Commercial buildings are a great investment in real estate that can yield high returns. It requires a huge investment in time and money. Investors should confirm whether it’s the right decision for them or their company.
Imagine that investors have decided that a building for commercial use is the best investment to make. The next step is to plan the project to the best of your ability.
It can be overwhelming for new investors and builders to understand the sequence of commercial building construction. The process of commercial building construction will be something they need to learn from the beginning to the end.
This guide explains the steps involved in commercial building construction to help investors.
Commercial Building Construction Types
There are six different types of commercial building construction. The construction types are classified according to the materials used in the building and the percentage of that material.
Classifying commercial buildings is done to assess the fire risk. The damage that a commercial structure can suffer from a fire is important to know.
Commercial building construction can be classified based on the above factors:
- Construction class 1 -Frame
- Construction Class 2 – Joisted Masonry
- Construction class 3 – Noncombustible
- Construction class 4- Masonry Noncombustible
- Construction Class 5 – Modified Fire Resistive
- Construction class 6- Fire Resistant
Investors who are building commercial buildings, whether small or large, must budget for the construction of their building.
How to Build a Commercial Building Step-by-Step
It is best to break down the construction process of a best commercial builder in Auckland step-by-step. The construction of a commercial building involves six steps, including:
1. Planning and Development
Experts in the building industry say that the planning stage is the most crucial phase of a commercial construction project. This is the first phase and the investor must work with others to plan the project.
Investors, contractors and other stakeholders decide on the budget and location during the planning and development phase. At this stage, they will also have to select architects, land developers, general contractors, and other stakeholders.
Engaging a company that specializes in commercial building construction can make this process a bit easier. A company that specializes in commercial building construction can be involved at the beginning of the process and bring innovative ideas to the table.
2. Design
In order to design commercial buildings, the plan must be presented in a comprehensive construction package that will allow the project to be executed. The schematic designs of the project will include information about the materials and their qualities/characteristics.
The size and purpose of each room will be decided at the design stage. This is best done in accordance with the orientation of the building to align it with utility connections and covenants for development. It is important to make sure that the project will be feasible. The project design must also meet all building codes and regulations.
At the design phase, you can also estimate with reasonable accuracy how much your project will cost. At this stage, contract documents are also created and signed. This is the best time to create a project timeline.
3. Pre-Construction
Pre-construction begins when the owner of the project notifies the general contracting contractor that he will proceed with the plan. The list of materials needed will be sent to commercial subcontractors and vendors for quotes at this stage.
Pre-construction also includes obtaining all necessary permits and meeting insurance requirements. At this stage, the soil will be tested to determine if it is suitable for construction.
A site investigation will be conducted at the end of pre-construction to reduce the risk of unexpected surprises or complications, such as environmental hazards. At this stage, the construction team is also formed.
4. Procurement
In the procurement phase, all items required to complete the project must be secured. Contractors should ideally handle the procurement but they must do so in accordance with any signed contracts. General contractors can either handle all procurement themselves or include subcontractors.
The materials, regardless of who is responsible for the procurement process, must meet the expectations of the owner of the project in terms of quality and price. Some materials must also meet the legal requirements. All materials must arrive on site in a timely manner.
Contractors and subcontractors are also responsible for bringing in the correct equipment to complete the project. Equipment can be rented, but must meet project requirements. Budgets must be considered when planning the hiring of workers and their salaries.
5. Construction
Construction is the stage where commercial properties are actually built. The project is now being transformed from a paper plan to a physical property. The construction process is preceded by an important meeting to determine site access, storage of materials, quality control and work hours.
Construction is the most active stage of the building process. You can expect to see a variety of steps, including site excavation, pouring concrete, erection of steel, framing and interior/exterior works, roofing, installation underground utilities, etc.
The type of commercial building construction, as well as the design and functionality, will determine the minor processes that are involved in this stage. Project manager and official inspector must inspect the various processes. The construction phase ends only when it is completed.
6. Post-Construction
The term post-construction refers to everything done after the construction phase is complete, up until the building is occupied. Post-construction can take a long time depending on the nature and scope of the project.
Ideal post-construction testing should begin with rigorous tests. Owner of the project, designer and contractor all need to be satisfied. The building will undergo a final walkthrough and some changes may be needed to make it ready for use.
After construction, the final step is to receive a certificate of substantial completion. The certificate of substantial completion is only issued after all requirements have been met.
Building a Commercial Building: Important Tips
Investors or businesses who want to build commercial properties must be able to manage all six steps. Here are some essential tips to help them with this important project or investment:
- Consider all options and choose the best one for you
- Making the right financial projections about the feasibility of a project
- Build their permits in order
- Choose the right architect/designer
- The right contractor can be hired in time
- Realistic about the involvement of your team members in the project
- Be prepared with a contingency planning
- Finance it correctly
- Avoid last-minute changes
- Understanding the roles and responsibilities for the members of the construction team
- Handle conflicts with maturity and a quick resolution
Smooth Commercial Building Construction
A commercial property can be a valuable investment that has huge potential. Investors must realize, however, that such a venture will require time and resources. Understanding the processes is key.
A reputable construction company is a great way to start off a successful commercial building project. Our company that helps its clients throughout the entire project.