| Project Management: Builder Manage
You, the homeowner, will contract with a builder to oversee the
entire remodeling project. The builder will/may subcontract projects
and work with suppliers to provide the materials and labor. Most
homeowners will rely on the builder's judgment and experience in
selecting subcontractors and buying materials.
- A high level of participation will include your approval of
subcontractors and periodic review of the project plan as outlined
in the construction plan and schedule.
- A minimum level of participation will include an independent
inspection after each sub-contract work
Note: Never approve or make payment until the
inspection has been satisfied as outlined in the project
specification plan.
The home owner will oversee and manage the financial aspect of
the project. This includes paying subcontractors and suppliers,
obtaining all lien releases and all other financial aspects of the
project
Project Management: Owner
Manage
Some home owners may choose to become their own "contractor".
This means that they will function as the project manager by scheduling
home construction projects, hiring subcontractors, buying materials
and supplies, and overseeing the entire home remodeling project.
As an owner contractor, you will need experience in project management
and scheduling. And it wouldn't hurt to learn the terms used among
contractors. You will need to appear to be professional in order
to avoid mistakes and being taken advantage of.
Some Vital issues to consider as a Owner/Manager:
- Remind them who is the boss. You will need to be fair, but
be tough.
- Act like a builder: Get to know the common construction terms,
and get to know your subcontractors
- Keep good records.You need a system that tracks purchase orders,
invoices, paid receipts and checks, scheduling plans, contracts
from subcontractors and worker's compensation records.
- Keep yourself insured. Very Important.
- Provide a workers environment. Workers like to work in pleasing
environments.
- Provide bathroom facilities for the workmen.
- Be Prepared for frustrations
- Manage change. Working on the project day-in day-out is tempting
to revise the original specifications. This could become expensive
over time and delay your project.
- Keep things moving: It's important to keep your construction
close to schedule as possible. Delay after delay can push the
construction costs up.
- Get commitments from suppliers on delivery dates and have them
inform you days in advance if they expect delays
- Promptly schedule subcontractors far enough apart so that you
can inspect and repair work if needed. This will also prevent
you from falling behind.
N.B. Inspect before you pay:
Your most powerful tool is the cash you hold in your hand.
Always have an independent inspector review the subcontractor's
work before making payment. Once the money leaves your hand, your
negotiating strength has weakened.
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