Insights

From Vision to Reality: The Crucial Role of Owners in Construction Projects

September 28, 2023 by Jeff Hadley

As a homeowner, taking on a construction project can be an exciting yet daunting task, no matter how big or small. You have the vision of the end result - whether it's your dream home, ideal office space, or a custom kitchen that would make even Gordon Ramsey jealous. But turning that vision into reality requires careful planning, decision-making, and oversight as the owner. This blog aims to accurately depict the crucial role owners play in each phase of a construction project - from early preparations to final inspections. Following these tips will all but guarantee the project's success from start to finish!

Before Construction Begins: Lay the Groundwork

The work you do in the early stages of a construction project will pay dividends throughout the process. As an owner, focus on the following tasks before breaking ground:

Select the Right Contractor for You
Finding a general contractor you can trust is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Thoroughly research potential contractors and ask the following:

• Are they licensed, insured, and bonded? This protects you from liability.
• Can they provide references from past clients? Speaking to previous customers is invaluable.
• Do they have experience with projects like yours? Specialized expertise is preferred.
• What is their work philosophy and approach to customer service? You'll be working closely together.
• How much work do they self-perform? Self-performing key areas, such as framing and finish carpentry, give the contractor greater control of the final product. 
• How do they plan to staff and manage the project? Having full-time onsite management ensures continuity between trades and allows consistent quality control. 
• How large is the company, and how many employees do they have? A builder must have the "horsepower" to get the job done.

Establish a Realistic Budget
Have an honest discussion about what you can afford. Experienced contractors can guide you in creating a budget that achieves your project goals without nasty surprises down the road.
Define the Project Scope
It's imperative to provide detailed information to your contractor about what you want to build or renovate before drawing up the design plans. Be crystal clear and precise when communicating your vision, non-negotiables, and preferences.
Agree on a Timeline
Construction projects involve many moving parts, so delays and hiccups aren't uncommon. Build room into your schedule by setting reasonable deadlines.
Understand Permits and Regulations
Your contractor or architect should handle obtaining permits. Still, you should understand local zoning laws, building codes, HOA rules, and other regulations. Have open conversations with your project team to reduce future surprises.
Work with the Right Design Professionals
Architects, engineers, interior designers, and other pros can ensure your plans are sound and cost-effective. Hire only licensed, credentialed consultants. Just like choosing a contractor, make sure to ask for references. 
Approve the Plans
Once the design plans and specs have your stamp of approval, they can be submitted to the planning and building departments, and the permitting process can begin. Depending on the jurisdiction, this can take several months, so make sure to plan ahead! Your architect and contractor can help guide you through this process; the key is ensuring you are happy with the plans before submitting for a permit and signing any contracts with a builder! 

During the Building Process: Stay On Top of It

After you approve the final plans and sign the contracts, construction will be underway. Here are your key responsibilities during the active building phase:
Maintain Open Communication
Connect with your contractor frequently to get progress reports and provide feedback. Be reasonable but firm in expressing any concerns. Make sure you define your expectations of quality to the contractor.
Make Decisions Promptly
Your contractor may need quick answers on material changes, plan adjustments, or how to address unexpected issues. Delayed decisions can stall the whole project.
Carefully Inspect Work
While contractors oversee day-to-day progress, visit the site regularly yourself. Verify work meets your expectations and be open with your contractor if you see something you don’t like. It’s always better to address something immediately than wait until the end of the project.
Approve Payments
Review invoices in detail before approving payments. Only pay for work completed satisfactorily and according to the contract. A good contractor should be detailed and have an open-book policy.
Minimize Changes
Understand that change orders can inflate costs and cause delays. Avoid making modifications unless absolutely necessary.
Stick to Schedule and Budget
If the project veers off-track timeline or budget-wise, work quickly with the contractor to get it back on the rails. Construction projects are a team effort and require collaboration and frequent communication between the owner, contractor, and design professionals every step of the way.
Document Everything
Keep detailed written records of all decisions and communications. Photograph work progress periodically. This documentation protects you legally. A good contractor will also be fully transparent and provide any information requested. This should include an owner's manual on larger projects, which consists of all manuals and warranties for products used in the house. 

After Construction: Inspect, Certify, and Celebrate!

Congratulations - your project is complete! As an owner, you still have a few final responsibilities:
Do a Thorough Walkthrough
Meticulously inspect finished work before signing off. Ensure it matches the plans and that the quality of work matches the expectations defined at the beginning of the project.
Obtain Certificates and Permits
Your contractor assists in acquiring final municipal permits, occupancy certificates, and other approvals. Although a good contractor should handle this, the owner is legally responsible for finalizing all permits. Make sure this doesn't get skipped, as there can be severe fines for ongoing projects.
Complete Punch List
Compile a punch list of any incomplete or faulty work the contractor must remedy before getting final payment.
Provide Contractor Feedback
Let your contractor know what you were satisfied and unsatisfied with. Your testimonial helps them win future business; a good contractor wants you to be delighted with their work!
Celebrate Your Success!
Now is the time to marvel at your beautiful new space and the journey it took to create it!

In Conclusion

A construction project involves significant investments of time, money, and energy. However, owners who take an active, informed role from start to finish are rewarded with a successfully executed vision. Stay on top of your responsibilities detailed here while letting the pros handle the rest. Remember, a successful project is all about teamwork! With diligence in following regulations, patience in handling surprises, and avoiding common missteps, your dream will become a reality!