A day in the office is often full of many activities. Some workers are welcoming clients, while others are toiling their hours balancing accounting books, preparing reports, and brainstorming for the next big company project. Having possible distractions can negatively impact the work of your team members. Hence, in most
ERP systems are widely used in all sorts of industries today, and yet it’s easy to misunderstand their function or misinterpret their benefits if you’ve never encountered one yourself. To bring you onboard with all that this type of platform has to offer, stick around as we talk you through
Whether you’re running a startup business or planning to move to a different office, there are many options for your office space. You should prioritize your employees and business needs when looking for the best working environment. After all, this can make or break overall productivity and performance. Some entrepreneurs
Commercial metal usage continues to grow due to demand for a wide range of commercial applications. A metal supply company is needed for commercial construction, air conditioner systems, power lines, and much more. However, each project may require a different type of metal. Here are seven of the most used
Renovating a home can be an exciting but overwhelming prospect. From figuring out which renovations to prioritize to understanding the latest trends and design materials, there are so many factors that go into the decision-making process. Whether you’re looking for minor updates or more extensive renovation projects, knowing what to
Remortgaging is the process of switching to a new mortgage provider or renegotiating the terms of your existing mortgage with your current lender. You can do this to secure a lower interest rate or to access property equity, which is the difference between the value of the property and the
Global construction companies face a unique challenge: how to manage their operations and projects in the most cost-effective way while still delivering high-quality results. Outsourcing is one way that businesses are tackling this challenge. It can offer access to skilled experts who may not be available locally, cost savings, improved
Running a construction business can be one of the promising ways to generate great profits. People are always looking for construction services, whether to construct a new property or renovate a current one. Therefore, there’s a constant demand for construction services, enabling you to connect with many potential customers. You’ll
If your snag list shows that there are defects in your new build home then it is the responsibility of the builder to rectify these errors prior to you taking occupancy. However, sometimes requests to perform maintenance or repairs fall on deaf ears. For many homeowners looking forward to their
Your new office will be the home for your company, and it will be the place that ultimately determines how successful your company will be. Therefore, designing office space that’s comfortable, welcoming, and boosts productivity is essential. A good working atmosphere can benefit your company’s efficiency, productivity, morale, and team
A day in the office is often full of many activities. Some workers are welcoming clients, while others are toiling their hours balancing accounting books, preparing reports, and brainstorming for the next big company project. Having possible distractions can negatively impact the work of your team members. Hence, in most cases, you’ll find most offices scheduling cleaning for the weekend to avoid any distractions. But if the need arises, you may need to perform office cleaning on a weekday in your workplace. This can be tough yet not totally impossible to carry out. Then, how do you conduct office cleaning on a weekday successfully? Here’s a guide to the process that can help you out: Plan Ahead Planning is a great way to execute projects successfully. It’s something you want to adopt as you clean your office on a weekday too. Start by picking a date or dates for the cleaning. It could be on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. The number of days needed for cleaning depends on the scope of work: the more the space to clean, the more weekdays to include. It’d also help to allocate timeframes of the day, like from 8AM to 10AM. The other aspect you need to carefully plan for is finances. Create a budget for the cleaning process. It should include money for buying cleaning tools and the labour you’ll use. Since the cleaning will take place during the week, it’s best to seek day porter services to help you with the cleaning. Keep Your Whole Team In The Loop It’s always important to keep your workers in the loop when you’re planning to do office cleaning on a weekday. In this case, inform your team of the weekday office cleaning. It’d help to remind them a week prior, as well as the day before. Doing so ensures they prepare themselves physically and psychologically. Additionally, it’d help to communicate the plan through a memo or a meeting so that no one is left uninformed. Communication is key to the success of your weekday cleaning – this can’t be stressed enough. Use The Right Cleaning Products There’s a wide range of cleaning products you can use. Each one is best utilized in certain situations. In this case, the situation is cleaning on a weekday. It means you have to buy products certified for office use. Additionally, go for products without strong scents because some workers might be allergic to strong smells. Office furniture comes in various materials. Some are wooden, while others are made from fabric. You can easily use water to clean the wood. But you want to avoid water to clean fabric furniture. Vacuuming is the ideal cleaning solution for fabric furniture. It’s important to consider the location you’re cleaning as well. Some spaces, such as the bathroom, require disinfectants. Meanwhile, the kitchen needs food-friendly cleaning products. Since it’s an office setting, there are pieces of electric