Construction work is never easy. It takes a whole lot of planning and a whole lot of doing, depending on the scale of the construction itself. But you can save a bit of time and effort by being aware of these top construction headaches and what you can do to avoid them.
- Starting a construction project without a contractor.
When you start a DIY construction project, well, of course, a lot of things could go wrong. You have to do the process of getting permits and all that. Legalities aside, you still need a lot of work for procuring materials and how to start the construction process itself.
via Millhaven Homes
SOLUTION: Hire a contractor of course!
To avoid the trouble just to get a little bit more money saved (because believe me it’s not worth it), you definitely need to hire a contractor. I’m no longer aware of any successful construction project to be honest that was not led by a wise contractor. So save yourself the hassle of trying to micromanage this project by getting a contractor and allowing him to work his magic for you.
- Working with an unlicensed contractor.
Not all states require working with a licensed contractor. But you see here, this does come with a few disadvantages. For one, you’re not really sure how long he’s in the biz which means quality and efficiency may be questionable. Then there’s also the issue of legalities, payments, and insurance. All these things aren’t really within the scope of an unlicensed contractor because they don’t really need to comply with that. Sounds unsafe, right?
via Millhaven Homes
SOLUTION: Don’t waste time with an unlicensed contractor.
Of course, the best solution for this is just to hire someone who is proven to be a licensed contractor. Licensed contractors in Oregon or anywhere in the states renew their licenses sometimes on a yearly basis, too. So don’t forget to look for the updated one in your area. This is actually one of the biggest mistakes to avoid when remodeling.
- Managing construction equipment.
The variety of equipment needed for daily operations in a construction project, from mini excavators to compactors, is wide. Without them, it will be a difficult process that takes a lot of time. Organizations not knowing where assets are situated is one of the main issues with construction equipment management.
When the team is working and can’t find the necessary tools, it becomes a major issue. As a consequence, not only work difficulties and delays but the risks of asset loss are enhanced. The building business frequently encounters situations of this nature.
Solution: Consider purchasing equipment management software
The maintenance procedure is automated by equipment management software, which also maintains track of each individual piece of equipment. Software of this kind sends messages and alarms in advance of impending maintenance tasks. Additionally, it helps the organization’s bottom line grow. They aid in maximizing Return on Investment generally (ROI).
- Having a budget deficit or being over budget.
Inflation and this current pandemic may be making it difficult for you to build your dream home. But mostly, it’s causing the price of materials and other necessary construction goods to skyrocket (thanks to several mobility issues due to lockdown). Aside from that, you might not have a reliable contractor who misquoted a lot of things which caused you to underestimate your budget.
SOLUTION: Have a sound plan and work doubly hard to meet that.
The only way you can remedy that situation is to pour more money into it. But to prevent it from even happening is to plan your project really carefully. Talk to a contractor, a supplier. Ask for a second opinion. Canvass the amount necessary for yourself. You can even hire a separate accountant if you want just to make sure that you have all the figures taken into consideration.
via Millhaven Homes
- On-site accidents
To be honest, there isn’t anything you can do to prevent an accident from happening, regardless of how careful and professional the construction workers are.
SOLUTION: Make sure that your contractor is insured and following safe practices.
Yes, the only thing you can do is ask your contractor if he has insured the work and his employees. If not, suggest several contractor insurance he can give them before beginning the work. Otherwise, bring your business to somebody else. You also want to make sure they’re following contractor safety best practices.
via Millhaven Homes
- Poor quality work
Sometimes, no matter how legit a contractor seems on paper and during your meetings, you still get to see ugly and unprofessional work later on. It’s surprising, shocking, and maddening; but it does happen. Sometimes the cause is something that was built early on. Or sometimes it’s the paint job. Other times, it can be the roofing and water pipes, too.
SOLUTION: Have the work inspected or inspect the site from time to time (especially during its early stages.)
You can do your due diligence and just visit the site from time to time to check on important bits of work that need to be inspected. These can be anything from the foundations, to the walls, roofing, and even electric work. Or you can have professionals inspect your home or building afterward to be sure.
It’s prudent to learn and revisit this article once you’ve started your prep work for home or other building construction. Understand this and memorize it by heart to avoid all the top construction headaches listed above. Thanks to RocketCert for consulting.
