How to Find a General Contractor | Building First Nations

Understanding the Role of Residential and Commercial Contractors in Tulsa

General contractors play a vital role in construction projects of all sizes in the Tulsa area. Finding the right contractor is key, whether you’re looking to add an addition, build a new home, or construct a commercial building. Residential and commercial contractors have some similarities in managing projects and crews. Still, they also have some distinct differences that homeowners and business owners should understand when selecting the right contractor.

General Responsibilities

In residential and commercial projects, general contractors typically manage the timeline, budget, permitting, subcontractors, materials, and build quality. They are involved from start to finish.

General contractors hire specialized subcontractors to complete tasks like plumbing, electrical work, drywall, etc. They manage communication between all parties and make sure the project stays on time and budget.

While these core responsibilities are the same, residential and commercial projects differ significantly in scale, budgets, regulations, and required expertise.

How to Find a General Contractor for Your Tulsa Project

The process of finding the right general contractor in Tulsa depends on your specific project scope and goals.

Finding a Home Project Contractor

Look for a licensed general contractor with extensive experience with similar home projects for residential remodels or renovations. Interview at least three contractors in person and get quotes. Ask about their typical process, timeline, budget management strategy, and what permits are needed. Look for excellent communication skills. These are vital services critical to any project, not just residential builds.

Verify they are appropriately licensed, bonded, and insured. Make sure they will pull all necessary permits and can explain the process. This protects you from liability.

What to Look for in a Contractor for a Commercial Project

For large commercial construction projects, you need an experienced general contractor with proven expertise in commercial-scale work. Look for contractors that work extensively with architects, engineers, and designers.

Request references and examples of past commercial projects completed on time and within budget. Verify all proper licenses and certifications. Communication and problem-solving skills are essential to keep a complex commercial project on track. Make sure the contractor is hands-on and responsive.

Possess Multidisciplinary Expertise

Having expertise and experience in a wide range of disciplines within construction is essential. With so many elements to account for and balance, it can be challenging to maintain consistency while staying true to budgets and timelines if you don’t have a strong understanding of all facets of the job.

Architecture

Look for a contractor with in-house architectural design capabilities or close partnerships with architectural firms. They should understand design principles and specifications.

Engineering

Civil, electrical, mechanical, and structural engineering expertise is essential for commercial projects to assess feasibility, ensure structural integrity, and meet building codes.

Design-Build Capabilities

Choose a contractor with design-build capabilities for large commercial projects to streamline the process. Design-build firms have both design and construction professionals in-house to collaborate and plan.

Design-build construction capabilities tremendously impact a project for everything from costs to simplified communications. Discover more about the positive impact design-build can have on your upcoming project.

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Comprehensive Services: From Concept to Completion

Look for a commercial general contractor to provide end-to-end services from the preconstruction phase until delivery. They should be able to assess feasibility, create design specifications, pull permits, manage the bid process with subcontractors, oversee construction, and handle any warranty issues after completion. This comprehensive service ensures cohesive project delivery that meets timelines, quality standards, and budgets.

Things You Can Do When Searching for a Home or Commercial General Contractor in Tulsa

Hiring a general contractor for a home renovation or commercial construction project is important. Here are some tips on how to find and select the right contractor for your needs.

Get Multiple Bids

Don’t just go with the first contractor you find. Interview several potential contractors and get bids from at least three before deciding. This allows you to compare their prices, experience, and approaches to the job.

When reviewing the bids, don’t just look at the bottom line cost. Be sure to consider the details of what is included in the bid. Make sure all the contractors are bidding on the same scope of work.

Check Reviews and Ask Friends, Family, and Colleagues

Do some research online to read reviews of contractors you are considering. Sites like Yelp and Angie’s List can provide feedback from past customers. Also, ask your connections if they have experience with any local contractors. Friends, family, or neighbors who have done renovations can provide recommendations.

When trying to find a general contractor, pay attention to ones who have a lot of good reviews, mentioning they completed projects on time and budget. Be wary of contractors with many negative reviews about poor quality work or cost overruns.

Ask the Contractor for References

Any good general contractor should be happy to provide references from past clients. Call or meet with a few of these references to ask about their experience. Ask references if the contractor stayed on budget and schedule, communicated well, and provided quality work. Also, ask if they would hire the contractor again for future projects.

Check Experience on Similar Jobs

Another great way to find a general contractor is to look for one with extensive experience on projects similar to yours. If you are doing a large-scale remodel, choose a contractor with a portfolio of beautiful results.

For commercial projects, look for contractors who have worked on other buildings like yours. Check if they have experience meeting regulations, codes, and accessibility standards for commercial spaces.

A contractor who is an expert in your type of project will be familiar with potential pitfalls and how to avoid them. Doing your due diligence when searching for a general contractor takes time but sets you up for success. These tips can help you find a qualified and reliable contractor for your home or commercial construction project.

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Wondering How to Find a General Contractor? Start by Contacting Building First Nations

BNF is a full-service residential and commercial general contractor in Tulsa. Our in-house architecture and engineering teams enable us to provide design-build and traditional design-bid-build services. Our years of experience and track record of quality workmanship, construction management, and maintaining project schedules and budgets sets us apart from other contractors. We welcome you to reach out to discuss your next project and begin developing a plan.