Common errors during construction

 

When planning the construction of a project, it is very tempting to think it's success is the contractor's sole responsibility and to imagine the initial construction cost is fixed no matter how many times you change your mind during the process.

This is NOT the case and it does not mean the original estimate was wrong or the contractor wants to take advantage, only that the scope of the contract has been expanded and hence the cost increased.

Be mindful that as much as it is understandable that many people need to feel the space to see how everything fits together, making changes at the construction stages will add costs to your budget.

If you are a person who needs to see things, ask your Architect to quote for some computer generated images (CGI) as part of their service. This is a more affordable option than making changes during construction

If there are uncertainties with the finishes, be clear with the contractor at the start, ask for samples and tell them what you are choosing from in order for them to make allowances in the original cost plan and facilitate the process. Contractors want the project to be a success as much as you do.

And remember, if something emerges on site , the team will find a solution but it will cost extra, so put aside some money for eventualities such as this or agree with the contractor to make an allowance in the budget that if not used, can be discounted.