Shopping mall construction can be complex and complicated. It can also be ambitious taking into account the nature and scope of construction. Mall construction is no small project work. It requires enormous investment with meticulous planning and strong expertise.
You need to choose the right building contractor, be it for new shopping mall or renovation of existing one. The quality of the mall construction and timely delivery with cost-effectiveness and overall execution will to a large extent depend on the kind of building contractor you choose.
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO FOR THE RIGHT SELECTION?
The following tells what needs to be done for the right selection.
UNDERSTAND YOUR MALL CONSTRUCTION PROJECT SCOPE
Malls can vary in complexity and size. Different contactors will have experience with different kinds of mall projects. Hence, you need to be clear before searching for contractors, about your mall construction project’s scope. This includes its size, design, and purpose. Also, be clear about its timeline and budget constraints.
KEY CONSIDERATIONS FOR PROJECT SCOPE
NATURE OF CONSTRUCTION:
Be clear on this.
- Are you constructing a small, local shopping mall? OR
- Are you constructing a large, multi-level commercial complex with mixed-used spaces like offices or residential areas?
DESIGN REQUIREMENTS:
Does shopping mall
- Require a unique, custom design? OR
- Require specific architectural elements?
Your selection choice should accommodate these needs.
TIMELINE:
- How quickly do you want the mall construction?
Make sure your selection choice is a contractor with a proven track record of completing on time projects.
BUDGET:
- Be realistic and clear about your budget. Ensure the contactor you’re looking to hire can deliver within your budget financial scope quality mall construction.
RESEARCH AND SHORTLIST CONTRACTORS WITH RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
Experience is an important factor. This is more especially when it comes to shopping mall construction. It’s a highly specialized area requiring skilled expertise in design and construction.
A building contractor with experience on similar such projects are better placed. They can anticipate potential challenges. Also, provide throughout the construction process critical insights.
KEY QUERIES TO ASK
- EXPERIENCE WITH MALL CONSTRUCTION: Does the contractor have experience? If so, in malls construction or similar commercial complexes. They should be familiar with mall construction’s unique needs. Like large open spaces, parking areas, compliance with safety norms, and public amenities.
- COMPLETED PROJECTS: Ask for a portfolio of earlier mall constructions. They give insight into their capabilities. Also, their ability to execute large-scale projects successfully.
- REFERENCES AND TESTIMONIALS: Ask from past clients, references. Also, look up online reviews. Positive testimonials from previous mall projects.
BEST CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES IN INDIA
Several reputable construction companies when it comes to mall construction have proved their capabilities.
Some of the best construction companies in India with specialization in shopping mall construction include,
- Thikedaar.
- L&T Construction.
- Shapoorji Pallonji Group.
- DLF Limited.
- TATA Projects, etc.
EVALUATE THE CONTRACTOR’S REPUTATION & TRACK RECORD
When selecting, contractor’s reputation is of critical importance. A reputable contractor can be instantly trusted. They can be relied upon to deliver quality work. They can be trusted to adhere to budgets and timelines.
STEPS TO EVELUATE REPUTATION
CHECK INDUSTRY CERTIFICATIONS:
- Ensure the contractor has from credible industry bodies’ valid certifications. Like the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC); OR the Bureau Of Indian Standards (BIS). They indicate high-quality standards.
VISIT PAST PROJECTS:
- Visit if possible some completed projects. They provide an insight into construction’s quality. And, see up-close the attention to detail paid to the construction work.
ONLINE REVIEWS AND RATINGS:
- Check for feedback from other customers about the contractor’s reliability and quality of work. Like Just Dial, Google Reviews, or Sulekha. They provide critical customer feedback.
WORD OF MOUTH:
- Ask for recommendations from other developers or professionals. Personal referrals tend to give insights that are otherwise not available always online.
CONSIDER THE CONTRACTOR’S FINANCIAL STABILITY
For mall construction, sufficient financial investment is critical. Hence, a contractor’s financial stability and creditworthiness is vital. This will ensure the project without delays or cost overruns gets completed. Those who are financially stable are more likely to have access to requisite resources, workforce, equipment, and contracts – vital requirements for a large-sale mall construction project.
ASK FOLLOWING QUERIES
FINANCIAL HEALTH:
- Does the contractor have a solid financial foundation?
