Many commercial building companies are turning to tilt-up construction as their preferred method for producing high-quality and cost-effective builds. If you are considering precast concrete for your next building project, then the tilt-up construction method may be the most suitable choice.

Today we look at some of the common questions around this innovative construction method, and provide answers to help educate you on the most important points of tilt-up construction.

What is Tilt-Up construction?

A tilt-up building’s walls are formed by pouring concrete into horizontal floor slabs to make concrete panels. These precast concrete panels are then tilted into place using cranes to form the building’s walls- hence the name ‘tilt-up’.

Is tilt-up efficient?

The method has proven to be extremely efficient. Other traditional forms of building such as using CMU blocks require many different stages and a good deal of labour.

Commercial construction companies that use tilt-up do not require as much labour, which results in savings and greater return on investment. The process is also extremely rapid when compared to traditional building techniques, as many of the traditional stages of construction are compressed.

What are the main steps when undertaking a tilt-up project?

The main stages of construction are:

• Site evaluation and pre-planning
• Engineering
• Preparation of the precast concrete panel forms
• Casting of the tilt panels
• Tilting of concrete panels into place

What type of building projects is the method suitable for?

The method lends itself to a variety of projects and can be used across showroom, office, warehouse and factory construction.

What site considerations are there?

According to the Tilt-up Concrete Association, site evaluation should include planning for storage of materials, moving of equipment, pouring schedules and panel erection sequences.

A flat site with open space is considered to be the ideal conditions for a build; however these ideal conditions are uncommon.  The commercial building company that you engage should provide a thorough site evaluation, identifying any risks and making provisions for any site constraints.

For further resources, the Tilt up Concrete Association website provides both general and technical information on the tilt-up construction method.

What are some of the chief reasons to choose tilt-up?

Savings in construction costs and rapid project completion

Less required labour coupled with a straightforward construction process and locally sourced materials results in a cost-effective finished build.

High-quality and durability

The technique results in a highly durable concrete structure that is of the highest quality.

Aesthetics

The technique can be adapted to meet the client’s requirements, in order to create an attractive finished building. There a many finishes available such as varied wall texture, shapes and colours to create a sleek build that is aesthetically pleasing.

Rapid Tilt construction is a Perth commercial builder, with many years of dedicated experience in precast concrete and the tilt-up construction technique. For a discussion around your next commercial building project, call Adam and his team on 08 9248 5272.

Concrete is used for a variety of building projects, but what is the reason for its popularity?

When you plan your commercial build, you need to be sure that you are utilising the best materials to ensure a strong, durable and well-built structure that will stand the test of time.

Concrete is far from a modern invention, with the Egyptians credited as being the first major users of concrete in 2,500 BC.

According to the Cement Concrete & Aggregates Australia (CCAA) website, concrete is the most widely used construction material in Australia, with a great flexibility that can be adapted to suit varied projects. For example, concrete is the material of choice for a variety of commercial building projects such as office buildings, while it is also used for infrastructure projects and residential building projects.

Concrete provides a number of pragmatic benefits and here we examine them to see why concrete is used so widely.

Durable

Concrete has a long life span, of roughly 100 years. Not only this, the strength of concrete actually increases with age.

This incredible strength means that concrete buildings are extremely durable and do not require much costly maintenance.

The durability and strength of a concrete structure ensures a fit for purpose building that is safe and secure, and offers resistance to break-ins.

Concrete also provides resistance to events such as extreme temperatures, pest or fungal attacks.

Aesthetics and ease of design

Using appropriate formwork, concrete can be used to suit any design and shape to create attractive and aesthetically pleasing finished builds.

There are many different types of finishes that can be used on a concrete building’s exterior walls to create the effect you want.

Fire resistant

Concrete provides additional safety benefits. It is a non-combustible material, making concrete naturally fire resistant.

Due to its natural fire resistant properties, concrete structures minimise fire risk for the lowest possible cost, while not requiring ongoing maintenance.

Safe

Concrete does not emit harmful gases or fumes, and results in a highly safe finished build.

Economical

Concrete has relatively low manufacturing costs, which means a relatively low purchase price compared with other building materials.

Concrete is also readily available is most areas, eliminating expensive transport costs.

