Better Decisions Before Construction Begins
A successful commercial project starts long before the first subcontractor arrives on site.
At Rye General Contractors, our preconstruction services are designed to help owners understand the project, establish realistic costs, identify potential problems, and make informed decisions before construction begins.
We work with owners, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and suppliers to evaluate the project from both a design and construction standpoint. Our goal is to create a clear path from the initial concept through permitting and construction.
Because our background includes both construction and civil engineering, we approach projects with an understanding of how design decisions, site conditions, utilities, access, grading, drainage, building systems, and construction methods can affect the final cost and schedule.
What Is Preconstruction?
Preconstruction is the planning and evaluation that takes place before the construction phase begins.
Depending on the project, this may start with little more than an idea, preliminary floor plan, existing building, or proposed site.
During this phase, we help the owner begin answering the questions that ultimately determine whether the project is successful:
- What is the actual scope of work?
- What will the project likely cost?
- Are there design or site issues that need to be addressed?
- Are there more practical or cost-effective alternatives?
- What permits and approvals will be required?
- What needs to happen before construction can begin?
Addressing these questions early provides more opportunity to make changes before those changes become expensive.
Conceptual Budgeting & Cost Estimating
A complete set of construction drawings is not always necessary to begin establishing a budget.
Using preliminary plans, square footage, proposed finishes, site information, and the intended use of the building, we can help develop an initial construction budget.
As the design progresses, the budget can be refined using more detailed information and input from qualified subcontractors and suppliers.
Our focus is on developing a realistic understanding of the project rather than relying solely on broad square-foot pricing.
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Value Engineering
Value engineering is the process of evaluating the project for opportunities to reduce unnecessary cost while maintaining the function, appearance, and long-term value of the building.
This may include evaluating alternate materials, construction methods, layouts, building systems, or sequencing.
The best opportunity to save money is usually before construction begins.
A relatively small adjustment during design can sometimes eliminate a much larger expense in the field.
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Constructability Review
Plans can look complete on paper and still create problems during construction.
We review the project from a contractor's perspective to identify potential conflicts, difficult details, access issues, sequencing problems, and other conditions that may affect construction.
This review can include structural coordination, mechanical and electrical conflicts, site conditions, utilities, ceiling spaces, equipment clearances, existing building conditions, and material transitions.
Finding these issues before construction is usually much less expensive than solving them after work has started.
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Design Coordination
Commercial projects often involve multiple design professionals and several different building systems.
We help coordinate the construction side of that process so the owner's goals, design, budget, and actual field conditions stay aligned.
Our involvement may include coordination with the architect, structural engineer, civil engineer, mechanical engineer, electrical engineer, plumbing designer, specialty consultants, and key subcontractors.
Where licensed or stamped professional design services are required, we coordinate with the appropriate design professionals.
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Permitting & Code Coordination
Permit requirements vary by municipality, occupancy, building type, and scope of work.
During preconstruction, we help identify the approvals and documentation that may be required before construction begins.
This can include building permits, planning review, fire marshal requirements, accessibility, egress, occupancy classifications, utilities, parking, inspections, and other local requirements.
Understanding these issues early can prevent unnecessary redesign and delays later.
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Why Involve Rye General Contractors Early?
The earlier we become involved, the more opportunity there is to help influence the cost, design, and constructability of the project.
Our preconstruction approach is based on practical construction experience combined with an engineering background.
We are not simply reviewing drawings after every major decision has already been made.
Our goal is to help the owner make better decisions while there is still time to make them.
From Concept to Construction
Our typical process may include:
- Initial Concept
- Site & Existing Conditions Review
- Preliminary Budget
- Design Coordination
- Value Engineering
- Permit Coordination
Subcontractor Pricing - Final Construction Budget
- Construction
The exact process varies depending on the project and how far the design has progressed when we become involved.
Commercial Projects We Help Plan
Our preconstruction services are well suited for:
- New commercial buildings
- Tenant build-outs
- Medical offices
- Restaurants
- Professional offices
- Banks and financial facilities
- Retail spaces
- Commercial renovations
- Building additions
- Churches
- Office and warehouse projects
Planning a Commercial Project?
If you are considering a commercial building, renovation, addition, or tenant build-out, involving the contractor early can provide valuable information before major design and construction commitments are made.
Rye General Contractors can help evaluate the project, develop preliminary construction costs, coordinate the planning process, and create a practical path toward construction.