What Makes Great Building Contractors?
When you’re preparing to break ground on a new construction project, whether it’s a business, retail space, or office building, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is who to hire as your building contractor. A great contractor can mean the difference between a smooth, on-time build and a project riddled with delays, confusion, and mounting costs.
At JG Bowers, we’ve spent decades perfecting our craft—and we’ve learned a lot about what makes a contractor truly stand out. Today, we’re sharing the key traits you should look for look for that separate the best building contractors from the rest.
Strong Reputation and Clear Communication
A trustworthy reputation is essential for any building contractor worth their salt. The best building contractors have a long trail of satisfied clients, and those clients are often more than willing to talk about their experience. If a contractor has earned consistent praise for transparency, reliability, and professionalism, that’s a strong sign you’re in good hands.
By the same token, great contractors should be able to maintain great working relationships. If you’re getting quotes from local contractors, then stay mindful of how each one communicates with you. Here’s a tip that could save you time, money, and a tremendous headache: if a contractor doesn’t respect your time before you sign a contract, they certainly won’t respect it after.
Realistic Timeframes and Consideration of Risk
Construction is a complex process. Materials have lead times, permits get delayed, and weather doesn’t always cooperate. Hiring a great contractor doesn’t mean this won’t happen, it means hiring someone who can create realistic time frames and respond well to any bumps in the road. You’ll know you have a great contractor when they can respectfully warn you about any hiccups you may not want to think about.
A great way to determine if a contractor is realistic and punctual is to ask about supply chain timelines, permit turnaround, and any unforeseen difficulties to be careful of. A skilled contractor will already have these considerations in mind and will explain how they’re building those risks into the project timeline. On the other hand, a vague or overly optimistic answer could be a sign of inexperience or poor planning.
Professionalism from Start to Finish
From keeping a clean worksite to following through on commitments, professionalism is another hallmark of a great contractor. You want someone who respects your time, your budget, and your vision for the project. That includes being prepared, organized, and responsive throughout every phase of construction.
Contact JG Bowers for Your Next Construction Project
At JG Bowers, we don’t just believe in doing good work—we believe in being truly great. To partner with an experienced contract that will take pride in your project, click here to contact us today!
