At Relay Shop we work hard to foster relationships with our contractors. Some of our projects become very lengthy. We think it is important to start out a project strong and get our clients to the finish line adhering to schedule and budget. The only way we can do this successfully is through the help and support of our contractors.
Residential Contractors are a god sent. They mediate the project and sometimes the client. Timelines and budgets seem to be more fluid in residential work, meaning this may change more often than in commercial projects. Residential work is more emotionally driven for clients. Having a strong triangle of client, architect/designer, and contractor only set up the project for success. In residential construction clients seem to be more emotionally connected to their space than in a commercial setting. This makes making decisions more emotional versus factual. Budgets tend to fluctuate more due to “falling in love” with either a product or material. Open lines of communication is the life line. We always have hiccups or discover something along the way and staying open to all ways of problem solving gives the client options with cost and timelines associated with each solution.
We like the contractors we work with to be open to ideas and materials. We work closely with each contractor to know who they like to source materials from or who they like to install and use as sub contractors.
Commercial Contractors work beautifully from timeframes and budgets. Emotion isn’t a part of the equation. Timelines are defined and budgets are adhered to. Roles in commercial work tend to be more defined. A set of construction documents have been priced and will be built as priced. If there are any changes to the scope, an add service is generated. If there are changes due to material availability or change of product a change order is issued to reflect the cost and adjustment. The process overall in commercial work is more smooth and processed with clear and defined roles.
A strong relationship with a contractor can lead to a positive experience for both parties and may encourage future projects. Here are some tips for building a successful relationship with a contractor:
