When starting a new construction project, there are many considerations to keep in mind when keeping a construction timeline. When starting a project with a general contractor will often create a preliminary schedule with a scope of work and a design. This is to help the general contractor understand what the project’s scope is going to be and how much time and money they have available to complete the project. After the initial job is done, then a general contractor can go back and add additional projects that need to be completed based on the original project scope.
A design schedule should always be completed before beginning any work. In the case of a large project, the general contractor will generally start with a small project at a location before adding larger and more complex projects that are related to the original project. As the project progresses the overall cost and schedule will become clearer and can be adjusted accordingly. You must stay on schedule in order to avoid overruns. Overspending on material or labor can cause delays and costs to increase.
The successful job may require that some of the work to be completed sooner than it needs to be. For example a kitchen remodel may be necessary before the bathroom gets done. Keeping a construction timeline requires that you keep a running total of all work that has been completed as well as all jobs that have been created by the general contractor.
Once an overall project is completed the general contractor can start adding other projects that may have to do with the project. As the general contractor and subcontractors create jobs this can be kept up to date.
When starting a project, don’t make assumptions about things that may not be completed right away. For example, if a new or added project is needed, make sure you allow sufficient time for it to be completed. Be sure to inform your general contractor if you are changing something with your project schedule.
If the general contractor doesn’t want to add jobs, it may be required that you create another schedule. The general contractor can often be flexible regarding schedule changes and most project managers will try to accommodate them. Your general contractor should be willing to adjust his schedule if needed. If you see a schedule that you want to include with the project, you should ask your general contractor for a list of approved projects.
When doing a job, you should always make sure that your general contractor has enough materials to complete the job. Some jobs, especially when it is a remodel, will have more material that will need to be transported. Make sure that your general contractor has enough materials to finish the job.
Make sure to create a job sheet with all the work for the job. Also be sure to get an itemized bill of materials from your general contractor so that you can pay for the materials that you don’t use and stay on budget.
The job should include all materials required to complete the job. This includes materials, equipment, crew members, workers, and workers’ compensation insurance. Make sure that everything on the job is completed on time or there will be problems with it.
If your job starts to exceed the project time and money, the general contractor may want to add some projects to stay on schedule. These projects may include things like tiles, lights, flooring, cabinets, and electrical work.
If you know your general contractor and keep up with his schedule, your job will be a success. Stay on schedule and stay ahead of the curve.