equipment, like laptops, that need special cleaning tools. It’s because you can’t use water and soap on them. There are special cleaning products for them; ensure you buy them for proper use. Work In Sections This read has already established that cleaning the office on a weekday means workers are working. It’s best to clean the office in sections to maintain productivity. A cleaning schedule will come in handy. If time isn’t on your side, create a schedule throughout the week. You can arrange to clean bathrooms on Mondays, office floors on Wednesdays, and windows and doors on Fridays. Working in sections prevents distractions and ensures work productivity. Points To Note When Doing Office Cleaning On A Weekday The easiest way to manage office cleaning on a weekday is by being proactive and consistent. Do this by practicing proper waste management all the time. It’d help to segregate wastes, based on type, for proper disposal. Have a section for biodegradable, non-biodegradable, and recyclable ones. Sensitize your workers to these disposal techniques and their importance. Have your workers handle their trash responsibly. For instance, they shouldn’t throw waste on the office floor or their desks. The other thing to note is that office cleaning doesn’t only touch on the indoor space. It extends to the outdoor space, like the parking lot and compound. Having your immediate outdoor area clean presents a positive representation of your company to the public. Conclusion A clean office is essential in providing a good environment for workers to fulfil their responsibilities. With the need to ascertain this, you might require to clean the office on weekdays. The discussion above guides on ensuring the weekday-cleaning process is thorough and effective. Keep the tips featured in mind in order to successfully carry out office cleaning on a weekday. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
ERP systems are widely used in all sorts of industries today, and yet it’s easy to misunderstand their function or misinterpret their benefits if you’ve never encountered one yourself. To bring you onboard with all that this type of platform has to offer, stick around as we talk you through a few core concepts, and also discuss what it takes to select the perfect option for your organization. An Overview of ERP Systems and Their Benefits An ERP system is essentially software that helps manage your company’s daily operations by collecting data related to financials, inventory management, human resources management and customer relationship management in one centralized location. This empowers you with real-time insights into your company’s performance while helping streamline processes such as accounting tasks or sales order tracking. It also facilitates collaboration between departments within your organization which can help improve productivity and efficiency levels significantly over time. The cost savings associated with using an ERP system should not be overlooked either – from reduced overheads to enhanced scalability, you’ll be able to grow your business faster and more effectively. Finally, ERP systems are incredibly user friendly for non-tech personnel too – so don’t let the tech jargon intimidate you! By understanding how an ERP system can help streamline processes and increase efficiency within your organization, you’ll be better equipped to make a decision that best suits the needs of your business in terms of costs versus performance. Exploring Specialist ERP Solutions, e.g. for Installations You don’t have to settle for a generic system to oversee your business’ operations if you occupy a particular industry niche that has unique needs to address. For instance, with specialist services like OpusFlow you can enjoy ERP software for sustainable installations, delivering a platform that’s tailored to the particular requirements of companies that serve customers in this sphere. Of course in a market this vast, you might struggle to make a decision even if you are focused on specialist services, so next let’s look at how you can weigh up rival ERP tools and pick the best option available. How to Evaluate the Different ERP Systems for Your Company Evaluating an ERP system for your business can be a tricky process. With so many different providers, it’s important to know how to determine which one is the right choice for your company. Here are a few tips to help you make an informed decision: First, research different ERP systems and their features. Consider the size and type of business you have, and make sure the ERP system you choose offers the features and services you need. Second, review customer reviews. It’s important to get feedback from customers who’ve used the ERP system to get an accurate idea of how it works. Read customer reviews, both positive and negative, to get a better understanding of the system. Third, talk to the vendor. Ask questions about their product and services, as well as their customer support. This will give you a better idea of how well the system works, as well as how reliable the vendor is. Finally, consider your budget. Make sure the ERP system you choose fits within your financial capabilities. Don’t be afraid to negotiate with the vendor to get a better price. Wrapping Up Now that the secrets of ERP systems are known to you, it’s time to start your search for a suitable solution in earnest. Don’t be shy about testing out several platforms before you make a final choice, as this will give you a taste of what different vendors can bring to the table. