Choosing the Right Dental Office Contractor
Choosing the right contractor for your dental office renovation is a very crucial step. The contractor is tasked with turning your dream into reality. You must choose someone who can construct a space that is ideal for both you and your clients. If the clients are attracted by the design, they may as well be tempted to try your services. The design will also affect the working habits of your staff. The more comfortable the offices are to work in, the better the results they will give. So if you need a contractor that will turn your dream into a reality, develop intensive selection criteria that will help you find the right one. Here are some of the qualities that you should look for in the candidates you evaluate.
1. Qualifications
Never ever underestimate the extent of technical expertise that is required in setting up a dental office. Even if you are building a small dental office, never be tempted to hire a general contractor. Dental offices require special qualifications since they are complex specialized structures and the layout and design are critical to the success of your practice.
2. Experience
Always try your best to go for the most experienced contracting companies, and specifically those experienced in building dental offices. Startup construction companies may also have staff who have had an experience in dental offices construction. Just remember that dental offices build-out does not need any guesswork and any mistakes done will make you pay painfully. Don’t run for lower bids because the company may not be experienced in dental offices constructions and this may cause problems like delays and cost overages later.
3. Precision
Look at the bids carefully. The more a bid is detailed the better. Let the contractor list all the items needed and don’t accept bids that leave other items. Also, let your contractor include what-ifs and contingency plans for remediation.
4. Insurance
Look for contractors who are insured and who insure their clients. The insurance will be able to protect you in cases where the contractor does not finish the job, or damages property or fails to pay subcontractors and suppliers.
5. Number of projects currently undertaken by the contractor
It is important to ask a contractor how many projects they are undertaking at the same time. If they are working on many projects at once, they may not be able to give your project the attention it deserves. And if they can, let them show that they have enough skilled manpower to execute all projects without delays.
6. Subcontracting
Some contractors do subcontract. If they do, insist on meeting the subcontractors to make sure they understand your vision. This will help them work to turn your dream into reality.
7. Payment schedule
Different contractors have different payment schedules. There is need to negotiate and come up with a schedule that is comfortable for both of you. Never be tempted to pay in full upfront. Make continuous payments as the project progresses.
