R.M. Koemans FAQ’s
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the permitting process take?
The length of the permitting process can vary depending on several factors, including the location of the project, the complexity of the build, and local government requirements. On average, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. For more complex projects or in areas with strict regulations, the permitting process could take longer. It’s best to start the permitting process early to avoid delays in your construction timeline.
How does the permitting process work?
The permitting process generally involves several key steps:
Application Submission: The process starts with submitting a detailed application to the local building department or relevant governing authority. This application typically includes architectural plans, engineering drawings, site plans, and other project-specific documents.
Review and Examination: Once the application is submitted, it undergoes a thorough review by various departments within the local government, such as planning, building safety, fire prevention, and environmental health. Each department checks the plans to ensure they comply with applicable codes and regulations.
Corrections and Revisions: If any issues or discrepancies are identified during the review, the applicant will be notified and required to make necessary corrections or revisions to the plans. This may involve submitting updated documents or providing additional information.
Permit Issuance: After all departments have approved the plans and confirmed compliance with all regulations, the building permit is issued. This permit authorizes the start of construction.
Inspections: Throughout the construction process, periodic inspections are conducted by local building officials to ensure the work is being performed according to the approved plans and codes. These inspections are required at various stages, such as foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, and final completion.
Final Approval: Upon successful completion of all inspections and confirmation of compliance with all requirements, a final approval or certificate of occupancy is issued, allowing the building to be occupied or used.
How do you manage schedules?
Our approach to schedule management is comprehensive and proactive, beginning with the initial project planning phase where we leverage the robust capabilities of Procore. This platform allows us to meticulously develop a detailed project schedule, outlining all key milestones, tasks, and dependencies from groundbreaking to final completion. The collaborative nature of Procore ensures that all stakeholders have visibility into the timeline and can contribute to its accuracy.
The responsibility for maintaining and adhering to the project schedule is shared across our leadership team. Our Owner provides overall strategic direction and oversight, ensuring that the project aligns with the overarching goals and timelines. The Director of Construction plays a crucial role in the practical implementation of the schedule, overseeing site operations and ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to meet deadlines. The Project Manager serves as the central point of contact for all scheduling-related matters, actively monitoring progress, identifying potential roadblocks, and proactively communicating updates to all relevant parties, including clients, subcontractors, and internal teams.
Through regular meetings, detailed progress tracking within Procore, and consistent communication, we foster a culture of accountability and ensure that everyone involved is aware of their responsibilities and the project’s current status. We believe that this multi-layered approach, supported by industry-leading technology and a dedicated team, is essential for keeping projects on track and delivering successful outcomes for our clients. Our commitment is to proactively manage the schedule, anticipate potential challenges, and implement solutions swiftly to mitigate any delays, ultimately ensuring a smooth and timely project completion.
How do you manage budgets?
We utilize a construction management software named Procore to create and maintain budgets. We operate using a cost plus structure.
Do you provide design services?
No, we do not directly provide design services. However, we work closely with architects and designers to bring your project vision to life. We can recommend reputable design partners we’ve collaborated with in the past.
How do you pick your trade partners?
Trade partners are selected based on several key criteria to ensure quality and reliability. We prioritize partners who have a proven track record of high-quality workmanship, a commitment to meeting project deadlines, and a strong understanding of our project specifications. We look for established businesses with valid licenses, insurance, and a history of positive client feedback. Additionally, we prefer partners who share our values of integrity, professionalism, and collaboration. Ongoing relationships are built on mutual respect and trust, fostered through consistent communication and performance.