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Whether you’re running a startup business or planning to move to a different office, there are many options for your office space. You should prioritize your employees and business needs when looking for the best working environment. After all, this can make or break overall productivity and performance. Some entrepreneurs feel stressed out when reviewing different possible office locations. They lack preparation and have yet to decide on important considerations. To prevent that and make the process seem less daunting, it’s ideal for learning tips and tricks for choosing the best office space for your business. Learn some benefits of shared office space and apply the following steps when looking for the best one: 1. Prioritize Location Everyone would tell you how important location is when choosing stores and offices. After all, this is where your employees would work daily, and customers or business partners would need to visit you. Choose a location that’s convenient and accessible for everyone. They should be able to come to your office without hassles and hurdles. There are primary considerations when deciding on the location. First, it should be in a safe and secure neighborhood. Check the nearby offices and see if it’s an ideal location for your business. It’s best to be located in a downtown or main area so your customers and employees can arrive quickly by using any transportation. Finally, when you find the right location, you can proceed with designing your new office place. 2. Set A Budget Businesses should set a budget to make good decisions for office spaces. An office space cost should be strategically planned. As well as affecting net income, the price determines how much reserve money your business can maintain. Setting a budget allows you to narrow your choices and see what facilities or locations you can afford. The price is a determining factor for the success of your operations. If the office space price or subsidy is too low, it can result in inadequate working conditions and substandard offices. However, overspending on your office space can also lead to adverse financial conditions. A high lease is never healthy for your cash flow, and you might continue to incur additional expenses in the long run. The key is to stay within the budget and ensure that the price is reasonable to meet your needs. If you have invested in a low cost franchise, however, you may have more of your budget to work with, as long as you do not get too excited about what you could do 3. Consider The Facilities If you’ve decided on shared office space, you should always think about the types of facilities you need. To ensure your business is successful, you should guarantee that your employees can maximize and use the available facilities. For instance, the office space should have excellent internet connectivity, comfortable workspaces, good lighting, a pantry, meeting cubicles, and other functions that contribute to your team member’s performance and well-being. It’s essential to research thoroughly and look for offices that meet your facility’s requirements. Your office may be storing valuable equipment overnight, so security is another critical consideration. You can also factor in their operations time, which should be relevant if you have different work shifts. Thus, if you are looking for a suitable space for your needs, there are several factors to consider for finding the right facilities alone. 4. Match It To Your Business Needs Choosing the suitable office space for your needs is vital, no matter what office you choose. Assess how much space and equipment each employee needs for comfortable work, and then determine how big an office you need based on those numbers. List down every facility and amenities your employees and business need. Even though having a larger space than necessary can be a good idea since it allows you to add employees, you risk paying for space you don’t need if your team doesn’t grow as quickly as expected. But it’s also crucial not to go for a small and cramped office as this can only affect performance and output. Growing businesses can choose short-term contracts to change office spaces as their teams expand and their needs change. 5. Factor In Your Company Size Finally, it’s essential to factor in your company size. Count your staff and see who needs to work in the office at a given time. The size of your premises should match the size of your business. If you don’t need a huge space, don’t overspend. But at the same time, you don’t want your employees to stay in a small area that’s too cramped. By knowing your office space requirements, you can avoid moving from one office to another, which is another expense you don’t need. You would be better off with a more extensive and flexible office space if you expand your company and hire more employees. Conclusion Any business needs to assess its office location with more consideration and preparation. The list of advice above can get you started on the right track. It’s important to keep your business and employees’ needs in mind before deciding on the best office location. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Commercial metal usage continues to grow due to demand for a wide range of commercial applications. A metal supply company is needed for commercial construction, air conditioner systems, power lines, and much more. However, each project may require a different type of metal. Here are seven of the most used metals for commercial applications. 1. Iron Iron is the most abundant metal. About 5% of the Earth’s crust is comprised of iron. Close to 90% of all refined metal is iron. Iron is typically combined with other elements to create new alloys, such as steel. It is often used to make alloy steels by combining iron with nickel, tungsten, manganese, vanadium, chromium, and other alloys. Iron is also used for wrought iron products. Common examples include wrought iron chains, nails, rivets, nuts, bolts, railings, and ornamental ironworks. 2. Steel Metal supply companies offer a large variety of steel products. Steel is one of the most used metals due to its strength. It is also available in over 3,500 different grades to suit different applications. Common types of steel include stainless steel, carbon steel, and alloy steel. Steel is used in the production of most vehicles, medical equipment, ships, and household appliances. Stainless steel is made from iron, chromium, and other alloys. It is resistant to corrosion, making it a common choice for metal parts that are exposed to water and moisture. 