No time to read the full article? Here are the main points:
- Are all documents ready in a tender pack
- What revision letter are the drawings on
- Is there an appropriate time period to return on
- How many similar-sized quality contractors are pricing
- Is the homeowner willing to meet you on site
1. Are all documents ready in a tender pack
Identify whether your clients are tender-ready with these questions. Do they have planning permissions and/or building control drawings approved? Do clients have a pricing schedule making the tender process a fair one? Is there a clear list of employer's requirements?
2. What revision letter are the drawings on
If the drawings are on letter J, that means 10 major changes of designs were made. This is likely to have been at the request of the homeowner, which either could indicate their indecision or the architect's poor ability to understand what is required. This is a sign that relations could be difficult!
3. Is there an appropriate time period to return on
Two weeks can be acceptable for a small job, but not a major home renovation. We usually see at Weaver a timeframe of 3 to 5 weeks from the date of the site visit.
4. How many similar-sized quality contractors are pricing
Having too many contractors invited to tender suggests a homeowner is looking for the cheapest price and doesn’t value the time it takes contractors to tender. We like to see 3 similar-sized, quality contractors on a tender.
5. Is the homeowner willing to meet you on site
Clients, not just the architect, should engage with builders during a site visit. If they’re unwilling to even meet you on site, they’re likely not good at building relationships. Site visits allow you to build rapport with clients and get a better sense of their vision for the project directly from them.
Want to work on tenders that have been pre-vetted? Sign up to Weaver today