How to Choose the Right Construction Company
How to Choose the Right Construction Company
Choosing the right construction company in Lincoln, NE is crucial for a smooth, successful project. Whether you're planning a home remodel, commercial build-out, or outdoor deck construction hiring the wrong contractor can result in costly delays and poor workmanship.
This guide will walk you through the key steps so you can confidently select a professional, licensed construction company that meets your needs.
Be Clear on What You Need
First things first, before you even think about hiring a construction company you need to nail down the details of your project. What’s the scope? What’s your budget? And how soon do you need it done? Knowing exactly what you want is key.
Scope of Work: Is this a brand new build, a renovation, or something specific like deck construction?
Budget: Be honest with yourself. Set a realistic budget that includes materials, labor, and a little extra for surprise costs that always seem to pop up.
Timeline: When do you want this done? Make sure your contractor can work within your timeline.
Special Requirements: Have particular needs, like energy-efficient upgrades or ADA compliance? Make sure the contractors you’re looking at have that expertise.
Having a solid plan helps contractors give you accurate bids and keeps your project running smoothly from start to finish.
Do Your Homework on Potential Companies
Now that you know what you need it’s time to find a licensed, experienced construction company that can bring your idea to life. Not every contractor is the same and picking the wrong one can lead to a world of headaches. So doing your research is important before you sign anything.
Where to Find Good Construction Companies
There are quite a few ways to spot reputable contractors:
Online Searches: A quick Google search for something like “best commercial renovation contractors in Lincoln, NE” or “affordable home remodeling Lincoln, NE” can lead you to some highly rated companies. Keep an eye on Google My Business listings, they often have real customer reviews, project photos, and contact info.
Industry Directories: Check out sites like HomeAdvisor or Angi (used to be Angie’s List). They let you compare verified contractors, read reviews, and see ratings.
Word of Mouth: Don’t underestimate personal recommendations. Ask friends, family, or coworkers if they've worked with a reliable renovation company. You’d be surprised how often personal referrals can lead you to the best pros.
Social Media & Forums: Platforms like Facebook, Reddit, and local community groups can give you honest feedback from real customers who’ve been through the experience with local construction companies.
What to Look for in a Construction Company
Once you’ve got a list of potential candidates, take a closer look at each company’s website and portfolio. You want to make sure they’ve got experience with projects that match what you’re looking for. It’s a good idea to look for clear project photos, hear from past clients through testimonials, and see a detailed list of services they offer.
Some Red Flags to Keep an Eye On
🚩 No license or insurance – Always double-check their credentials to safeguard your investment.
🚩 Unclear estimates – If they won’t give you itemized bids, that’s a bad sign.
🚩 Not showing past projects or references – A trustworthy contractor should have past work to showcase. Even if there aren’t any on their website (maybe they don’t have one), a reputable company will be able to provide some if contacted.
🚩 Pricing that seems too good to be true – Remember, if the bid is unusually low, they might be cutting corners somewhere.
Doing your homework can really help you pick a contractor who not only fits your needs but also delivers quality work.
Verify Licensing, Certifications, and Insurance
Before you pull the trigger on hiring a construction company make sure they have the right licenses, insurance, and certifications. This is key to ensuring your project is protected, both legally and financially.
A licensed contractor will follow state regulations and adhere to building codes, which minimizes the chances of poor workmanship and legal issues down the road. You can check their credentials through the Nebraska Contractor Registration Database.
A solid contractor should also carry:
✔ General Liability Insurance – This covers any property damage.
✔ Workers’ Compensation Insurance – Protects against injuries that occur on-site.
✔ Bonding – This ensures you’re financially covered if the project doesn’t get finished.
Certifications You Should Look For
• OSHA Certification – This means they prioritize safe work practices.
• LEED Certification – Perfect for projects that are eco-friendly and energy-efficient.
• Energy Star Certification – Guarantees they're following energy-efficient building practices.
Steer clear of any uninsured or uncertified contractors. You don’t want to find yourself liable financially or legally.
Assess Experience and Reputation
The experience and reputation of a contractor can really make or break your project. Search for licensed construction companies in Lincoln that have a solid track record in your project’s type.
This is where those online reviews, referrals, and testimonials come in hand again. A double look at a company of particular interest to you at this point is not a bad idea.
Watch Out for These Red Flags
🚩 A lot of unresolved complaints – If you see recurring negative feedback, that’s a big warning sign.
🚩 Lack of transparency – If they’re vague about costs, timelines, or project details steer clear.
Choosing a contractor with plenty of experience and good reviews will help ensure your home renovation or commercial project gets done properly and on time.
Requesting and Comparing Bids
Now you’ve got your list of licensed construction companies it’s time to ask for some detailed bids. You’ll want to compare things like pricing, timelines, and what exactly each company is offering.
What Should a Good Bid Include?
✔ Itemized Cost Breakdown – Should include labor, materials, permits, and any extra fees.