The low maintenance needs of a concrete structure also result in a building that has a low cost life-cycle.

Precast- Tilt-Up Concrete Construction

The tilt-up construction method allows for more rapid project completion than traditional construction , as precast concrete tilt panels are formed and tilted into place. The method is highly efficient while also being cost effective and of a high quality.

Speed

Working with a builder who specialised in precast concrete construction means that a project can be completed rapidly, to an extremely high quality while remaining at a minimum cost.

Sustainable benefits of concrete

At the end of a concrete structures long life-cycle, it can be crushed and the material used for other projects, such as aggregate for roads.

The benefits of concrete are long standing and proven.

When considering your next commercial build, it is wise to talk with a commercial builder who specialises in concrete construction. They will be able to create an economical, durable and strong building which will provide you with a sound investment that is fit for purpose and aesthetically pleasing.

For further information or to discuss your next commercial building project, please call Adam on (08) 9248 5272.

Have you been considering a move to a new business premises, but are unsure of whether now is the right time to do so?

An article from Real Commercial discusses some of the signs that may indicate a move is in your business’ best interests.

Staff overcrowding

If you find that fitting in another employee to your business space is creating a serious problem, then your business may have outgrown its current commercial building.

Employees that are made to work in uncomfortable conditions will unsurprisingly find performing to their maximum potential quite difficult.

A cramped work environment also causes occupational health and safety issues for all staff members, while raising an additional business concern for employers- one which is vital to be addressed immediately.

The surrounding infrastructure and environment has changed for the worse

Your commercial property is important, but another vital factor may be your current premises’ surrounding environment.

If your business is reliant on its location to a busy road, a business hub or proximity to a target demographic than a change in these factors will most likely affect your business’ performance.

For example if other businesses begin to move away from the area, a new road is built which moves traffic from your doorstep or local population drops in the area, then it could be prudent to begin searching for a more promising commercial building.

Productivity and output are affected

Following on from the above point, when productivity and output are affected, then researching your options for a more suitable space is advisable.

This may be a sign that your current building is no longer fit for purpose.

If your business is operationally dependent on a well laid-out floor space, with room for the necessary business activity then a fit for purpose building is the highest priority for maintaining profit.

The article in Real Commercial suggests that if your business begins to lose out on tenders or orders then it is important to consider the impact your workspace is having on your business’ ability to produce orders in both a timely and competitive manner.

Audit your workspace requirements

For such businesses that are reliant on work space for productivity, it is important to take stock of how much space you need, as opposed to how much space you currently occupy.

At this stage, it may be useful to consult professionals in the industry to help you analyse your current commercial building space, such as talking with fit-out specialists who are knowledgeable in your industry’s requirements.

You should next analyse your future requirements, taking into account past business patterns and analysing workflow to make an accurate prediction of future output needs.

Before considering a move, analyse your current commercial premises

Is your current business leasing the most financially viable option for your business, or would buying a property be more financially beneficial?

Contact a financial advisor or accountant and determine the rental repayments compared with loan repayments.

The benefits of owning your own property are attractive. Interest can be claimed on the loan, while another attractive option (where applicable) is purchasing a property through an SMSF and leasing the property back to the company.

Certainly, if you are considering an expensive fit-out of the space you are currently rental property in order to bring the space up to scratch, then investigating your options to buy is a wise idea.

Once in place as an owner occupier, any money you put into the building is a direct investment back into your own business.

Finding a Fit for Purpose building

The space you occupy can determine your business’ continued success. Research your options thoroughly and take measured steps when deciding on a new premises that is fit for purpose and optimises productivity.

For further information please contact Adam at RapidTilt on (08) 9248 5272.

There are a myriad of reasons why people dream of building their own commercial property- whether it be a business owner, who needs a customised building for optimum productivity, or an individual who wants to develop a property for investment purposes.

However there are a lot of myths about constructing property, some of which can be discouraging. Have you been thinking of pursuing a commercial construction project in 2015 but have been put-off, thinking that it may be too time consuming, too expensive or just too hard?

We take a look at some of the common misconceptions associated with building, and offer some perspectives to help bust these myths.

Myth #1- There will always be hidden costs when building

Many people fear that the overall cost of their project will be increased by unscrupulous builders who tack on hidden extras, quickly driving up the price.

