Preparing for construction involves more than selecting a contractor and choosing a start date. Decisions about project goals, budgets, schedules, site access, building operations, and communication should ideally be addressed before work begins.
The more clearly these details are understood at the beginning, the easier it can be for the project team to coordinate the work ahead. Preparation is particularly important for renovations and expansions where employees, customers, tenants, or daily operations may need to continue around construction.
At Lundy Construction, we have helped clients prepare for and complete construction projects since 1933. Our experience includes new construction, renovations, expansions, design-build, commercial roofing, and specialized facilities.
TL;DR: Preparing for a Construction Project
- Clearly define what you want the project to accomplish.
- Establish priorities and a realistic budget.
- Discuss scheduling requirements before construction begins.
- Determine how crews and materials will access the site.
- Prepare employees or building occupants for possible disruptions.
- Establish clear communication with your construction team.
Start With Clear Project Goals
Before construction begins, identify what problem the project is intended to solve.
Do you need additional space? Are you updating an aging facility? Does the building need to accommodate new equipment, employees, customers, or operations?
Clear goals give the project team a better understanding of what the finished space needs to accomplish. They can also help guide decisions when there are multiple options for materials, layouts, or features.
Establish Your Priorities and Budget
Most construction projects involve balancing needs, preferences, and available resources.
Determine which features are essential and which are optional. This can help when evaluating design decisions or adjusting the project scope.
Budget conversations should also begin early. A realistic budget allows the contractor and project team to recommend solutions that align with the owner’s priorities.
Consider Your Construction Schedule
If you have a preferred completion date, discuss it early.
Construction schedules can be influenced by project complexity, material availability, permits, inspections, weather, and coordination between different phases of work.
Businesses should also consider their own operational schedules. There may be periods when construction would be particularly disruptive or times when certain portions of the facility must remain accessible.
Plan for Site Access
Construction requires access for workers, equipment, deliveries, and materials.
Before work begins, consider where construction vehicles can enter, where materials can be stored, and which areas must remain available for employees or customers.
Occupied facilities may require temporary entrances, parking adjustments, restricted areas, or phased work. Establishing these logistics early can help keep the construction site organized.
Prepare Building Occupants for Construction
If employees, tenants, customers, students, patients, or other occupants will remain in the building, communication is important.
They may need to know about temporary entrances, parking changes, noise, restricted areas, or adjustments to normal operations.
Sharing relevant information ahead of time can help everyone understand what to expect while work is underway.
Establish a Communication Process
Questions and decisions will arise throughout a construction project.
Knowing who is responsible for approvals and how information will be shared can help prevent unnecessary delays. Property owners should identify the appropriate point of contact within their organization and understand who they will communicate with on the construction team.
Consistent communication helps keep everyone informed as the project progresses.
Why Choose Lundy Construction?
Lundy Construction has provided construction services throughout Central and North Central Pennsylvania since 1933. Our experience includes commercial and industrial construction, design-build projects, renovations, expansions, educational and healthcare facilities, commercial roofing, historic preservation, and pre-engineered building systems.
From early planning through construction, we work with clients to understand their priorities, coordinate project requirements, and develop solutions appropriate for their properties. Contact Lundy Construction today to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start preparing for a construction project?
Preparation should begin as early as practical. Early planning provides more time to evaluate budgets, schedules, design options, permits, site conditions, and operational requirements.
Should employees or building occupants be informed before construction begins?
Yes, particularly when construction could affect parking, entrances, work areas, noise levels, or normal building operations.
What should I discuss with my contractor before construction starts?
Discuss the project scope, budget, schedule, site access, communication process, building operations, safety considerations, and any special requirements associated with the property.