✔ Project Timeline – Make sure they lay out when work will start and when they’ll finish, plus any important milestones along the way.
✔ Payment Schedule – You want a plan where payments are tied to the work being done, not just a big chunk of cash up front.
✔ Warranty & Change Order Policy – This should cover their workmanship and outline how they'll handle any changes that come up.
Watch Out for the Lowest Bid Trap
🚩 Unrealistically Low Pricing – If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. They might be cutting corners or hiding fees.
🚩 No Detailed Breakdown – If a quote is vague, it can lead to surprise costs later on.
If you need some extra tips on construction contracts and pricing, take a look at The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). Remember, choosing a contractor isn’t just about the price; it’s about value and transparency too. This way you can ensure you get quality work.
Evaluate Communication and Professionalism
Good communication is essential for a smooth project. Your licensed construction company should be responsive, clear, and professional from start to finish.
How to Spot a Reliable Contractor
✔ Quick Response Times – Are they getting back to you quickly when you reach out?
✔ Clear, Detailed Contracts – Make sure everything is documented well, including pricing, timelines, and what’s expected.
✔ Professionalism in Meetings – Do they treat you with respect, know their stuff, and answer your questions?
Red Flags to Keep an Eye On
🚩 Inconsistent Communication – If they’re slow or vague in their responses, that’s a sign of poor organization.
🚩 No Written Agreements – If all you have are verbal promises, that’s risky.
Look for contractors who use project management tools, like Buildertrend, to keep things organized and keep you in the loop. Picking a company that values communication and professionalism will help make your experience a lot smoother.
Review the Contract Carefully
Before you sign the dotted line with any licensed construction company, take a good look at the contract. A solid agreement is critical as it protects both you and the contractor by laying out clear expectations, costs, and terms that are legally binding.
A lot of homeowners and business owners make the mistake of just skimming through contracts. This can lead to unexpected fees, project delays, or even disputes down the line. Trust us, understanding the fine print can save you from some serious stress later on.
Key Elements Every Contract Should Have
A construction contract should cover all the crucial details, leaving no room for confusion.
Make sure yours has the following:
✔ Scope of Work – This part lays out exactly what the contractor will do and what they won’t. It should mention specific materials, finishes, and different phases of the project. For example, if you’re looking at a home renovation in Lincoln the contract should detail plumbing, electrical work, flooring, and any structural changes.
✔ Project Timeline – You want clear start and end dates, along with important milestones and a heads-up about possible delays. Without this a residential remodeling project might end up taking longer than you planned.
✔ Payment Schedule – Be cautious of contractors who want all the money upfront. Instead, look for a payment plan that aligns with project milestones. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) actually warns that big upfront payments can be a sign of potential fraud.
✔ Change Order Policy – Construction isn’t always predictable, and unexpected issues happen from time to time. A change order clause explains how any adjustments to the original plan will be managed and priced.
✔ Materials and Labor Costs – A trustworthy commercial renovation contractor should break down material and labor costs to help avoid any fees creeping up later.
✔ Warranty and Guarantees – Don’t forget to check that your contract includes warranties for both the materials used and the workmanship. Many solid companies offer warranties that last a year or even multiple years.
✔ Dispute Resolution Terms – If something goes wrong, how will it be sorted out? Some contracts mention mediation or arbitration processes before jumping to legal action.
If you want an idea of what a contract should look like, check this out.
Common Contract Red Flags to Watch Out For
Not every construction contract is created equal, and unfortunately, some can be unfair to you as the client. Keep an eye out for these warning signs before you put pen to paper:
🚩 Vague Language – If you notice important details are missing or phrased too generally, it’s time to ask for some revisions. A contract should be clear and detailed.
🚩 Verbal Promises Instead of Written Agreements – If it’s not in writing, it doesn’t count. Don’t rely on verbal promises; make sure everything is documented.
🚩 Unrealistic Timelines – If a contractor is promising to get things done surprisingly fast, they might be cutting corners.
🚩 No Termination Clause – This protects you in case the contractor isn’t holding up their end of the deal, giving you a way out under certain conditions.
For further insights on how to review contracts, check out FindLaw’s Construction Contract Guide. It has some great legal tips that can help homeowners navigate their agreements.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Construction Project
Picking the right construction company is important if you want everything to go off without a hitch. Start by figuring out exactly what you need. Then, do some quick research into potential contractors. Once you’ve found a few, check their credentials and compare their bids. A reliable contractor or construction company should be licensed and have some experience under their belt. Transparency and professionalism are key too. It might seem like a lot, but this groundwork is what leads to a smooth and top-notch build.
Download our hiring checklist and bid comparison sheet for free by clicking below:
At S&L Construction Group, we’re proud to offer some of the best commercial and residential renovation services in Lincoln, NE. We really focus on quality and keeping our customers happy.
Are you ready to kick things off? Just reach out to us for a free consultation. Let’s work together to turn your vision into reality!