3. Aluminium Aluminium is another of the most used metals due to its unique characteristics. Aluminium is lightweight but durable and resistant to corrosion. It is a combination of other materials, including bauxite ore, silica, and iron oxide. Aluminium also offers great electrical conductivity, which makes it a common choice for power lines. It also conducts heat well and is often used in heatsinks and electrical components. It is also used to make cans, kitchen utensils, and window frames. 4. Zinc Zinc is a popular metal due to its low melting point. It melts quickly, which also makes it easy to recycle. It is a strong material that is most commonly used as a coating to protect other metals. For example, zinc may be used as a coating to shield steel from rust. Zinc has a thin, protective layer called the patina. The patina protects the surface of the metal from the air, which decreases the risk of corrosion. 5. Bronze Bronze was the first human-made alloy. It comes from a combination of copper and tin. As with many other popular types of metal, bronze is resistant to corrosion. It is also less likely to bend or crack and offers great electrical conductivity. Bronze is a common material for cabinet hardware and furniture trim. As it has less iron compared to many other popular metals, bronze does not rust. However, it can develop a patina due to its copper content. You may eventually notice a greenish appearance if bronze is frequently exposed to water. 6. Copper Copper is a relatively inexpensive metal compared to other options, which helps make it popular for a wide range of applications. It is an easy metal to work and is found in a variety of items, including pipes for plumbing, currency, and wiring. Copper has excellent electrical conductivity properties. It is a common choice for circuit boards, electrical wires, and electronic components. 7. Gold Gold is another good electrical conductor and is resistant to corrosion. However, the use of gold for the exchange of currencies makes it less cost-effective for most commercial applications. It is more commonly used to cover the surfaces of components in high-end products. For example, the connectors on stereo equipment may include gold plating on the ends for increased electrical conductivity. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Renovating a home can be an exciting but overwhelming prospect. From figuring out which renovations to prioritize to understanding the latest trends and design materials, there are so many factors that go into the decision-making process. Whether you’re looking for minor updates or more extensive renovation projects, knowing what to focus on during your project will ensure success in both budgeting and execution. In this blog post, we’ll explore key tips and insights about how to tackle a renovation from start to finish without any hiccups—letting you enjoy all of the benefits that come with returning your home to its full potential (and beyond). So, if you’re ready to get started on achieving those dream house goals, read ahead for more information! The Exterior The very first thing that you should focus on this list when renovating a home is the exterior. When it comes to the exterior, many things can be done. First and foremost, you should ensure that all of your windows are in good condition and consider changing them up; sliding sash windows are a popular choice these days. They can be made to measure and come in a variety of materials. Then there is also the front door to think about. Your front door sets the impression for any guest as to what they can expect once inside the home. One of the most critical factors of the exterior is the paint, so you can always have the house repainted. Landscaping The next thing you should focus on when renovating your house is landscaping. If you have a front garden in your home, this can really up the property value, especially if it is well tended. If you are renovating your home because you are planning on selling it, then improving the landscaping is one of the best things that you can do. Ensure that all the grass is cut and that there are no weeds. If you have any flowers, ensure that there are no weeds in the flowers and that everything is trimmed and tidy. Outdoor lighting can also go a long way, especially if you are showing the house. The Kitchen One of the most important rooms that you should focus on in the entire house when renovating would be the kitchen. Again, if you are planning on selling your house in the future and you are renovating now because you have a chance, consider the fact that 68% of buyers think that the kitchen is a very influential factor as to whether or not they will buy. There are many things that you can do in the kitchen, such as replacing all of the cupboard doors and door handles. You could also update all of your appliances within the kitchen. If you don’t have an island in the middle of the kitchen, now is a great time to have one installed. The Bathroom The next thing you should focus on when renovating a home is your bathroom. As you might have guessed, the bathroom is also a very important room in the house if you are planning on selling, since it’s one of the rooms that buyers pay careful attention to. The great thing about the bathroom is that you just have to make a few adjustments to make it shine. For example, you could replace the glass if you have a shower installed, and you can also replace the shower heads with something more modern. Assuming that your bathroom is tiled, which it should be, you can replace the tiling. You could also consider replacing the faucets as well as the light fixtures. The Flooring Finally, the last thing that you should focus on this list is the flooring within the house. As you can imagine, over time the flooring does get damaged, especially in rooms such as the living room, dining room, and kitchen. If there are any scuff marks on the flooring, you have to have those cleaned, and if your flooring is a little outdated, you can consider upgrading. Carpets are also a very popular choice, so you might consider having a few of those installed, especially if you have an office. