8 Methods of Saving Money in the Construction Industry

Construction is also a relatively high-risk industry for those initiating projects and running their own businesses. It's highly sensitive to economic downturns, and even minor mistakes can cost tens of thousands of dollars.

You've got to spend money to make money in this $1.36 trillion dollar industry, so here are some essential methods all entrepreneurs need to know to slash their costs.

Picture 1 of 8 Methods of Saving Money in the Construction Industry

1. Focus on Cost Estimation Before Starting Your Project

One of the best ways to stop your costs from spiraling out of control is to spend more time on cost estimation. Adjusting your estimates in the middle of a project leaves you with far less wiggle room to work with.

Ensure you have all the relevant information before evaluating your costs. One wrong estimation can leave a huge financial black hole for your company. Unfortunately, it's an issue that plagues the industry, with 78% of corporate and public real estate owners saying their construction projects come in over budget.

Make sure you take the time to get a detailed understanding of each project during the planning stages.

2. Invest in Comprehensive Insurance First

Accidents happen. An employee getting seriously injured on the job, a catastrophic mistake during construction, or even a mistake during the design process can potentially cost millions.

Business insurance for the construction industry is there to protect you should the worst happen. Medical costs, attorney fees, and settlements are all covered under a comprehensive insurance policy.

While the expenses of E&O for construction companies may be significant, it pales in comparison to the costs of not being insured. Remember, you'll often need to show proof of insurance during the bidding process.

3. Form Healthy Relationships with Your Contractors/Suppliers

Construction companies rely on a solid network of contractors and suppliers to get the job done. Practice negotiating on your rates and choose long-term relationships that will support you long into the future.

If you're a startup, concentrate on expanding your network early. You shouldn't be searching for reliable contractors and suppliers after the work has already begun.

The construction industry is tough, and contractors and suppliers focus on their margins. Don't be afraid to walk away if the deal isn't right. Establish a cost-effective and efficient strategy early, and you'll reap the rewards after your project has begun.

4. Avoid Reworking as Much as Possible

Margins are not as big in the construction industry as most people think. It's not uncommon for a construction firm to lose most of its revenue because of a rework.

Reworks leading to unprepared overheads can happen. It's the nature of the business. However, most reworks occur because of poor initial planning. The consequences include schedule delays, stressed employees, and reputational damage.

Perhaps the most effective cost-saving measure of all is to invest in hiring the best contractor, using state-of-the-art construction techniques, and taking advantage of information modeling.

Planning ahead can save you a lot of pain in the long run.

5. Identify and Act on Risks

Every project comes with a degree of risk and uncertainty. Missing out on one risk can cause you to lose control of the situation. Mistakes tend to accumulate in the construction trade, emphasizing the importance of developing detailed risk assessment processes within your management setup.

It's pivotal to have a developed risk assessment system in place. Even minor risks must be treated as serious problems to help mitigate the threats to your revenue streams.

Investing in risk assessment now can avoid spending way over budget in the future.

6. Hire Multipurpose Employees

The value of a construction business is built on its staff. Larger firms can afford to have huge teams with specific tasks, but as a startup, you need to make more intelligent hires.

Multipurpose employees who carry out multiple roles support your burgeoning venture. Hiring based on flexibility, not just proficiency, allows you to streamline your team and save on the expenditure of your human resource department.

Did you know that according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, construction has a below-average turnover? It underlines the importance of generating loyalty among staff rather than trying to cut corners with temporary employees.

During the early days of your business, don't be afraid to hire quickly and fire quickly. One weak link in the chain could cost you, dear.

7. Invest in Quality Materials

Construction businesses looking to cut their costs may opt for the cheapest tools and the cheapest construction materials. Unfortunately, while this may not hurt you initially, in the long run, it can harm you in many ways.

Low-standard materials will lead to lesser quality work, more replacement costs, and frustration for your employees. Not to mention the hit your reputation will take.

Check the warranties on anything you buy and pay extra if you can get a more comprehensive warranty. Also, make sure that you're buying from a brand that's known for honoring warranty claims, otherwise, you're wasting your money and time.

8. Reduce Dead Time on the Job

Efficiency on the job suite enables you to reduce the amount of dead time that increases your costs. Seek out efficient equipment and processes that increase your productivity.

Begin by creating an inventory of the equipment you own and the equipment you expect contractors to bring along themselves.

Establish a system whereby workers need to sign materials in and out. It creates accountability and reduces the risk of loss and theft. Countless projects have been derailed because a vital tool has gone missing at the wrong time.

Your tools are your biggest investment, so take good care of them.

Conclusion

Starting a construction business is stressful and requires a lot of work. Establishing efficient processes and hiring the right personnel early will enhance your chances of success.

Reducing your dollar expenditure will grow your revenues and avoid any financial black holes. So, what are your top tips for saving money?

Samuel Daniel

Update 13 October 2022