How can you maintain a positive relationship with a contractor?

Controversial opinion here, but #1 mistake I see people do all the time is fish for cheapest bid. And especially when the discount is drastic. Quality contractors do not take shortcuts, they know how to communicate issues, and propose solution. They also know how to staff their jobs, and staff them with qualified workers, know how to plan ahead and invest in safety. Those are all expenses that a lower tier contractor will never account for and sadly by the time you realize the value of those attributes it's already too late.

Building a relationship with you contractor is essential, there is a huge amount of symbiosis in the relationship. Firstly, accept your contractor needs to make money. In my experience, those projects where the contractor has made money have been the most successful for all parties. Second, know what you want. All too often companies enter into contracts without clarity on the outcomes they anticipate. Clearly articulate those and you are more likely to get what you want. Finally, invest in the relationship. These are long term relationships that may be fundamental to your business outcomes. Ensure you know your contractor, it also might assist in ensuring they want to do a good job for you.

For some of new contractors (we tend to employ larger contractors) I like to ask for a visit to their offices and a tour of their workspace. I find insight of their ‘behind the scenes’ set up and how well they have invested for their people, provides a good gauge on their priorities.

No matter if you are contractor or client, the key for enabling relationship is the "respect". Always consider your contractors as partners and demonstrate respectful behaviour with them. Create a collaborative environment without existence of fear and or superiority.

In my experience, we should hold many technical meetings with short list contractors before choosing the final one, during these meetings we can see which contractor is reliable, can meet the deadline by adding an additional resources and team forces, understanding the technical requirements. we should perform site visit and audit to contractors' site and offices to check their installation, quality of work, documentation work and their clear organisation chart.

When communicating with contractors I try to stay focused on the current facts. Unless you know the contractor really well, communication should be kept on a formal, factual basis. Naturally over time communication becomes more relaxed and friendly. But it’s very important to focus on facts in meetings and written communication. This is particularly the case when a contractor becomes overly defensive. All people have emotions and perspective that can change day to day. For myself, focusing on the current facts rather than dredging up emotional, past situations keeps me grounded and allows me the energy to clearly deal with the present situation.

Perhaps the easiest question I've answered. Install pride in whatever work they're doing. If you're a CM, provide timely progress reporting from the designers. Address and walk through their list with the contractor[s]. Show that the report and your assistance are to be a help, not a hindrance. Always show praise for good work in front of others, it builds team effort. Always reprimand or address nagging, recurring issues in private. One on one is the best path here. Above all Lead by Example. This combined with contractor communication, problem solving skills, and positive attitude will help all contractors on their path toward completion.

o Establish open and transparent communication from the beginning. Make sure both parties understand their roles and responsibilities. o Create a detailed contract or agreement that outlines the project scope, timeline, budget, and any specific requirements. o Treat the contractor with respect and professionalism at all times. Avoid micromanaging and trust their expertise. o Address any issues or conflicts diplomatically and in a timely manner. o Address any issues or disputes with alternative dispute resolution methods. o Schedule regular meetings or check-ins to review progress, discuss any concerns o A positive attitude can be contagious and contribute to a more productive working environment

Wrong! You properly mot the contractor before you start him, you trade test ALL his or her operatives, only then you list his labour and make clear no changes in operational labour unless you ok it, no changes allowed unless you agree. You take serious control IMMEDIATELY from the start, only way. Malcolm C

Communication is one of the most important skills you require for a successful project, by clear communication we can reach the goals, milestones of the projects and finalize the project successfully.

Clarity about the requirements and expectations from the contractor are needed from the beginning. Regular review of timeline, budget and project changes are also important for a successful collaboration. The contractor and their team should be treated with respect and their expertise valued.

La construcción de un proyecto es un esfuerzo común, y los objetivos deben estar alineados. Esto se refuerza con una buena comunicación, entendiendo que cada parte tiene su cometido y sus expectativas concretas, pero forman parte del mismo equipo. Es necesario establecer un entorno donde sea posible aportar soluciones. Así, conjugando la experiencia del contratista con los conocimientos técnicos del equipo de proyecto, se puede llegar a un grado de excelencia difícilmente alcanzable de otro modo

Maintaining a positive relationship with a contractor hinges on clear and consistent communication. By openly discussing expectations, timelines, and potential challenges, you can build trust and collaboration, ensuring that your design vision is executed seamlessly and to your satisfaction. A well-informed and communicative partnership—and often scheduled weekly meetings—fosters a harmonious working relationship and a happy client, essential in achieving successful interior design projects.

Communication is the most important and often over looked key to any successfull relationship. If the team is not communicating they are doing themselves a disservice.

Maintaining a positive relationship with a contractor can be achieved with a clear contract scope, following up the progress by hinting at the issues, and sharing to solve and close the problems.

