Here at Core4, we can help you to scope your project and submit any DAs needed. You can find us at:
Head Office (AU)
7/121 Newmarket Road
Windsor QLD 4030
www.core4service.com.au
hello@core4service.com
1300 267 333