Is there anything better than breaking ground on a new construction project? Getting to create a new home or commercial space is a spectacular endeavor. The best way to make sure that your build goes smoothly actually happens before the construction even begins. So if you are getting ready to start a new building here are the six steps you should take before you start.
1. Choose Your Site
Before you can build anything you need to make sure you have a place for your project. If You’re building a new home, you’ll be looking at vacant properties for that project. If you’re working on a commercial or industrial project, finding a site can be a bit more complicated. You’ll need to work within the space constraints of the area you want to build. You may also have to get the right permits to build on the land that you’ve purchased. Especially if you’re doing a commercial project in a metro area.
2. Get the Right Permits
Now that you have a site it is crucial that you find the right build permits. Every place is going to have different requirements to follow when doing construction. Some may need you to get permits, others will have specific codes you’ll need to follow.
You should also familiarize yourself with any laws surrounding construction in the area you are building your project. The last thing you want to do is get into any legal trouble without even realizing it. Once you obtain all the right paperwork you can move on to getting started with the site.
3. Site Analysis
During the planning stage of your construction project, it is a great idea to get a site analysis done. Your site can make or break your project. If you end up building on uneven soil or are at a high risk of seismic activity, a site analysis can help you figure out what to do to make your site strong and reliable. Site analysis is generally done by civil engineers.
A lot more goes into a site analysis than just walking around and making sure everything is level. ZP Architects lays out many of the different services civil engineers provide on the job during a site analysis to help your understanding of the profession. Getting a site analysis ensures that your new build will be safe for all that visit.
4. Build a Budget
Now that your site is ready you’ll need to create your budget for the project. Your budget includes all of the expenses that you may run into on the job, including buffers for any unforeseen delays that occur.
You should include the cost of materials, labor, contractors, subcontractors, and some emergency funds in case your project is delayed. Once your budget is set it’s in your best interest to stick to it as best as you can to keep the project on schedule and to save some money along the way.
5. Create a Timeline
The budget that you’ve created for your project can help as a guide when creating your timeline. The timeline of the project will include the planning and reconstruction as well as how long each phase of the construction should take.
Your schedule will also include time for securing your permits, doing site analysis, and everything that goes into the project before breaking ground. Then you’ll make the schedule based on the actual time it takes to build the project. This is where you’ll account for any delays due to climate, shipment issues, or any other potential delays.
6. Hire a Team
You now have a good grasp of how long your project is going to take and how much it’s going to cost. This is the point at which you can start hiring your team. Depending on the scope of your project you may need to hire some specialists in addition to the workers you get to complete the job.
These specialists include contractors, architects, designers, and project managers. Some of these specialists can do double duty as project managers as well.
If you’re working on a large-scale project you don’t want to skip out on architects and designers. They can help you create something detailed and beautiful while keeping the engineering and functionality of the building in mind. Once you have all of the right people and teams in place, you’re finally ready to get building!
Conclusion
Planning a construction project is almost as important as building the project. This is the time that you can make any adjustments you need and find the right people to help you get the job done. Following these tips at the beginning of your construction project can help you save time and money. And create a gorgeous new build with ease.