I agree, after rescuing many over budget behind schedule I found the root of the problems boiled down to ineffective communication. First area was expectation: Owners and their reps did not completely outline their expectations, although to be fair the were not always clear in their thinking about what the end product should be. And contractors, often in expectation of change orders, did not clearly communicate what they were going to deliver. Project Managers need to address this with rigor during the earliest " front end loading" of the job and manage clear, detailed information flow to and beyond Certification of Completion.

As well as checking up on timelines and progress reports, you need to facilitate effective communication with your contractors. Make sure you keep lines of communication open and can quickly bring them up to speed and advise of any changes. One way to do this is to plan regular site meetings where you can talk face to face.

Communicate Early, Communicate Often and Communicate Clearly! Communication begins as early as possible, including bid packets, Pre-construction meetings. Communicate as often as possible with daily/weekly/monthly meetings. Make sure what you say is what is intended to be heard and what is actually heard. Last but not least, Communication is a two-way street, make sure you listen to your contractors and your clients.

Communication is the key. Open dialogue is a recipe for success. Clearly defines the type person you are and lets a sub know what to expect.

If you hired them for their expertise, respect their opinions and guidance. Let them do what they do best. If you feel the need to micromanage the how, maybe you picked the wrong outfit.

Evitar microgerenciamento e interferências desnecessárias demonstra confiança. Reconhecer e respeitar horários e limites pessoais, além de valorizar a contribuição e experiência, são práticas fundamentais para um relacionamento bem-sucedido no contexto profissional.

Being precise on and detailed on the scope, specs, schedules and budget at the beginning of the project goes a long way towards maintaining a positive relationship. A lot of misunderstanding and disagreement stems from the difference between the expectations of the two parties. As others have already stated this boils down to establish decent communication.

Keep it Professional! Never put yourself in a position where you or the contractor becomes uncomfortable. Accept nothing and expect nothing for personal gain. Hold each and every contractor to the same standards.

In my experience, being realistic about timelines and budgets, and working together on solutions rather than assigning blame, strengthens partnerships and leads to better project outcomes.

Everyone on the construction team will have both positive and negative impacts on the project. A good team recognizes this and works to minimize their own and other's negative impacts for the success of the project.

One the must important item is having a job schedule that provides accurate time lines. One solution is to create 2 or 3 week lookahead. Schedules are crucial, weekly job site meeting helps keep jobs on schedule or address problems. This will help maintain the levels of manpower needed that will control hours and job cost.

I think good advice to someone seeking a contractor is that you should first focus your mind that you seek a solution. That is, there is one or more problems you wish to solve, and that a good contractor is a problem solver. When both of you are driven to find solutions, rather than focus on problems, you will create a good relationship with the contractor who meets your other criteria.

Maintaining a positive relationship with a contractor involves being flexible and accommodating within the scope of the project. It means understanding their needs and constraints, addressing concerns promptly, and collaborating to find mutually beneficial solutions. Open communication, fair treatment, and a willingness to adapt when necessary are key to a successful contractor-client relationship.

Communication is a two-way street; you need to ensure you don’t just give your contractors information; you need to also listen. Give them the opportunity to tell you how the job is progressing from their perspective, what the key challenges are, and what you can do to help. By listening, you will make them feel valued, and they will be much more likely to let you know of any issues before they escalate.

"Flexibility makes buildings to be strong, imagine what it can do to your soul" (Carlos Barrios), I would ask, imagine what it can do in a working relationship. Being understanding and flexible can be a bonus during those stormy times that would normally cause so much permanent damage.

This one is very simple: respect and trust demonstrated through prompt payments, yield positive, long-lasting partnerships...

This is super important! A simple thing such as on-time payment goes a long way in good contractors wanting to be part of your projects.

Yes.. payment to contractors on time results in good productivity and withholding for unwanted reasons will affect long term association with Clients

Prompt payment is key but the contractor must also understand the payment process and all steps required for owners to procure their funding. Lenders are in charge right now making it very difficult to pay every 30 days. The current market is very difficult to obtain funding without having to provide so much backup and inspections for every draw. Payment is key but understanding of the process goes a long way from the Owner side too.

Atrasos ou disputas de pagamento podem prejudicar a confiança e a credibilidade entre as partes envolvidas. É importante que ambas as partes entendam as condições e o cronograma de pagamento e sigam-nos fielmente. Além disso, é importante lembrar que o pagamento justo e rápido é uma forma de demonstrar respeito e confiança ao contratante. Retenção de pagamentos por questões menores ou não relacionadas pode ser vista como uma falta de consideração e pode prejudicar o relacionamento.

Be selective that the Contractor is qualified with the scope and requirements on the project. Communicate effectively, be flexible and be a good team player when dispute or delays arises and the most important at all pay the Contractor on time and be fair when assessing the claim and give a positive feedback when required in order to build a trust and respect.

Couldn’t have said it better myself. Too many company’s out there prepared to put the smaller contractors at risk by not paying on time, or the full contracted price. Even when there is no justifiable cause. I’m retired now but when I was working, this seemed to be a regular occurrence. Simply NOT ACCEPTABLE.

