When it comes to selecting a groundworks contractor it’s important you pick the right company for the job. Here’s some useful tips on what to look for:
1. Health and Safety
This needs to be the number one consideration when selecting any groundworks contractor. You need to know that Health & Safety is their top priority. It is imperative that workers are protected while on site, as well as anyone else that lives or works in the area. This should be highlighted in their proposal or ask to see their Health and Safety policy. A good contractor will carry out Health and Safety as well as risk assessments before the actual work begins and at intervals throughout the project. This is something we take extremely seriously with all our projects.
2. Experience and Good Work Record
It’s so important that you do your research when taking on a contractor. You need to know that their work is to a high standard and that they are reliable. You also want to be sure that they have experience in the work you are asking them to complete. Ask to see a portfolio of building projects they have previously worked on. You can also ask to see references from previous clients, along with reviews and testimonials. For example, we publish some of our work with endorsements from clients here.
3. Qualifications and Accreditations
Do they have the right qualifications to carry out your work? You need to be sure they will pass the relevant inspections and the staff employed by the company have the right qualifications for the job such as CSCS, CPCS, First Aid training etc. This is something you can ask the contractor about. Also, what accreditations does the company hold? This will help you ascertain the credibility and professionalism of the company. For example, we are ISO 9001 and 14001 accredited. We also hold the Constructionline and Safe Contractor accreditations.
4. Planning and Tracking
How will they plan, control and coordinate the project from beginning to end? Will they provide you with regular updates and transparency over the progress of your project? In our case, we use state-of-the-art-technology to keep our clients updated. This technology provides us with access to real time data on job progress, incidents, inspections, QA checks etc. It enables us to track all issued instructions, record all issues and obstacles which allows all interested parties to see the information as it is recorded. This in turn helps reduce potential delays and keep the project moving forward.
5. Detailed Contract
Make sure they provide you with a contract detailing the agreed works and you are happy with it. This would cover things like costs, rough start and finish date etc. A contract is essential to protect your rights and a payment schedule must also be agreed in writing.
At Cotterill Contractors, we have been trading for 30 years and have a wealth of experience in groundworks and construction projects. We believe in good old-fashioned values like honesty, attention to detail, professionalism and delivering a job well done. These values, combined with a proven track record of completing projects on time, to the highest standard, safely and within budget, is why our customers re-use us time and time again.