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Remortgaging is the process of switching to a new mortgage provider or renegotiating the terms of your existing mortgage with your current lender. You can do this to secure a lower interest rate or to access property equity, which is the difference between the value of the property and the outstanding mortgage balance. For instance, if you’ve built up at least 25k in equity, it could be an excellent time to consider remortgaging for a better interest rate or other reasons. If you need some tips remortgaging after 25k in equity, consider the following: A three-digit number that measures your creditworthiness is your credit score. It’s based on information in your credit report, such as your payment history, credit usage, and length of credit history. Lenders use your credit score to determine the risk of lending you money and to set your mortgage’s terms and interest rate. A good credit score will increase your chances of getting approved for a better mortgage rate, while a low credit score can make it challenging to qualify for a mortgage or result in a higher interest rate. That’s why checking your credit score before considering a remortgage is essential. You can check your credit score for free through several sources, such as credit bureaus, banks, and credit card companies. Some credit card companies offer free credit score access as part of their benefits package. You can also use certain websites to check your credit score. Gather and prepare the necessary documentation beforehand. This includes proof of income, such as pay stubs or tax returns; proof of employment, such as a letter from your employer; and credit history, which can be obtained through a credit report. These documents will be used by the lender to determine your ability to repay the new mortgage and to offer the best possible interest rate. Having these documents ready will make the remortgaging process quicker and smoother. Another crucial decision you’ll need to make is choosing the ideal mortgage rate. A fixed-rate mortgage is a loan in which the interest rate is set for the entire loan term, providing borrowers with stable monthly payments throughout the loan. This type of mortgage is best for those who value predictability in their monthly payments. On the other hand, an adjustable-rate mortgage, or ARM, is a loan where the interest rate can fluctuate based on market conditions. The interest rate is fixed for a certain period—usually 5 or 7 years—after which it can change annually based on the index it’s tied to. This type of mortgage is best for borrowers who are expecting their income to increase in the future and want to take advantage of the lower initial rates. You can use online comparison tools or consult a mortgage broker to compare rates from different lenders. It’s essential to compare the interest rates and other fees associated with the loan, as these can vary significantly between lenders. The fees can include origination fees, points, and closing costs. Factor in the costs associated with the process. These costs can include legal and valuation fees and any fees your current lender charges for switching mortgages. Solicitors or conveyancers typically charge legal fees for handling the legal aspects of the remortgage, such as transferring ownership of the property and preparing the necessary documents. Meanwhile, a professional valuer charges valuation fees to assess the property’s value. These fees can vary depending on the lender and the property’s value, so getting an estimate from your lender or solicitor before proceeding is essential. To calculate the total cost of remortgaging, you’ll need to add up the legal, valuation, and lender fees and any other costs associated with the process. You can then compare the total cost to your potential savings from a lower interest rate. As with any major financial decision, remortgaging requires careful consideration and thorough research. Make sure that remortgaging is the right option for your particular situation. For some homeowners, remortgaging might not be the most cost-effective option, so take the time to assess all of your choices. If you do everything right, remortgaging can be just the solution for you to save money and gain access to additional funds. Conclusion If you plan to remortgage, consult a mortgage broker or financial advisor on how to navigate the process. Also, check your credit score, compare rates and fees, and calculate the costs before making your final decision. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Global construction companies face a unique challenge: how to manage their operations and projects in the most cost-effective way while still delivering high-quality results. Outsourcing is one way that businesses are tackling this challenge. It can offer access to skilled experts who may not be available locally, cost savings, improved customer service, better management of employees and enhanced quality control. This article will explore how global construction companies can capitalise on outsourcing to enhance their operation. 1) Access to Expertise: Outsourcing provides access to a global talent pool which can help construction companies find the right people for their projects. It allows them to quickly source the most qualified professionals, no matter where they are located in the world. This can be especially beneficial when looking for specialists or niche skill sets, as these may not be available locally. By outsourcing such services, global construction companies can ensure their operation has access to all the expertise it needs without having to build up an in-house team. 2) Cost Savings: Costs are always an essential factor in any business decision; this is one of the major advantages of outsourcing. If construction companies use external contractors and subcontractors, they can save money. This is because third-party providers often have access to more competitive rates than in-house staff. They can also take advantage of economies of scale that come from working with a larger network of service providers. These savings can then be passed on to customers or reinvested into other business areas. 