Sometimes getting the best contractors in Africa for your construction or renovation project can be the hardest thing around in your mind.
In many situations contractors in Africa have done shoddy work hence as a construction manager it may be hard for you to know who has the best track record delivers quality work on time and on budget
As a manager you should know that there is no other room for rebuilding or making mistakes when sourcing for the best contractor for your project therefore getting the best is the game at hand.
So if you’re looking to a contractor you may be able to find an attractive price, but choose carefully. Here are key steps to follow in the hiring process.
1. Obtain referrals
Take your time ask your fellow construction managers on the various ways to find potential contractors.
Seek referrals from various managers, family members and friends for this will give you a lead to the top constructors in the region.
With technology you can tap into social networking sites, such as Facebook, to expand your reach. Keep in mind though that anyone making a personal referral may not have had the same type of work done.
2. Carry out an Interview for the candidates
After getting referrals make sure that you carry out a serious interview having more of your staff so that you can identify the best of many
Armed with a list, make some calls to get a sense for how comfortable you’ll be with them working in and around your home.
While carrying out the interview make sure you include top questions such like
• How long have they been in business?
• Who will be assigned as project supervisor for the job and will workers be employees or subcontractors?
• Does your company carry workers’ compensation and liability insurance?
• How many projects like mine have you completed in the past year?
• May I have a list of references from those projects and a list of business referrals or suppliers?
• Do you belong to any professional associations?
3. Narrow the field
You know the nature of work you have and so narrow down the foeld and make sure that yu get the contractor that have main focus on what you are doing.
Make sure you double check references to make sure past projects were done on time, at the expected price, and that the quality and cleanup was satisfactory.
After all of the background checks, set up face-to-face meetings with those who pass your initial screen to discuss your project and get written estimates. Make sure to ask for an estimate that breaks down material and labor costs so you’ll be able to make specific service comparisons.
5. Finalize the deal
Get an agreement in writing. A formal contract will provide protection in case something goes wrong.
For instance, problems may arise if the contractor doesn’t pay his suppliers. If he still owes money on the material or labor used in your project, you’ll want to have a lien waiver in place. This prevents a lumber company or subcontractor from placing a lien on your home for the contractor’s unpaid bills.
