Before the actual construction begins, there are lot of things that
you should take care of. As They say well begun is half done. First and
foremost would be the required permit for construction, according to the
State laws, and any other formalities to fulfill. Once you have all the
information and required permits for construction, understand the
geographical and climatic conditions where you are constructing. Find
out if any special permits are required, where you need to protect
environment or wild life etc. Constructing a house near beach will have
different requirements than a country house, or where it snows.
Once these hurdles are passed we come to the biggest
and very important aspect of construction, and that is finalizing a
general contractor. Patience and research are the key here. Keep
following points in mind for hassle free work.
If possible hire a
local construction company for the job. This is important as you can
always check their previous assignments in the neighborhood. Talk to
neighbors and friends for recommendations.
A local contractor
will be well versed with all the formalities required for the
construction, available labors in the area, and where to procure the
building materials from.
Before you finalist the construction
company always check their credentials and license. Check whether they
are registered and recommended by the State agencies.
Find out
if the general contractor has skilled crew with him like plumber,
electrician, mason, painter, etc. to carry out specific tasks in
construction.
Also check Construction company’s reputation for finishing task on time and within the budget.
Find out whether they are keeping up with the times. Are they aware of
new construction materials, new designs, environment friendly components
etc.
The contractor should be in tune with your needs, for
example if you have a large family or have growing kids, if pets are
around, or a working couple, or love to socialize and party.
Always have at least two to three construction companies on your list
before finalizing one. Ask them to give you quotations for the job.
It is fine to try out new construction companies sometimes as they may
not be overloaded with assignments. While trying to prove themselves
they will do more sincere job than others.
Be very smart with
your finance. Always show low budget, cause however cautious you are,
expenses are bound to increase once construction starts. Buffer money
will be helpful.
Your contractor should be transparent in all
the dealings with his subcontractors. He should be willing and
forthcoming while sharing information. You should feel comfortable
asking him about expenses incurred.
Keep the money flow to insure smooth operation, but don’t pay the entire amount.
Keep yourself updated on the work, stay in communication with the
contractor. Keep visiting at all the important stages of construction.
As any last minute changes are possible.
Keep contractors on
their toes, sometimes go unannounced to the site, say you were in the
neighborhood. Do not go off to vacations during such period.
Understand the most basic thing in mind that whatever you are
constructing is going to be around for sometime. It should stand the
test of time. Once the construction is over, little things should not
bother you. Though aesthetics are important, they should be logical and
operational. Most important is to live in the house for at least a month
and then make the full payment, as any loose ends will be rectified
only if the payment is withhold. And once everything is set, I think its
time to put up your feet in your dream house and relax.