3) Improved Customer Service: Outsourcing can help global construction companies provide their customers with improved service. Customer service is an essential factor in any business, and outsourcing can help ensure that projects are completed efficiently while still meeting the customers’ needs. For example, outsourcing certain tasks or processes can help free up resources for other areas, such as customer service, allowing companies to focus on delivering the best possible experience for their customers. 4) Increased Employee Management: Outsourcing can also help global construction companies manage their employee resources more effectively. By outsourcing certain tasks, such as payroll and HR, companies can reduce their administrative burden and free up more time for managing staff. This can help ensure that resources are allocated to where they are most needed in the business while still ensuring that employees’ needs are taken care of. 5) Enhanced Quality Control: Outsourcing can help global construction companies maintain a higher level of quality control. Specialist contractors and subcontractors are more likely to follow the company’s standards and protocols, allowing them to ensure that projects meet their high expectations without having to manage everything themselves. This can also provide peace of mind that any work completed meets both customer and industry standards. Overall, outsourcing is an excellent way for global construction companies to enhance their operation by providing access to expertise, cost savings, improved customer service, increased employee management, and enhanced quality control. By taking advantage of this capability, businesses can make sure their operations run smoother and more efficiently while still providing excellent results. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Running a construction business can be one of the promising ways to generate great profits. People are always looking for construction services, whether to construct a new property or renovate a current one. Therefore, there’s a constant demand for construction services, enabling you to connect with many potential customers. You’ll have to make many decisions when starting a new construction company. And one of them is to choose among the various business structures for your firm. One structure that’s most popular among construction businesses is the limited liability company (LLC). What Is An LLC? An LLC is a business structure that combines the characteristics of a sole proprietorship or partnership and a corporation. It provides limited liability to its members like a corporation and offers pass-through taxation to the company, which means that the LLC owners will have to pay their own taxes. Owners of LLCs are referred to as members. The best thing about this business structure is that there are no restrictions on ownership. Anyone, including individuals, and corporations, can be a member of an LLC. Additionally, there’s no minimum or maximum number of members. You can check the state’s requirements for more information about an LLC. Is An LLC A Good Fit For Construction Businesses? Deciding to run your construction business as a Florida LLC has several implications, and you should take the move only after clearly understanding its pros and cons. It’s also advisable to work with experts like corporate lawyers and financial advisors for professional advice to ensure you make the right choice. Pros Of Running A Construction Business As An LLC There are several benefits of having your construction firm as an LLC. They include the following: Starting a business as a sole proprietorship or partnership has fewer legal formalities. This implies that the company’s debts are also your liabilities. Simply put, your personal assets or properties can be used to cover the company’s debts. LLCs have legal personalities in the eyes of the law that is considered independent outside of its owners or founding members. As such, LLCs are responsible for its own debts. Therefore, your personal assets can’t be used to settle business debts and other obligations. Unlike corporations, LLCs don’t pay taxes on their own names. Depending on the number of members, LLCs usually adopt the tax status of partnerships or sole proprietorships. As such, your construction LLC will always enjoy pass-through taxation. The LLC earnings are distributed among owners, who then pay personal income tax. Although corporations also offer limited liabilities to members, they must adhere to some strict legal requirements. For instance, they must hold annual general meetings and make annual reports. In contrast, members of an LLC have more flexibility and may hold meetings only when they deem it necessary. Another great benefit of forming a construction firm as an LLC is because of its perpetual existence. A sole proprietorship comes to an end when its owner dies. A partnership must be dissolved when one or more members retire or dies. In contrast, an LLC has a perpetual existence. The death, withdrawal, or retirement of a member won’t lead to the dissolution of the company. Hence, this makes it the best structure if you want your children and other members to continue running the business when you retire. Cons Of Runnings A Construction Firm As An LLC As you’ve seen above, running a construction firm as an LLC has several benefits, but it also has its disadvantages. Here are some of them. As explained earlier, forming an LLC is the best way to reduce personal liability if the firm is in legal trouble. However, it doesn’t eliminate all the risks