Planning to hire a builder to construct your next facility?

Here are some questions to ask before you get started:

1. Do you understand my production goals and animal flow? By understanding the overall production plans, the builder will be able to advise you about facility options. It may also help to make the builder more aware of how the new building impacts pig flow and the importance of the construction schedule.
    
2. Are the costs and bid information clearly defined? Costs and bid information should be broken down by specific phases of construction so you understand what you are paying for for each of the various components.
    
3. Are contractor responsibilities clearly identified? A list of contractor responsibilities that identifies the contact person and details such as who supplies labor, equipment and materials for the project is needed.
    
4. Are producer responsibilities clearly identified? A list of owner responsibilities should identify the contact person and what is provided by the owner. For example, site preparation, electric service, telephone service and water supply are often tasks to be completed by the owner.
    
5. Have detailed drawings and specifications been developed for the project? Good plans show the layout and all dimensions and details for construction. Specifications supplement the plans to describe building materials and equipment to be used, and outline construction techniques and workmanship. Producers should review the plans and specifications and ask questions to be sure you understand what you are building. A partial list of items to be sure to look for are building loads, concrete strength, concrete reinforcement, ventilation capacity, environmental control, feed system, pen sizes and layout. Feeding and watering equipment and flooring and gating materials should be clearly specified.
    
6. What insurance and bonding is provided? Insurance, bonding and lien waivers provided by the builder should be clearly defined.
    
7. How will change-orders and substitutions of materials be handled? Change order procedures must be agreed upon by the owner and contractor to avoid any misunderstandings. Substitution of building materials during construction may be necessary due to availability or price changes. Procedures for attaining owner approval for such changes before they are incorporated should be described.
    
8. Who is responsible for permits, inspections, and approvals? Permits and regulation compliance procedures should be described, including who is responsible for obtaining and paying for required permits and inspections.
    
9. Are the completion dates, construction schedules, payment methods, and payment schedules clearly defined? Completion schedules and dates are essential parts of the contract. Be sure both you and the contractor understand when a building is ready for owner acceptance. Payment method and time of payment must be specified. Large projects often require payment at specific points during construction or specific points of substantial completion. Be sure the construction agreement (or accepted proposal) specifies who is responsible for paying subcontractors.
    
10. Who is responsible for cleanup upon completion? Cleanup upon completion of construction is usually the contractor’s responsibility but to avoid confusion or misunderstandings this should be included in the construction agreement.
     
11. What warranties are provided? Building and equipment warranties are an important part of any construction project. Be sure you receive all warranties in writing.

Consulting ag engineer Mike Veenhuizen, Greenwood, IN, contributed this list.