A dedicated and honest builder understands that professional integrity is of the utmost importance. Such builders will work to an agreed upon budget without the nasty surprise of hidden costs.

Choose a builder who will work with you to understand your project requirements and your overall budget. Reputable builders will ensure that there is a building contract in place, that has an agreed upon budget and will stick to this fixed budget.

Myth #2- Variations mean that your builder is ripping you off

Variations are changes to the original contracted work, which involve either an addition or reduction in the scope or value of work. Many people fear these variations, in the belief that their builder is attempting to rip them off.

During a building project, certain adjustments may be needed which in turn may change costs. For example the client may seek a change of materials or structural changes to the build which could increase costs.

The reality is that if a variation is needed, a reputable builder will fully discuss the situation with you, making you aware of the effects the variation will have on the project such as to the cost and the timeline for completion.

Before work recommences, a trustworthy builder will ensure that any variations are fully agreed upon and understood by the client, put in writing and signed by both the builder and the client.

A professional builder will only change costs in situations where it is absolutely necessary.

Myth #3- Reputable and affordable builders are too hard to find

One viewpoint which seems to pervade many people’s beliefs is that it is overly hard to find a reputable builder.

Not all builders are created equal! However there are excellent builders who can deliver an affordable and top quality finished building.

The only way to ensure that you are enlisting the work of a decent builder is to put in the leg work and research your builder.

Do your due diligence- check the reputation of your builder

As with the previous point, it is important to do your research and find a builder who adheres to a strict agreement around pricing.

When you put in the work and find a dedicated building team, your project will run in safe hands.  Follow advice on how to find a trusted builder in our past article, for some hints and tips to help you make a confident decision.

Myth #4- Building is too expensive and time consuming

This is a fallacy, as there are methods of construction available that allow for a high quality build which can be completed in the minimum time and at an affordable cost.

The Tilt-Up Method

The Tilt Up method of construction is an example of a highly cost effective construction technique, which is widely used for commercial projects.

The technique is especially suited to commercial, industrial, retail, mining and manufacturing projects. It can be used to construct both small to large buildings very quickly, using precast concrete panels which are then tilted into position. Concrete is a highly durable material resulting in a building that can not only be completed rapidly, but made to an extremely high quality.

Other benefits to your build

Additionally, a newly built property is more durable and low-maintenance which may result in overall savings.

A dedicated and efficient building team will bust the above myths, and ensure that your commercial building project is hassle free and successful.

If you would like any further information or to discuss your commercial construction project, please contact Adam on 08 9248 5272.

A high-quality finished build is the product of work carried out by a skilled, efficient and committed builder.

Embarking on a construction project is an exciting journey but it is also an important investment, one that involves time, money, planning and effort.

Protect your investment by choosing a builder who can deliver what they promise, ensuring that all your time, effort and money are not wasted.

The signs of a reliable building professional

Look for references!

Word of mouth references from past customers is one of the most reliable ways to gauge a builder. A competent and established builder will have plenty of references from happy customers. If a builder cannot provide references, this may point to lack of experience or an unhappy client base.

It is advisable to talk to about 3 past clients before choosing a builder. Some important questions to ask include:

• Did the project run smoothly? If not, what hindered it?
• Did the builder communicate well?
• Were the costings accurate? If the project went over budget, in what area did it run over and why?
• Did the project run on schedule?
• Was the finished build of a high quality? Have there been any problems with the build since it has been occupied?

Honest and accurate quotes

An honest builder will scope a job properly in order to provide you with an accurate quotation. Beware of the builder who delivers a cheap quote that seems too good to be true- this may be an indication that they have neglected to include costs or that inferior quality materials may be used, ultimately resulting in an inferior quality build.

Building is a process which requires much planning to successfully navigate the different stages of construction. A reputable builder will stick to the agreed upon budget and will consult with you before making any decisions that may affect the final costs.

There are certainly unforeseen events which can delay even the most prepared building team, such as bad weather conditions or a shortage of materials; however, if additional costs and delays consistently occur this is an indication of a dishonest builder.

A good builder is above board

A builder must be registered, with the relevant licences to carry out the promised work.