since your company can still lose properties and profits in lawsuits. For instance, if an employee gets injured at the construction site, they can file a lawsuit asking for compensation. Depending on the injury’s severity and the court’s decision, the LLC may be required to pay the employee a significant sum of money as compensation, Compared to sole proprietorships and partnerships, LLCs cost more money to form. For instance, you’ll have to pay an initial formation fee to the government. You may also be required to pay ongoing fees from time to time. Furthermore, you may need to apply for registration should you choose to expand your business to another state. Takeaway You may wonder whether an LLC is a good fit for a construction business. While it has many benefits and only a few drawbacks, you must still discuss it with the founding members to determine if it’s the right structure for your construction business. If you agree to form an LLC, ensure you follow the proper steps that comply with federal and state laws. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
If your snag list shows that there are defects in your new build home then it is the responsibility of the builder to rectify these errors prior to you taking occupancy. However, sometimes requests to perform maintenance or repairs fall on deaf ears. For many homeowners looking forward to their move-in date, what to do in situations like this can be confusing. Home Snagging UK has the answers. Develop a Snagging List Those who are about to take occupancy in a new build home are often not aware that a snagging survey is required. While it is true that major oversights are rare and most builders will take care to adhere to the Building Code, minor issues may slip beneath the radar. Examples include sloppy paintwork and issues with flat roofs, uneven brick or faulty tilework. These problems can also escape your notice, hence the importance of a snagging survey prior to taking occupancy. The result of your efforts should be a focused list that can be supplied to developers so that they can correct the issues. You can develop your own snagging list, however, there are issues that may escape your notice. A better option is to retain the services of a professional snagging company. A company like this will perform a comprehensive survey and inspection, guided by years of experience. The inspection will make use of technology such as drone inspections, examine photos and even use a thermal imaging camera to provide information that they will then cross reference with the relevant regulations in order to ensure that the new home is compliant with accepted standards. Most offline and online estate agents recommend this prior to moving in. Records are Important Each and every interaction that the homeowner has with the builders and developers should be recorded. Copies of any communications should also be forwarded to the site management and the customer service department of the company concerned. Try and deal with a single point of contact in order to simplify those communications. Communication that conforms to these simple guidelines will ensure that the correspondence is seen by representatives in multiple departments at the developer. It motivates the developer to make that extra effort to rectify problems – and your unique case is on several target trackers, adding to the motivation. Once the snagging survey reaches the developer it is almost inevitable that there will be some discussion of the contents. What is essential to record is the developer’s commitment to rectifying any issues and the date by which the actions need to be taken. Take before and after photographs – those should also form part of your records. The De-Snagging Report Once you have handed your snagging list to the builder it is their responsibility to make the required repairs and touch-ups. This will have an added sense of urgency if they are covered by the New Build Warranty. It is not uncommon for repairs to cause additional damage or uncover further issues. The builder or the development representatives may also not have adequately addressed those issues raised in the snagging list, a de-snagging report is essential in order to ensure that all work has been done. The de-snagging report involves an additional visit to the property by the de-snagging specialist to ensure that the builder/developer has fixed the flaws that have been pointed out. Our experienced and professional de-snagging team will return to conduct the follow-up survey, identify if further defects are present, and also ensure that those on the original snagging list have been dealt with. This report will then be sent to the developer. NHBC New Build Warranties In the UK, newly built residential homes are covered by a warranty provider, and it is their ultimate responsibility to ensure that all flaws in new build homes are corrected prior to the owner taking occupancy. Around 80% of the new homes in the UK are covered by NHBC’s Buildmark warranty, making NHBC the largest warranty provider in the country. This property developer warranty ensures that new build owners are delighted with their homes when they finally move in. Within two years of the construction of the home you should liaise directly with the builder should any problems arise. It is the builder’s responsibility to fix these issues. However, should you find yourself in a dispute situation then the NHBC will despatch a Claims Investigator to follow up and rectify the situation. This will involve a visit to your home with the builder and the NHBC representative. After this visit, the NHBC will have four days to issue a report outlining the issues and the deadline for the corrective action that should be taken by the builder. Claims that Remain Unresolved Should you not achieve the end result you are looking for (such as when your snagging list has not been dealt with after eight weeks) then you can file a complaint with the Financial Ombudsman Service. The same will apply should you not agree with the findings of the NHBC Claims Investigator. