Choosing a commercial contractor is a big decision. The team you hire will impact your budget, your schedule, and how smoothly your business can keep operating while work is underway.
This guide is for Kamloops business owners planning an office, retail, restaurant, clinic, or other commercial project. Use it as a checklist when you are comparing commercial construction companies.
Look for Commercial Experience
Commercial construction is different from residential work for several reasons, including:
- Scope: Generally, commercial construction and renovation projects are much larger than residential projects. As such, they require different materials and equipment.
- Cost: Due to the larger size, commercial renovations also tend to cost more than residential renovations.
- Code requirements: Commercial projects need to meet stricter requirements and regulations related to safety, accessibility, and fire codes.
When you are looking at contractors, ask about their commercial portfolio—not just homes. Look for past projects that are similar to your space and business type, and ask for references from other business owners.
Added Bonus: Kamloops Expertise
Seasoned commercial construction companies know the ins and outs of the Kamloops climate, which helps streamline your project. Look out for established companies (like Interior Elite!) that have decades of experience working and building in Kamloops and the surrounding areas.
Ask About Licences, Insurance, and Safety Programs
Before you move forward with any contractor, make sure the basics are in place. In British Columbia, commercial contractors should have proper licensing and insurance coverage. This protects you, your staff, and your customers.
Ask each contractor to walk you through their safety program. For multi-tenant buildings, they should also be comfortable coordinating with building management on safety rules and procedures. Specific things to look out for include:
- Current BC contractor licensing
- Liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage
- Written safety program and site procedures
Review Commercial Construction Process
Every contractor has a slightly different way of running projects. Some are involved early, helping with design and pricing; others come in after drawings are complete. What matters most is that you understand how they work and what you can expect.
Ask the contractor to outline their process from the first meeting to the final walkthrough. A clear, step-by-step approach makes it easier for you to plan for your team, your customers, and your timelines. Key details about their process could include:
- Communication and project management: Who is your main point of contact? Will your project have a dedicated project manager? How regularly will you receive updates related to your project?
- Budget: Does the quote offer a detailed description of costs, including what is (and isn’t) included? Is there a contingency allowance?
- Scheduling: How does your contractor plan to accommodate your business hours? Will your business need to close, or will they work around your hours? How much will this renovation disrupt your business?
Cost, timeline, and contingency are all essential details. Ensure you have a clear picture of what to expect—this will help your construction or renovation project run as smoothly as possible.
Checklist: Choosing the Right Kamloops Commercial Construction Contractor
Ready to get started? Take this simple checklist with you when you are meeting with commercial contractors in Kamloops:
- Experience: Do they have commercial experience with projects similar to your space? What local Kamloops projects have they worked on recently?
- Safety: Are their licenses, insurance, and safety procedures up to date?
- Process: Do they have a clear step-by-step commercial construction process they can follow? How do they ensure proper project management?
- Quote: Does their quote include transparent pricing, a realistic timeline, and a plan in case things go wrong?
Looking for a Commercial Construction Contractor in Kamloops?
If you are planning a commercial renovation, tenant improvement, or build-out in Kamloops or the surrounding area, Interior Elite Contracting is here to help! Schedule your first consultation or site visit today for more information!