In WA, the Building Commission ensures that a builder has the proper skills, experience and financial capacity to deliver high quality building services.

Prior to engaging a builder you should check the Building Commission website, to establish whether they are appropriately registered to carry out building work.

A reputable builder will ask for a reasonable deposit, which should be limited to the builder’s initial costs. The building contract should include a payment schedule; this will usually be set out as a staggered-payment schedule to meet various phases of work. They will also have insurance, in the case that something happens during the project.

Professional conduct

An experienced and reliable builder will carry out work with the utmost professionalism.

A professional builder will also communicate effectively and honestly with you throughout every stage of the building process, keeping you up-to-date with developments and aware of the progress being made.

Choosing the right builder for your project relies on you doing the proper research, to find an efficient and committed professional who will deliver a high-quality finished build.

If you would like to discuss your next commercial building project, contact Adam at RapidTilt on 08 9248 5272.

Are you interested in building your own commercial property or investing in commercial real estate?

When looking into buying commercial property, there is a wealth of information available from many different sources- so much so, that it may seem a bit overwhelming as you try to sort out the fact from the fiction.

Investing in commercial property does not have to be complicated; in fact it is relatively straightforward, once you have the right information and resources.

To help you on your way, we have put together a list of the steps and the resources to help you to get the right information from the outset.

Planning and finances

When you set out on your journey to buying commercial property, the first step will be to examine your financial situation.

This article from realestate.com.au suggests some simple steps to achieve sound financial organisation and planning, by listing your assets, having an accurate understanding of your financial situation and seeking pre-approval for your loan.

Although this may seem basic, the article also points out that maintaining control of your finances through careful budgeting is a highly important skill to cultivate.  Failing to monitor your incomings and outgoings can quickly spell disaster.

If you need to set a budget, the ASIC website has some excellent and easy-to-use budgeting tools to get you on your way.

Buying through your SMSF

Purchasing a commercial property through your Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) can be a great option, if applicable to your situation.

If you are interested in exploring this option, the ASIC website offers comprehensive information around this.

Research the market

Tools for researching the commercial property market can be found online. Realestate.com.au, a website which provides commercial real estate listings and information in Australia has this tool which allows you to search areas for property investment potential.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics website allows you to search areas by demographics, which provides a good deal of information about the people living in a particular area. If you have an ideal target demographic for your commercial property development then this information can prove to be very useful.

Growing your business

The WA government website has some information and advice for businesses that are thinking of buying their own commercial premises.

Stay informed!

It helps to stay abreast of the market by reading up-to-date and relevant trade news. Realcommercial.com.au, which offers commercial property listings, also has regular blog posts on the commercial property market.

CoreLogic RP Data provides data analytics and news stories on the property market. The Australian Business Review property section provides breaking news on the Australian property market.

Buying commercial property offers great potential for the investor, and doing the right research can make the process interesting, exciting and lucrative. Happy researching!

If you would like to discuss your commercial building options, call Adam at Rapid Tilt on 08 9248 5272.

At RapidTilt we are often asked about the process and the benefits of using the tilt-up concrete method of construction.

The tilt-up construction method is highly innovative, yet in its earliest form it has been used for well-over a century, according to the Tilt-Up Concrete Association (TCA).

Since its beginning the tilt-up process has been refined to ensure that it is strong, durable, cost-effective and time-effective, all of which contribute to its popularity as a preferred method of construction in many countries.

What is Tilt-Up construction?

Tilt-up concrete construction employs an innovative method of building. During a project, the walls of the building are poured horizontally on large concrete slabs, called tilt-up wall panels. This work is done on-site, maximising build efficiency and speed.

The next stage is where tilt-up gets its name; the walls are then tilted into their final position using high capacity cranes, creating the exterior walls.

 What are the benefits?

With features of value, speed, and longevity the tilt-up method is meeting the  demand for affordable and high-quality builds.

An interesting article from the TCA explores the benefits of this method in great  depth.

Savings- Tilt-up is a low-cost method of construction, which offers fantastic saving opportunities to any property developer. The efficient technique results in a reduced need for labour and equipment, while the overall quality and flexibility of the build makes it a highly attractive option.

