What is Preconstruction & Why is it Important?
In the architecture and construction industries, there is a phase of planning known in the industry as preconstruction. This initial phase of the project serves to lay out the project's entire scope and schedule for the construction team and the client.
A successful pre-construction phase sets the project up for success in terms of budget, schedule, and quality. And it's not just for architects and builders - anyone who wants to see a project through from start to finish should be aware of pre-construction. In this article, we'll discuss what pre-construction is, why it's important, and how you can make sure your project goes smoothly with minimal stress.
What is the importance of preconstruction?
Well, quality preconstruction will help a client decide if they can proceed with the construction project. During this phase is when a client can see if the project is too expensive or not feasible.
If both the client and the contractor agree that the project is viable, the contractor will then provide a cost estimate and schedule for the project.
The construction team also benefits from the preconstruction phase as this is when the team receives clear outlines to follow during the job. The client is also educated on what they need to do to make the project happen. This gives the client a big picture of what the project is before having to commit to any work yet.
There is a cost for preconstruction services. These costs depend on several factors which include:
Type of job
Location
Scope of Project
Should the client be unsatisfied with the contractor or the project proves to be unfeasible due to cost or other reasons, the client can terminate the relationship before breaking ground.
The pre-construction process is key to the success of the entire project, and in order for it to flow a pre-construction manager needs to be in charge.
Let’s look at the role of a preconstruction manager:
What does a preconstruction manager do?
A preconstruction manager is responsible for the preconstruction phase.
It’s their responsibility to:
Form an understanding of the project
Assemble a team to do the work
Create a strategy and schedule
Develop an understanding of the owner’s business goals
Here is a step-by-step look at the pre-construction process.
What is the purpose of a preconstruction meeting?
The pre-construction process – always involves a meeting between the client and the architect.
During this meeting, the general contractor will know what the client wants and needs. There will be some questions that the general contractor will have to resolve, and any other issues that he might have for them.
The client will share their vision for the project and they'll tell you what they would like their project to look like. Then, the general contractor will go to work to make the vision come to life.
A contractor should determine how much work is required of a job and outline a schedule after the first meeting. Deliverables should be properly defined, and the contractor should outline a schedule.
The Benefits of Preconstruction
Preconstruction offers many benefits to both the clients and contractors. The top benefits of pre-construction include:
Removal of many unknown variables for the client
They provide a clear picture of what the project will look like and how it will get done
The completion date for the work can be assessed
It provides the contractor the opportunity to present potential options for cost savings, which benefit the client.
Evaluating all possible scenarios, upfront gives the client confidence that the contractor they are working with knows what they are doing. Having realistic expectations helps avoid issues while the project is underway. It’s a real win-win for everyone involved.
At Riise, we understand the steps that should be taken in preconstruction and budgeting. Having realistic expectations helps avoid issues while the project is underway. It’s a real win-win for everyone involved. Contact us today to find out how Riise can help you start your project!