Building a restaurant is exciting, and looking into the future can bring the hope of success. However, there is a lot of work to be done even before construction begins. For restaurant builders, this stage is for extensive planning and communicating with the right parties. If the pre-construction process is handled correctly, the actual building phase will go much more smoothly and according to schedule, as well as on budget.

Develop Plans

At this stage, planning is crucial. Make a list that names key players in the process. This may include:

• Subcontractors
• Vendors
• Stakeholders
• Owners

To help the project stay on schedule, outline a realistic construction timeline. Define a plan that details tasks, completion dates, and issues that may potentially cause delays. Identify short and long lead items as well as building milestones. Plan for material staging, roof penetration, and wall blocking. Contact the vendors and create a delivery schedule for project needs.

Constructing any commercial property comes with risks, so it is important to outline a plan for risk management. Identify any potential issue that may crop up regarding design, schedule, placement, or planning. You can then make a plan of attack in the event any of these occur and outline alternative strategies. This is where communication with others is crucial, as experienced professionals can point out areas of concern or weakness.

Set Budgets

Budget is always a concern when it comes to restaurant construction, but if you do some background work at the pre-construction stage, you have a much better chance of staying at or under budget. Get preliminary cost estimates and review them. Go over the list with the contractor who is better qualified to judge whether it is a realistic budget and where adjustments may be needed.

Secure Permits

Any commercial project requires a variety of permits such as for zoning, signs, general construction, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical. Obtaining a permit requires an application, review, and associated fees. Applying for permits should be a priority, as this can be a timely process.

In addition to building permits, restaurant owners will need to apply for additional permits and licenses before being allowed to open their doors to the public. These may include:

• Business license
• Liquor license
• Health permit
• Resale permit
• Food handler’s permit
• Food service license
• Music license

Schedule Meetings with Vital Parties

Based on the list of key players, schedule meetings so there is clear communication and everyone is on the same page. Distribute project plans to owners and stakeholders and review all project expectations. Go over safety plans as well as risk management strategies. Make sure everyone on the project team has the vendor delivery schedule and all necessary documents.

Make Sure Everything is Ready to Proceed

As construction looms near, it is important to make sure everything is ready to go in a timely manner. Confirm the plans for framing and underground plumbing as well as for all the utility locations. Make sure every element will fit and confirm the contract plans. Document and photograph the conditions of the building site before construction begins.

Double check that all permits are secured and posted. All building materials and subcontractors should be ready to take action up to 10 days before the construction process starts. Once everything is in place, you can smoothly move on to the next step of the project.

Hire a Professional Construction Contractor

One of the most important steps in the pre-construction phase is to hire a professional contractor. Tech 24 Construction is made up of a team of professionals who have years of experience building restaurants and other commercial structures. With the company’s advice and consulting skills, restaurant builders can rest assured their project will be completed without a hitch when the right planning is involved. Contact us today to find out how they can help.