There are a variety of ways you can support community managers and HOAs through construction projects. As professionals in the construction industry, we have seen everything from simple paint jobs to extensive re-piping. How extensive a project or repair is will dictate the level of support a community manager or HOA board will need.
Below are five ways you can support community managers and HOAs through construction projects.
Develop Initial Project Problem
While this might sound obvious, take the time to truly understand what you are trying, or think you are trying, to solve. This small step will save you time and money in the long run. Be sure to include multiple board members during this process and consider one or two board members assist management throughout the process. This will ensure that all the project knowledge is being shared through multiple people.
Engage with Experts Throughout the Process
Ensure that they have the necessary expertise throughout the project. Often times, what an HOA perceives as the problem may not be the problem at all. This is why seeking out an expert opinion is crucial in ensuring you are fixing the right thing. Conduct multiple interviews and hire the company you have the most confidence in to solve your problem. Bring in the necessary experts to guide you through your project, including everything from structural and electrical to mechanical/plumbing and architectural.
Set Deadlines
With anyone you hire, it is absolutely important to set deadlines and clear expectations. Have an open and thorough conversation to ensure each party is on the same page in terms of expectations, while also making sure these expectations are realistic ones. Oftentimes you get what you pay for when it comes to construction, so if you have very high expectations without a big budget, you are going to limit the options when it comes to selecting project partners.
Engage with an Attorney
The HOA world has a reputation for being extremely litigious. Ensure that someone has selected an HOA attorney or is working with your current HOA attorney early and throughout the entire process. This person is here to help protect you contractually and help you understand what you can and cannot do as you make decisions that impact your residents.
Hire a Construction Management Company
If your budget permits, hiring a construction management company is recommended. Construction projects are not always what they seem on the surface and are often met with complex and dynamic obstacles along the way. By hiring a construction management company, you are getting peace of mind knowing that someone is acting in your best interest throughout the entirety of the project. These professionals handle everything from initial project scope development and management to insurance management and billing. This team of individuals provides oversight and clean execution of the most complex projects with the least amount of hassle for building managers and HOAs. Construction managers lead and execute each detail and are hands-on, walking the job site daily and communicating the progress.
At the end of the day, a construction project of any size requires paying close attention to details. Regardless of budget, there are a variety of ways you can help support community mangers and HOAs through construction projects. Communication is key throughout a construction project, never be afraid to ask questions or seek clarification on things you are unsure on. When the communication begins to slip, so does the quality of work.
