Why Building Contractors Need Certifiers
Building construction is one of those jobs that requires the input of more than just a general contractor. Building contractors need to enlist the services of other contractors in order to ensure that everything is done right from start to finish. One type of contractor that needs to be hired for building construction jobs is a certifier. Building certifiers perform a number of critical activities that play a big part in ensuring the successful completion of the entire project. Here's a breakdown of what these construction professionals do.
Giving building approval.
Architects and building designers come up with designs for proposed buildings and deliver them to building contractors for implementation. Before they can get started with the construction work, it is important for building contractors to seek the expert opinion of an independent professional. That's how building certifiers come into the picture. Building certifiers can examine and analyse building plans made for use in actual construction. They will check whether or not the plans meet state and local building codes. If a building plan meets building requirements, a certifier will rubber-stamp it. If it doesn't, the certifier can refuse to give their official approval until the necessary changes are made to it or a new plan is drawn up. In most states, it is illegal to continue with building construction work without getting a go-ahead from a registered certifier.
Monitoring ongoing work.
Building construction involves performing different project activities, and it is imperative to involve a building certifier every step of the way. A building certifier will check if every stage of the construction process has been carried out in accordance with existing building codes and meet the standards of workmanship. This can help rectify potential problems early so as to avoid high repair costs, and ensure that the entire construction process goes smoothly.
Inspecting completed work.
Once all construction work has been finished, a building certifier should be called upon to carry out an inspection of the entire building, assessing the general condition of the structure. At this juncture, the certifier will check the structural soundness of the structure as well as its suitability to be used for the intended purpose.
Before engaging the services of a building certifier, it is important for construction contractors to agree on the terms of service and sign written contracts before any work can begin. This will help define each party's liability in regard to work performed.