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Your new office will be the home for your company, and it will be the place that ultimately determines how successful your company will be. Therefore, designing office space that’s comfortable, welcoming, and boosts productivity is essential. A good working atmosphere can benefit your company’s efficiency, productivity, morale, and team attitude. A nice and healthy workplace design helps employees and sends a positive statement to clients and customers. Design your first office in such a way that it may convey a sense of optimism, foster an atmosphere favorable to productive work, and exude elegance. Here, we’ll go through some tips for how to get a balanced look and feel for your first office space. 1. Examine And Then Make a Proper Plan Examine and determine the most efficient use of space before beginning the design process. Think about how much space each department needs, such as the average time employees might spend at their desks, meeting rooms, and other company areas. Optimizing how you use the space in your workplace requires less space than you had initially assumed, which could result in cost savings. You can take the suggestions of the design-build firm to determine the perfect office layout. 2. Welcome More Natural Lights Introduce more light in your office space. Nothing beats a light and airy atmosphere as a place to get things done. Providing employees with access to natural light has improved their mood and motivation, which is useful in any effort to maximize output. Getting rid of the blinds in the office might make for a warmer and more pleasant atmosphere. After all, you want your workplace to be where people like spending their time. Using less artificial light can help save money on energy bills over time, freeing up capital that can be put toward other needs. 3. Consider Glass Walls You can install glass walls in your office to give it a more modern look. Adding extra glass to your office is a great way to give your office a fresh and modern look. It’s common for modern businesses to use glass partitioning systems to allow for more natural light, create a more open layout, and still maintain some privacy. A fantastic alternative for traditional workplace partitions like walls and doors, allowing you to create quiet spaces for work, meetings, and other private activities. Glass walls can be used to improve the aesthetics of an office rather than detract from it. 4. Avoid Big and Heavy Furniture Bulky, heavy and hefty furniture makes the office space feel less open and more cramped. Therefore avoid big heavy furniture to keep your working place open and airy. Use space-saving furniture that will consume less office space and will not crowd out your functional area. It is essential to those business owners with comparatively small office space. In today’s market, choices are abundant when it comes to designing lightweight office space and choosing furniture which is Flexible and has multiple functions. Try to use expandable table chairs and small corner workstations or desks to make the most of a small office space. 5. Take the Remote Workers Into Count If you have employees who work for you remotely, remember to consider them. Though they might not visit the office daily, They require a place to set up and work, when you bring them into town for annual meetings or weekly visits. Add a few more workstations and desks and equip them with necessary office items and technology so they can work properly whenever they are at the office. It will save you from the hassle of temporarily setting up a desk and arranging things for them. And it will also give your remote workers a better sense of belonging in the office. 6. Choose the Colour Carefully Infuse color purposely, do not just use any color here and there. Use a color theme that goes well with your brand, company message, or the environment you want to create in the office space. Traditionally, Using light colors is mainly suggested for working places as these colors reflect lights and give an office a more open, airy, and spacious look. In today’s modern corporate world, colors like blue, grey, white, brown, black, etc., are considered the most suitable colors for the office. On the other hand, colors like orange, purple, green, and yellow are avoided. Different shades of blue are also famous when it comes to designing offices. You can use rich blue shades like Cerulean blue, navy blue, Prussian blue, etc. these hues creates a business-like office look and goes very well with corporate vibes. 7. Add A Lounge You can add a coworking area or a comfortable lounge space for the employees. Sitting at a desk all day long is boring and exhausting for the workers. A short break in a new setting may do wonders for revitalizing the staff and getting them back into the swing of things at work. A change of environment can make the employees feel refreshed and recharged to work. Adding a sofa to your workspace may give it a more inviting appearance. Tables with high tops, booths, and comfy couches can be dispersed throughout the office. 8. Place Indoor Plants In The Office Put some potted plants in your office to brighten the space. Plants within the house have been shown to reduce stress naturally. These plants effectively induce feelings of relaxation, serenity, and greatness in their surroundings. According to several studies, the presence of indoor plants in a working environment may significantly reduce employees’ stress, in addition to having a favorable influence on concentration and creativity. Not only that, but by placing plants in the office, you will be highly increasing the overall aesthetic attractiveness of your workplace. Also, indoor plants improve the air quality of your office. Final Words There are many ways to design an office. It also has to do a lot with the business owner’s preference, company size, budget, etc. Still, we believe the above-mentioned essential