Ask for detailed financial statements or other documents. They give an idea of their financial standing.
PAYMENT TERMS:
- Discuss payment structures upfront.
- Be clear about how payments will be made throughout the construction process.
Ensure the terms of payment are favorable for you as well as contractor.
INSURANCE AND BONDING:
- Ensure the contractor is fully insured and bonded.
This will protect you as well as the contractor. They protect during the construction process, for accidents, delays, or other issues.
ASSESS THE CONTRACTOR’S WORKFORCE AND RESOURCES
Mall construction is a complex work of art. You need skilled workforce with proper equipment and access to quality materials. Your selection of contractor should possess the requisite resources with personnel to manage every project aspect efficiently.
KEY CONSIDERATIONS
SKILLED WORKFORCE:
- Ensure contractor has skilled workforce. Including architects, engineers, and project managers. Also, construction laborers.
- Ensure they have experience in mall construction.
SUBCONTRACTORS:
- Contractors for specialized tasks often work with sub-contractors. Like plumbing and electrical work, etc.
EQUIPMENT AND TECHNOLOGY:
- Have access to modern construction equipment and technology.
- Have access to the use of advanced project management tools and software. This ensures efficient, safe construction practices.
PRIORTIZE SAFETY AND COMPLIANCE WITH LOCAL REGULATIONS
Mall construction projects should conform to safety standards and local regulations. Hence, it’s critical the contractor h is familiar with them. Additionally, should prioritize on the job site safety. This includes ensuring all work is done in line with building codes and zoning laws. Also, the project should conform to environmental regulations.
SAFETY PROTOCOLS:
Find out, Find out if the contractor has
- Strong safety record?
- Safety protocols in place to prevent accidents on-site?
Check their safety plan. Also, any certifications they hold in occupational health and safety.
COMPLIANCE WITH CODES:
Ensure contractor is
- Knowledgeable. Knows all about the local building codes, zoning regulations, and environmental laws.
- Aware of non-compliance could lead to expensive delays. Or even in some cases, legal issues.
SUSTAINABILITY:
Make sure if seeking to build an eco-friendly mall, contractor is experienced in sustainable construction practices. And, also capable of meeting green building standards.
SEEK DETAILED ESTIMATES & COMPARE QUOTES
Request detailed estimates before making final decision, from each contractor.
These estimates should
- Outline the scope of work. Including the cost of materials, labor, and any additional services or fees.
- Be clear and transparent. This will allow you to compare contractors and make an informed decision. Decision taken based on the overall value they provide.
FACTORS TO CONSIDER IN AN ESTIMATE
- COST BREAKDOWN: Ensure the quote includes a detailed cost breakdown. This will allow you to check where your money is exactly being used.
- CONTINGENCY PLAN: Ask for an outline of contingency plan. This is in case of unexpected issues or cost overruns.
- TIMELINE: Make sure the estimate clearly mentions the timeline. Remember that delays can be expensive. So it is important to select a contractor who adheres to the proposed schedule.
LOOK FOR A CONTRACTOR WITH GOOD COMMUNICATION SKILLS
Effective communication throughout the mall construction process is critical.
They help
- Project work proceed smoothly.
- Work closely with architects and designers. Also, other stakeholders.
- Facilitate regular updation on construction work progress.
- Resolve any issues quickly.
HOW TO ASSESS COMMUNCIATION?
RESPONSIVENESS:
Find out,
- Does the contractor respond to calls, emails, and inquires, promptly?
- Is the contractor easy to reach and quick to respond?
CLEAR COMMUNICATION:
Find out,
- Does the contractor explain complex construction details?
- Is contractor’s explanation easy to understand?
Clear communication helps avoid misunderstanding. Else it could lead to problems down the line.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT TOOLS:
- Project management software is used by some contractors. They provide on construction progress, real-time updates. Find out if the contractor has such tools in place.
CONCLUSION
Choosing for shopping mall construction the right building contractor is a critical decision. To play safe, take your time to research and evaluate potential contractors. This should be done based on their experience, expertise and skills, reputation, finance stability, workforce, communication skills, and safety practices. You can find the right building contractor. Also, ensure your mall construction is to the highest standards completed on time within budget.
Thikedaar, among the best construction companies in India, specializes in mall construction with a proven track record of delivering successful projects. Enlisting its services for your malls construction you can ensure their success and profitability.
