Running a small construction firm can be very lucrative. However, it is a career where the relevance of “time is money” feels greater than ever. Without the right strategy in place, there is every chance that you will encounter costly delays and damaged reputations.
Conversely, though, being ready for all situations should give you a competitive edge and maximize your returns. Here are five that you need to prepare for.
#1. Be Ready For Staffing Issues
A strong workforce is the greatest asset at any construction company’s disposal. However, a range of staffing issues could throw a spanner into the works. Absentees could occur due to illnesses or a range of other issues. Sadly, if you don’t have enough workers on site, the project will suffer. Therefore, supporting yourself with a network of contractors who can fill in when necessary makes a huge difference. As well as keeping the project on a positive path, you will no longer be distracted by this HR process.
Recruiting willing and skilled workers should be a priority too.
#2. Be Ready For All Climate Conditions
When working on external building sites, you are somewhat at the mercy of Mother Nature. With this in mind, you should at least try to focus on the right types of projects at the right time of the year. Crucially, you must have the right products in place to protect equipment and materials when adverse weather strikes. Black plastic sheeting is ideal for moisture management or providing durable barriers. When supported by covers for workspaces that require them, you can reduce delays and boost productivity.
Of course, the worst weather conditions may cause minor delays.
#3. IT Issues
You may not assume that IT problems are that important to a construction company. On the contrary, they can have a hugely detrimental impact, which is why outsourced IT is a great idea. The experts will identify and correct problems ASAP. This ensures that your website remains up to attract leads. More importantly, it facilitates smoother connections between office teams and on-site project managers. At a time when many aspects are monitored remotely, clear communication between departments is vital.
Besides, it allows you to focus on actively running the business.
#4. Equipment Issues
Equipment issues can fall into many categories, ranging from not having the right items to maintenance needs. The easiest way to overcome this is through machinery rentals. This ensures that you always have the correct items for an efficient project. Likewise, they will be kept in good health. It also saves the need for storage between projects. When you consider the other costs of owning and maintaining machinery, this route makes sense for smaller firms. Of course, essential materials and tools should be purchased for cost-efficiency.
Safety equipment should be purchased too. This way, workers will be familiar with them.
#5. Difficult Clients
Whether working on residential or industrial projects, you will probably encounter difficult clients. They might try to get a discount, which is why having contracts that clearly state the work required is vital. Furthermore, you need to know that payments may be delayed due to unforeseen issues or clients chancing their arms. With the right legal protection in place, you will get your money. Still, having a line of credit in place to cover cash flow issues will help.
It lifts a weight from your shoulders and stops one problem causing issues elsewhere.