Ich persönlich bearbeite berechtigte Rechnungen, für die entsprechende Leistungen erbracht worden sind, möglichst innerhalb von maximal 3 Werktagen. Dies sollte bei einer guten Zusammenarbeit selbstverständlich sein.

Make a clear contract with specific compliance requirements : You need to clearly define scope of your project. Next, you need to choose the right contractor for the job, ultimately the person or company with the right knowledge, expertise and resources. Once you’ve chosen your contractor, you need to draft a contract that makes expectations clear, including scope, timings and responsibilities during the project.

If I liked someone and felt like they were treating me as their peer and not beneath them I always did a little more for them. Kindness and respect go a long way.

Noting they’re all six correct, paying on time at a fair and reasonable rate with limiting Change orders on both sides is crucial. So , a completed SOW, scope of work is critical to establish an accurate contract with an agreed upon pay cycle that never gets missed or cluttered up with time consuming or constraints due to paperwork, i.e., change orders, RFP’s, RFI’s, etc! Equally important is establishing a professional relation not with just a contractor or subcontractor, you must make a concentrate effort and establish

Feedback is part of the communication process. Begin early, often and clearly. Good feedback can improve the process of work, relationship and future recommendations.

In the fast-paced construction industry, conflicts are inevitable—whether about pay, quality, safety, or other issues. Prioritizing objective, reliable data in your arguments fosters a positive work culture. This approach minimizes accusations, encourages transparency, and cultivates a more productive environment. By steering away from emotional responses, professionals contribute to a constructive atmosphere where clear communication and evidence-based decision-making prevail, ultimately enhancing teamwork and project success.

Treat the contractor with respect and professionalism. Acknowledge their expertise and experience, and listen to their suggestions and concerns.

By ensuring the contract is fair. The owners should also ensure they hired qualified contractors who have the ability to deliver the job on time and on budget. Being fair and shifting the risk to those who are qualified build a trust environment. Construction is a social process, therefore, having a good relationship with construction project stakeholders is a crucial aspect that must be maintained. Failing to do so will result in a divided team where each member aims to achieve their own goals without taking into consideration the project’s interests. By the end of the day, we need to be sure that everyone is happily completing their tasks.

This is a Critical and potentially a long-term Relationship. If it feels like 1 and done early reconsider in Pre-Construction Phase if the shoe does not fit. Important to be able to select a Team that is Collaborative with Genuine interest in Mutual Project Success. Be sure and have a good agenda and stick to that agenda, weekly OAC's etc. etc. set the stage. Owners have to Understand the urgency that GC's have to meet with respect to long lead and keeping on track with all "GMP or lump-sum" Goals. Be Firm at the same time be Respectful. Keeping these in focus usually leads to a Great Outcome.

Two words cover it for me "good communication" at all times even pre contract. Start as you mean to go on. Soon as communication breaks down all is lost.

He tenido la oportunidad de ser contratista y también representante del cliente/dueño, por lo que desde mi experiencia: la buena comunicación, roles claros y el cumplimiento de los compromisos son buenas practicas a considerar, pero pienso que la colaboración con transparencia y foco en un objetivo común es la mejor forma de mantener una relación positiva. Esto es un desafío para nuestra cultura porque: 1) el contratista cree que el cliente/dueño no reconocerá trabajos, impactos u otros que derivan en costo, plazo o condonaciones que derivan en penalizaciones. 2) el cliente/dueño no asume un rol colaborativo y busca imponer su posición sin estar abierto a alternativas que sean de beneficio mutuo.

Not sure if anyone has mentioned this, but I believe It is crucial that there of course be a signed contract with all the details, but perhaps equally important is that any deviations from the original scope of work be agreed upon and a “change order” form signed by both parties. This eliminates the guesswork or reason for disagreements when it’s time to pay. Even the slightest changes add up quickly and can destroy your profit if they aren’t billed. Ultimately my point is that everything be in writing especially the changes. It will make the relationship with the contractor much easier.

Clear cut communication is absolutely "KEY" !!! I have seen in many different industries where little communication has gotten businesses and how fast it can change how a job goes. With clear cut communication, the chances of hostile environment's on the job site were significantly lower.

To maintain a positive relationship with your Contractor is to treat him like a true party to the common greater objective of the Success of the Project. When parties are able to build that they conduct themselves as a focused team that plans well, executes well, acknowledge and solve the problems as one. Remember that it is the people in the project that will deliver so building an environment of trust, transparency and technical treatment is essential for all stakeholders!👍

Proper Preliminary Engineering can prevent many misunderstandings. Understand fully what you want from your project and communicate this with your contractor. If you are not capable of handling this due to lack of expertise, hire a consultant to be your representative on the project. Often the engineer that has done the Preliminary or detailed engineering is perfect for this. This rep should also have ample field experience to know what is feasible to be constructed. Not all engineers have this skill.