Durable material- Tilt-up utilises concrete, an incredibly durable material which actually continues to gain strength over time and is also fire resistant. Concrete surfaces are also resistant to damage and can be easily maintained. Tilt-up panels are highly secure and offer excellent benefits for the safety of your property.

Speed of delivery- One of the greatest benefits of tilt-up concrete construction is the speed of project completion. The on-site construction of the wall panels results in time saving benefits. This method allows for the compression of certain stages of construction, with many phases completed simultaneously.

The project time-frame can be accurately scheduled and the technique allows for delivery that is on time.

Design Flexibility- The tilt-up method allows for excellent design flexibility, with modern techniques making it suitable for various projects. The overall finish and aesthetics can be customised to create an attractive finished build.

Safety- The majority of work is done on the ground, in a stable environment which reduces the risk of accidents for the construction team.

As a modern, economical and efficient construction technique, tilt-up passes on many benefits to both the owner and building team, accounting for its growing use and making it the preferred method of construction for many projects.

Additional information and resources around tilt-up construction are available on the Tilt-Up Concrete Association website or contact us at RapidTilt for professional advice.

A business is constantly adapting, and as your business becomes established and grows you may find that your current premises no longer meets requirements, leaving little option other than to relocate.

When this situation arises, many business owners find themselves considering what is the best option- to lease or to buy? In this article we will look at some of the positives and the negatives around leasing or buying a commercial property, to help you make an informed and confident decision.

Before making any decision around whether to buy, it is prudent to get professional advice. You should speak to trusted legal and financial advisors who can help to answer questions you may have, such as:

• Am I well positioned to buy?
• How much capital can I afford to access?
• Will property ownership fit in with my long-term business goals?
• What is the long-range effect of the decision?
• Can I buy property through my Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF)?
• Does the proposed business structure provide sufficient asset protection?
• Is the proposed business structure tax effective?
• What are the tax benefits?

It is important for the business owner to carefully weigh up the advice given, to decide on what option will best suit their business’ needs.

Overview- Positives of Buying

• Potential capital growth
• Control over property and business planning, option to renovate
• Option to lease out excess space
• A fixed loan can provide fixed costs
• Tax benefits, tax deductions for interest & depreciation
• Benefits if purchased through SMSF
• Can access equity

Overview- Negatives of Buying                                                 

• Potential capital loss
• Lack of flexibility
• Substantial capital outlay required
• Responsible for maintenance & renovations
• May be liable for land tax

Overview – Positives of Leasing

• Ability to access more capital not invested in property
• Flexibility to relocate – subject to terms of lease but not tied to property
• Wider selection of appropriate properties
• Quicker time frame to move in
• Less risk of liability for property improvements and structural repairs

Overview- Negatives of Leasing

• Potential variation in rent, rent increases
• Limited control of property–renovations and improvement may be disallowed
• Lack of equity
• Lease may impose conditions for regular maintenance
• May be required to contribute toward outgoings
• May be required to relocate when lease expires

Case Study- Buying Vs Renting 

Brian and Sarah required a new business premises as their business had outgrown their current space,and their business required a bigger work space work to continue to remain at maximum productivity.

They worked out a long-term business plan and determined that they required a building space of about 1,000m² plus additional land for a car park.

They had a look at the rental market, and found that it would cost roughly $120 per square metre, costing them about $120,000 per year to lease a 1,000m² space.

Weighing up their options carefully, they decided to build.

They found a suitable 2,000m² block of land at a cost of $500,000. They built a modern and functional premises, which occupied 1,000m² and with the remaining space built a car park, with adequate room for both client and staff parking. This cost $730,000, making their overall investment $1,230,000.

They had secured finance for 80% of the total amount, and fixed it for 2 years at 5.56% and paid interest of $54,710 per annum.

Choosing to build rather than lease resulted in a saving of $65,290 per year because they chose to purchase over leasing the building. They also had the freedom to customise the building to suit their needs exactly, and they also have the added benefit of selling on or leasing out the property as a source of income if they choose to in the future.

Customise and grow- Building your commercial premises

Considering both options above, it is clear that a company that has sufficient capital and a well-developed business plan may do very well in opting to buy.

Many businesses seek a greater level of customisation, which a tailored build can offer them. Choosing to build a commercial property to use as an owner occupied premises can provide excellent potential for long-term planning and growth.

