As a 76-year-old general contractor and design-build company, Prost Builders wants to ensure that you get the best commercial general contractor for your next project. Here are some valuable tips from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) that we would like to share regarding hiring your commercial contractor: 

Check for Credentials and Insurance 

Licensing: Ensure the contractor is licensed and that it’s up to date according to local laws and regulations. 

Insurance: Make sure the contractor carries workers’ compensation coverage, property damage insurance, and liability insurance. Ask for proof of insurance and the name of the insurance agent. 

Bonding and Permits: Ask the contractor if they meet the bonding requirements of your town, county, or state, and is licensed for the type of work you need. Before construction, have them provide a performance and payment bond, plus all the necessary building permits. At the project’s end, the contractor should submit building inspection certifications showing all work has been done satisfactorily. 

Verify Reputation 

BBB Accreditation: Look for contractors who are BBB-accredited, which means they’ve met certain ethical business standards and adhere to those standards of transparency, honesty, and integrity. Prost Builders has been in business for over three-quarters of a century because we believe in these principles and let them guide us in our work. 

Get Multiple Bids 

Compare Quotes: Get at least three bids to compare the price, scope of work, and timeline. However, be cautious of bids that are significantly lower than others, as this could indicate subpar quality or hidden costs. Prost Builders is proud that it always uses only highly skilled labor, offers competitive bids, and strives to stay on budget and on time for all their projects-unless the weather or supply chain shortages prevent that. 

Review Past Projects 

Portfolio: Ask for a portfolio of past commercial projects to assess their experience and the quality of their work.  Prost Builders has the longevity, knowledge, and proven experience to showcase our ability to meet your expectations for any type of commercial project. 

References: Contact previous clients to inquire about their experience with the contractor and the quality of work provided. 

Establish a Clear Contract  
and Payment Schedule 

Written Agreement/Contract: Read the whole contract, ensure all details, including scope of work, payment schedules, timeline, and any warranties that are outlined in a written contract. Avoid verbal agreements that are not enforceable. 

Payment Schedule: Structure payments in milestones tied to project progress, not upfront or a lump sum before the work begins. Sometimes the contractor needs a down payment to cover materials, but the bulk of the money should not be due until project completion. 

Inspect Work Regularly 

Ongoing Communication: Keep an open line of communication throughout the project, schedule regular inspections, and ensure the work aligns with the contract. Prost Builders stays focused on our work to provide the client with confidence that each project is on track with the contract agreement. 

Understand Change Orders 

Change Orders: Understand the process for handling any changes to the project and ensure that all changes or additions are documented in a change order with updated pricing and timelines. This is how Prost Builders ensures you’re satisfied with a final, valuable product. Your beautiful new facility! 

Ask for a Lien Waiver: Once the project is completed, get a lien waiver, which is a statement that all suppliers and contractors have been paid for their materials and labor. 

By following these tips and contracting with Prost Builders, you have our long-standing reputation as a reputable commercial contractor that ensures quality, reliability, and a smooth construction experience.