ABOUT
The first half of my construction career was as a carpenter building structure or applying finishes. I applied the trade as a wage-earner, then later as a subcontractor. During that time, I worked hand-in-hand with other trades, learning and subsequently understanding what everyone must do to facilitate other trades and complete projects. Later, I was recruited by various contractors to oversee construction and have continued construction management in some role or another since 1993. These roles include general contractor, project manager, construction manager, and construction owner's representative.
Norman G. Miller Jr. - President
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Buyers who contract for home or business construction may lack time or expertise to properly handle the process. Building from a distance can also be problematic. Property owners also have certain pre-construction expectations that should be documented in plans, specifications, material submittals, scheduling, and installation requirements. These items should all be included in contract documents. All contractors and subcontractors should deliver homes or buildings on time and according to contract. Building inspectors should be thorough to ensure construction meets building codes and other regulations.
However, any particular contractor, subcontractor, or building inspector might lack the experience, expertise, manpower, time, or even work ethic to properly execute the contract.
I have seen workers on-site that couldn't read blueprints. I have even been told by workers that they intended to violate the code because the code takes too much time. Contractors may have dozens of houses under construction but only one superintendent to oversee the construction. Some subcontractors hire unskilled labor just to put manpower on the job. Incorrect or insufficient materials might be substituted. Unwillingness to install products according to the manufacturer's instruction manual can void warranties and/or cause product failure.
A construction project is a series of solved problems, some expected, some not. Some problems are never found. Some problems are seen but not recognized by the inexperienced. Problems might be recognized but not addressed by builders or subcontractors if the repair is considered too costly or time-consuming.
This is not meant to condemn all construction workers; without them we would all live in caves or tents. We are all human and we make mistakes. I relate these things because owner's representation on-site can reduce non-compliance, catch mistakes, and ensure repairs are correctly performed, saving a property owner time and money.