Freedom to plan and grow

The freedom to plan long-term business development which your own build can afford is often the biggest deciding factor in any business owner’s decision to build.

The flexibility of building your own property is very attractive to business owners that may want a customised property, to ensure productivity and work efficiency.

Build your brand!

Your business premises is a direct reflection of what your company stands for.  The design and presentation of your premises should show both current and potential clients a professional and modern company that they are confident to engage.

Building a new premises or improving an existing building is a strong reinforcement of your brand, which ensures that you are remembered by clients and prospects.

Design & functionality

Modern design can help your business progress to a higher level of efficiency and productivity. A built-for-purpose commercial property can be designed to exact specifications, while offering the freedom to renovate as needed.

Working with builders who are experienced in building functionality can ensure that your build is optimised for efficient work flow and business success.

Provisions can also be made for business growth as a build can be tailored to allow for future business expansion.

Financial benefits

Depending on individual circumstances there are many other ways to financially benefit in building, including purchasing the investment through a SMSF.

Buying business property through a SMSF is becoming increasingly popular, although this should be pursued after seeking professional advice.

Mortgage repayments on a property can often prove to be more economical than leasing, while a fixed mortgage in turn offers your business fixed costs that are not subject to the cost variations associated with leasing.

Additionally, there are tax benefits to owning commercial property. You may be eligible to claim a credit for the GST included in the purchase price. It is also possible to claim income tax deductions for ownership and maintenance expenses, such as depreciation and loan interest, and also to claim a credit for the GST included in maintenance and running costs.

The capital growth associated with commercial property investment is another significant advantage to building, as property acts a long-term form of wealth creation. An attractive property should offer long-term capital appreciation and positive return on investment in the case that you may want to sell-on or lease the building out.

Choosing to build can offer your business greater freedom and the opportunity for development. An established business that is committed to building their brand and efficiency can do so by investing in a modern build that is optimised for functionality.

If you are interested in pursuing a commercial build contact RapidTilt construction. We can guide you through the entire process starting from the concept and planning stage, through to delivering a high-quality build that is within your budget, without the hassle of spiralling costs and time frame.

Now is an opportune time to invest in a commercial property, with many people understandably interested in taking advantage of low interest rates and the weak Australian dollar.

But when making a decision to invest in a commercial property, you may find it hard to choose whether to buy or to build. To determine which option is right for you, you must first have a clear and accurate plan of what exactly it is that you want from the property.

Whether you are a business owner who needs a fit for purpose building, or a property developer looking for a sound investment, it is imperative to research and understand your options.

By looking closely at the positives and negatives of building a commercial property versus buying, you can make an informed and confident decision around which option is right for you.

What do you need?

What is it that you need- do you have specific requirements? If you are flexible in terms of you want from your commercial property, then choosing an established build may be an option.

Buying an established building however has a very significant drawback, as you will most likely have to compromise your requirements to adapt to what is available on the property market.

Building has a notable advantage, as you can design and customise your build to exactly suit your specific requirements.

For business owners who are planning to use the property as their commercial premises, this can be a long term investment for their business. Opting to build means an efficient and built for purpose property which will suit the business’ needs and encourage productivity.

Cost and timing

When considering a commercial property, cost and timing are two important factors which will influence whether to build or to buy.

Buying an existing commercial property comes with a variety of additional expenses such as appraisal costs, legal fees, surveying costs and fit-out fees to make the building ready to move in to.

Building a commercial property allows for far greater flexibility and means that you can avoid costly renovations and improvements which may be necessary to convert an established building to something more align with what you want.

In terms of planning and effort, buying established may appear to be the quicker and easier option.

There are many stages to a new build, however if you choose the correct builder, they can project manage and coordinate the building process to ensure it runs efficiently and within budget.

Many people fear construction delays and the spiralling costs associated with an increased waiting time for construction completion.

However a build does not have to be a lengthy and costly process. A reputable builder can work with you, to design a building which meets your budget requirements in a time-frame that will suit your needs.

The budget and time-frame can also be agreed upon from the project outset, so that the risk of project blow out is eliminated. An efficient builder will deliver a building that is on time and on budget.

