Asks the Pros Mailbag
At Endres Northwest, we place an emphasis on making sure the construction process is simple for our clients. We want you to be enthusiastic with your end result, as well as the process that got you there. To that effect, we have provided answers below to some relevant questions to use as you begin your construction process.
Everything you’re about to read came from actual e-mails sent in by our readers over the past few months. If you would like to submit a question, click here. On to the e-mails…
Q: Do I need to setup utilities in advance of my tenant improvement project?
-- George, Aloha
ENI: Yes, utilities and similar services need to be set up well in advance of the start of the project. This will ensure that the space has electricity, and that your project can hit the ground running.
Q: Has COVID-19 impacted the lead time for materials and fixtures?
--Betty C., Vancouver
ENI: Yes, a big issue that most contractors have been experiencing is longer than normal wait times to get materials and fixtures. Be aware that items that have to be ordered may take longer than expected and could impact overall timelines.
Q: How has COVID-19 affected the permit process?
--Lou, Sherwood
ENI: Similarly, permits are also taking longer to get approved. With more projects than ever commencing in the Portland Metro area, and government workers still under restrictions, there is a large backlog in permit approvals.
Q: What are some things that I can do to create a more seamless construction experience?
--Chloe D., Damascus
ENI: Five things we recommend to help ensure a seamless experience are:
Invest in an architect and quality plans to not only save you time and ultimately money, but also so that you get a superiorly designed commercial space.
Communicate with you contractor about space access.
If you provide anything for the project, coordinate with your general contractor.
Approve things as quickly as you can, within reason.
Be proactive during the final site walk thru. While a 1-year warranty is standard, the best opportunity to have issues addressed is with the end-of-project punch list.
Do you have questions for the mailbag? Write to endresnw@endresnw.com. Please include “mailbag” in the subject line. Emails may be edited for publication. Individual replies cannot be guaranteed.
Endres Northwest, Inc. (ENI) has been serving the needs of commercial clients throughout the Portland, OR area since 2004. We specialize in retail, medical, office, restaurant, education, and industrial complexes. Contact us today to learn more about our services.