Edmonton Construction Services

A general contractor, also known as a main contractor or prime contractor, offers a wide range of services primarily associated with the commercial construction industry.  Home renovation services from a general contractor can sometimes be similar, but it is important to note the differences, especially when it comes to code and finishes.  General contracting services, especially from general contractors in commercial, industrial or retail construction are very different to general contractors that specialize in home renovations.

Here are some services that commercial general contractors typically provide:

1. Project Management: A general contractor oversees the entire project from start to finish. This includes organizing and directing construction activities, coordinating with subcontractors, and ensuring everything is done on time and within budget.
2. Hiring Subcontractors: General contractors have a network of subcontractors with whom they regularly work. They will hire and manage these subcontractors who specialize in specific areas such as plumbing, electrical, roofing, carpentry, etc.
3. Permits and Regulations Compliance: In Canada, different provinces have different regulations and permit requirements for construction. A general contractor understands these requirements and will ensure that all work is compliant with local regulations and any necessary permits are obtained.
4. Procurement of Materials: General contractors are responsible for obtaining all the necessary materials required for the construction project. They have contacts with suppliers and can often procure materials at better rates.
5. Quality Control: Ensuring high quality of work is a crucial part of a general contractor’s job. They are responsible for inspecting the work of subcontractors, ensuring it meets the planned specifications, and complying with safety standards.
6. Estimation and Bidding: General contractors provide cost estimates for projects and may participate in a bidding process to win contracts.
7. Design and Planning: Some general contractors offer design and planning services, working with architects and designers to help translate your vision into a workable plan.
8. Insurance and Bonding: In Canada, reputable general contractors will have insurance to cover potential accidents or damages that may occur during the project. Some may also offer bonding services, which provides financial protection to the property owner if the contractor fails to complete the project as agreed.

Remember to always verify the qualifications and credentials of a general contractor before hiring one for your construction project in Canada. The contractor should be licensed, insured, and in good standing with the relevant provincial or territorial construction industry association.

Commercial construction contractors provide general contracting services and primarily focus on the building, renovation, and maintenance of commercial structures. These can include office buildings, retail stores, restaurants, hotels, hospitals, schools, and other public and business facilities. Here are some of the services commercial construction contractors typically provide:

1. Construction of New Buildings: Commercial contractors are responsible for the construction of new commercial buildings from the ground up. This includes everything from site preparation and foundation work to the construction of the structure itself, all the way to final finishing touches.
2. Renovations and Remodeling: These contractors also handle renovations to existing buildings, such as updating an outdated interior, expanding a current structure, or making changes to better suit a building to a new purpose or business.
3. Tenant Improvements: If a commercial space is being leased, the contractor may be hired to make tenant improvements – customizing the space to fit the specific needs of the business that will be occupying it.
4. Project Management: Commercial contractors manage all aspects of a project, coordinating with architects, engineers, subcontractors, and suppliers. They also ensure work is completed on schedule and within budget.
5. Compliance and Permits: These contractors ensure all work complies with local and national building codes and regulations. They handle obtaining necessary permits and arrange for inspections to validate that construction meets all required standards.
6. Maintenance and Repairs: Some commercial construction contractors also offer ongoing maintenance services for the buildings they construct or even those they didn’t. They may handle routine maintenance, repairs, and upgrades to keep the building in top condition and compliant with any changing regulations.
7. Safety Management: In any construction project, safety is a top concern. Commercial contractors implement safety protocols and manage risk to ensure a safe working environment on the job site.
8. Renovation Services: Many general contractors will also provide renovation services as opposed to new build services.  This is not your typical basement development, home renovation project or deck construction, these professionals typically renovate entire buildings for retail, commercial, industrial or new multi-purpose facilities.

In Canada, commercial contractors are required to be licensed and insured, and many have specific certifications or affiliations with professional organizations, such as the Canadian Construction Association or regional associations. They need to understand and adhere to the Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, as well as any specific provincial or territorial regulations.

The cost of hiring a commercial general contractor can vary widely depending on many factors, including the scope of the project, the location, the complexity of the construction, and the current market conditions.

Typically, commercial general contractors charge a percentage of the total construction cost as their fee, which can range from 10% to 20% or even more. This percentage may vary depending on whether the project is a new construction or a renovation, with new constructions often having a slightly lower percentage.

For instance, if you have a commercial project that costs CAD 1,000,000 in total construction expenses, the contractor’s fee could range from CAD 100,000 to CAD 200,000 if they are charging a 10-20% fee.

However, some contractors may prefer to work on a cost-plus basis, where they charge the actual cost of labor and materials plus a fixed fee or percentage as their profit. Others might prefer a fixed-price or lump-sum contract, where a single price covers both their services and the cost of the project.

In all cases, the specifics of how a contractor charges for their services and what is included in their fee should be clearly outlined in your contract agreement.

Also, remember that while cost is a significant factor in choosing a contractor, it’s not the only one. Consider their experience, reputation, communication skills, and comfort level with your specific type of project.

Please note that prices can change over time due to various factors such as inflation, changes in labor costs, and fluctuating material prices, so it’s always a good idea to get a current quote from contractors for your specific project.

An Edmonton general contractor, or general contracotrs in Edmonton need to understand the nuances of Edmonton when undertaking commercial construction in Edmonton, Alberta.  There are specific codes, styles and requirements that are uniquely Canadian and uniquely Edmonton.

1. Permits and Regulations: Edmonton has specific building codes and regulations you must follow, as well as permits you need to obtain before starting construction. It’s important to familiarize yourself with these requirements or to hire a contractor who is knowledgeable about them. You can find more information on the City of Edmonton’s website.
2. Climate Considerations: Edmonton’s climate can be challenging for construction. It’s known for its cold winters, which can delay construction schedules and affect materials. Your project planning and timeline should take the climate into consideration.
3. Local Market Conditions: The costs of labor and materials can vary depending on local market conditions. It’s beneficial to understand these conditions and how they might affect your project’s budget and timeline.
4. Hiring Local: Consider hiring a local contractor who understands the local regulations, has relationships with local suppliers and subcontractors, and is familiar with the local market conditions and climate-related challenges.
5. Energy Efficiency and Sustainability: Edmonton has been making strides in promoting sustainable and energy-efficient buildings. There are various programs and incentives to encourage this, such as the Edmonton Green Building Plan. Depending on your project, it might be beneficial to consider sustainable and energy-efficient designs and technologies.
6. Community Engagement: Depending on the scale and location of your project, community engagement might be necessary. Keeping the local community informed and addressing their concerns can help avoid potential roadblocks and ensure a smoother construction process.
7. Professional Associations: The Alberta Construction Association and the Edmonton Construction Association are two of the key professional organizations for construction in the region. These associations provide resources and support for both contractors and clients, and being a member or hiring a contractor who is a member can provide added assurance of professionalism and quality.

Remember to always hire licensed and insured professionals for your commercial construction projects. They should be in good standing with the appropriate professional and regulatory bodies in Alberta, such as the Alberta Construction Safety Association and the Alberta Building Code.