Quality

Established builds may present a problem in terms of quality, as older properties can often require renovations and have often succumbed to wear and tear. The general upkeep can also be significantly higher than in new builds.

New commercial properties are often built to a higher standard using better materials, and are also more energy efficient.

When weighing up the benefits and negatives of building versus buying, the odds are in favour of building a commercial property. Why choose to compromise what you want from your build? By opting to build a commercial property to your specifications with a reputable construction team, you are in control of your investment.

RapidTilt are involved in every stage of the construction process. We work with our clients throughout every stage of the construction process from concept development, architectural and engineering planning, and council approval through to the finalised construction.

We are skilled project managers with an assembled team of craftsmen dedicated to producing builds of the highest quality, that are both on time and on budget.

Building a commercial property is a dream venture for many people, offering an excellent opportunity for:

1. An additional income with a rental property
2. The sale of a completed commercial property
3. A purpose built building specific for their business
4. A long term retirement investment

The continuing low interest rates and weak Australian dollar show that now is an opportune time to invest. In fact, commercial property development is continuing to flourish in Australia, with figures published by Ai Group showing an expansion in new commercial developments in August 2014.

There are many people pursuing the dream of a lucrative commercial development. However, getting what you expect at the end of a build is not always guaranteed. Why is it that some people are dissatisfied with their finished build?

Stories abound of developers who have experienced budget blow-outs, work that spirals past the intended date of completion, project mismanagement, shoddy workmanship from the building contractor or other unforseen complications, that ultimately turn their dream build into a nightmare.

But why does this occur? These building nightmares are well publicised and something that people may see as a potential risk factor when undertaking a construction project.

This however does not have to be the case. By following some simple but important steps, out of control projects and disappointing finished builds can happily be ruled out.

So how can you avoid being disappointed with your build?

When done correctly a commercial build is an incredible investment, especially when purchased through your SMSF (seek professional advice on this).

However, people may find that their construction project has left them disappointed.

But what are the steps to building a property that will repay the hard work and effort you put in?

Beware of cowboy builders!

Before choosing a builder, do your research. Reputation is king- pick a builder with a long standing reputation for creating high quality builds.

The greatest indication of whether a builder delivers exceptional quality is in their completed work, so if possible speak to past clients to find out their experience and look at previous work done by the builder.

Check online and see if they have a well-established online presence, which shows past projects and client testimonials.

You can also check whether the builder is registered with the Building Commission.

By doing the necessary research, you can get a better understanding for whether the builder would be a good fit for your project.

Concept and design

What do you need from your build? Careful concept planning and informed design will determine whether the finished build meets your expectations.

Be realistic and balance your expectations with your limitations. In the concept stage, work with a builder who understands your needs and will meet your requirements in terms of both design and cost.

Project planning

Project planning is the key to any smoothly run build, which will simultaneously minimise the risk of any unexpected surprises.

Your builder should work with you to implement an effective project plan, which clearly outlines the schedule of works, the time-frame for completion, the resources needed and the overall project cost.

Communication and management

An efficient and experienced builder will be skilled in project management and will coordinate the various stages of the build, while effectively communicating with the various stakeholders involved in the project.

Agree to a timeline for completion

A well-planned and realistic time-frame is imperative to work being done efficiently.

Your builder should create an accurate and realistic project schedule that will allow for completion of work on time. Stay informed of project progression by communicating with your builder and receiving regular updates.

Stick to your budget

Many people think this is easier said than done. People are frequently disappointed by spiralling costs, which greatly reduce their return on investment.

This is often due to inaccurate or underestimated costs, which can skew the project from the outset. However, by working with a builder who can not only meet the client’s budget, but also deliver a high quality build, the dangers of a budget blow-out are removed.

An experienced and trustworthy builder will advise on realistic costs and prevent your project costs from ballooning.

To avoid the pitfalls of a disappointing finished build, follow these steps and make your commercial development project a success.

At Rapid Tilt, we employ our tilt-up construction technique, a method that is unmatched in terms of quality and speed of build. This is combined with dedicated project management, to ensure our work is done on time, on budget and to the highest standard.

Our pride in work and commitment to the highest quality builds ensures that we not only meet, but exceed, our clients’ expectations.