Pre-construction is a critical phase of any construction project. There are a number of things that you will need to take into consideration during pre-construction, such as setting a budget, establishing a timeline, evaluating existing site conditions, finalizing designs, and obtaining permits.
What Is Pre Construction?
Pre-construction is the planning phase of a construction project. It includes all of the processes and activities that take place before work on the actual structure begins.
The pre construction phase usually begins with the owner or developer of a project hiring an architect or design team. The architect or design team will create drawings and plans for the proposed construction. This phase includes activities such as feasibility studies, site selection, and budgeting, as well.
The pre-construction manager will typically prepare cost estimates as the design develops from conceptual to final design. If the owner or developer decides to move forward with the project, all involved parties will sign a construction contract, and construction can begin.
Ganneston Construction is a full-service construction management firm offering pre-construction services. We have a team of highly experienced professionals who can help you with every step of your project, from the initial planning stages through completion.
Why Pre Construction Planning Matters
Pre-construction planning is important because it sets the foundation for a successful construction project. By taking the time to carefully plan and prepare for your project, you can avoid many potential problems that could arise during construction.
Save Time & Money
By taking the time to plan everything out before construction begins, you can avoid costly mistakes and delays. A well-planned project will be completed more quickly and efficiently, saving you time and money in the long run.
Promote Coordination & Cohesion
Pre-construction planning helps to ensure that everyone involved in the project is on the same page. The pre-construction process can help you avoid miscommunication and conflict later on.
Improve Quality Control
When you plan everything in advance, you can more easily track materials and monitor the quality of workmanship. This helps to ensure that the finished project meets your high standards.
Ensure Construction Proceeds Smoothly
When you invest in pre-construction services, you can make sure that all of the necessary steps are completed in a timely and efficient manner. This will help to ensure that your construction project proceeds as expected from start to finish.
Questions to Ask Builder During Pre Construction Planning
If you are planning to build a new commercial building, it is important to have a pre construction meeting with your builder and any other involved parties. This meeting gives you the opportunity to discuss the plans for the project in-depth and to make sure that everyone involved is on the same page.
During the pre construction planning, you should take the time to ask your builder any questions that you have about the project. By doing so, you can ensure that you understand the plans and that you are comfortable with the builder’s proposed course of action.
Some important pre construction planning questions you should ask include:
- What is the proposed construction schedule?
- What is the estimated completion date?
- How much will the project cost?
- What are the payment terms?
- Who is responsible for obtaining the necessary permits and approvals?
- Who will be responsible for managing the construction site?
- What are the safety procedures that will be in place during construction?
By asking these questions, you can gain a better understanding of the construction process and make sure that everything is on track.
Preparing for A Productive Pre Construction Meeting Onsite

Once the project is ready to move forward it is important to have a productive pre construction meeting onsite. This meeting should include the owner or developer, the architect or design team, the construction manager/general contractor, and any subcontractors who will be involved in the project.
What is a Pre Construction Meeting?
A pre construction meeting is a meeting held before construction begins. The purpose of this meeting is to coordinate the efforts of everyone involved in the project and to make sure that everyone is on the same page.
During the pre construction meeting, all involved parties will gather to discuss the project in-depth. This meeting is an important opportunity for everyone involved in the project to ask questions and voice any concerns. By addressing these issues early on, you can avoid potential problems later on.
For optimal results, your pre construction meeting agenda should involve:
- Communicating the requirements and expectations
- Reviewing the plans for the proposed construction
- Discussing the construction schedule and substantial completion requirements
- Identifying any risks or problems that could arise during construction
- Discussing safety and environmental requirements
- Reviewing the submittal, RFI, change order, billing, and closeout processes
- Giving sub-contractors the opportunity to ask questions
By taking the time to prepare for a productive pre construction meeting, you can make sure that your project gets off to a good start.
How to Make Your Pre Construction Process a Success
Making your pre construction process a success requires careful planning and coordination. You can ensure that your project gets off to a good start by taking the necessary planning steps. In addition, working with an experienced builder will help to make sure that your project proceeds smoothly from start to finish.
If you want your pre-construction phase to be productive, you should strive to:
- Make sure that everyone involved in the project is on the same page
- Take the time to ask questions and voice any concerns
- Work to understand the plans and that you are comfortable with the builder’s proposed course of action
- Ask your builder any questions that you have about the project
- Gain a better understanding of the construction process and make sure that everything is on track
- Prepare a pre construction meeting checklist for a productive meeting and coordinate the efforts of everyone involved
Contact Ganneston Construction For Commercial Pre Construction Services
If you need assistance with the pre construction process for your commercial building project, the team at Ganneston Construction can help. We have years of experience working on a variety of commercial construction projects and can provide the services you need to make your project a success.
For more information about our commercial pre construction services, contact us today. We will be happy to answer any questions you have and to provide you with a quote for our services.