Are you a busy Builder with an expanding job list? Scaling your business? If so, there's a number of construction documentation you'll need. Read on for the full list.
Scaling your construction business takes a great amount of time and effort. From growing your network and promoting your business, to updating your equipment and employing new people. There’s a lot to consider.
One of the most important things to get right is construction documentation. You've started to employ more people, secure more contracts and work your way up the industry ladder. It's now time to ensure the appropriate policies, procedures, checklists and safety practices are in place. This ensures consistency and peace-of-mind as your business grows.
For more about the safety obligations of the Principal Contractor head to the blog post Principal Contractor: obligations and responsibilities.
Writing and developing construction documentation can be time consuming and extensive. However, it's crucial to ensure your worksite is compliant.
Construction documentation - what you'll need
Here’s a list of common construction documentation you need to implement as you start to scale your business:
- WHS Management Plan
- Risk Assessment
- Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS)
- Job Safety Analysis (JSA)
- Inspections Test Plans (ITPs)
- Quality Management Plan
- Project Management Plan (PMP)
And the list goes on! There are countless documents that every building business should at least be aware of when expanding.
Where to find construction documentation
Builder Assist has a dedicated Builders Pack available to purchase through our website. The pack is instantly downloadable, and includes a full set of all the documents and procedures (over 200 documents). This is all you’ll ever need throughout your career.
This documentation is the most up-to-date in the industry. Furthermore, each document was developed by industry experts to give you peace-of-mind that the information is compliant and correct. Go to the Builders Pack to view the full list of documents included, or purchase it.
Alternatively, you can purchase building documentation individually. Head to our Builders section to see the full range.
Builder Assist has categorised documents and procedures that are specific to each building trade. Take a look at the categories for Tradespeople.
How to grow your construction business
Just starting out? See below for our top tips on growing your construction business:
The 'A Team'
A chain is only as strong as its weakest link, and so is your team’s strength. Try to take your time to build a solid team. Try not to rush the appointments, nor skip checking on references. For more on the 'A Team', read our blog '5 tips to manage construction business growth'.
Strengthen your network
Networking events add value! Set aside some time to attend social outings, golf days, industry meetings, entrepreneur groups, or events in related industries. The more extensive your network, the more often your name can be shared.
Make it easy for clients to contact you
Have multiple contact options on your website. Also, consider a virtual assistant if you can’t afford a full-time employee! Some more contact options include contact forms, live chat functions, and email addresses on every page of your website. A good rule of thumb is if you can’t answer calls within 24 hours, you have lost the client. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
References!
Just like your potential staff need references, so do you! Published proof of satisfied customers is priceless and word of mouth is the best form of marketing. If you can, ask clients to complete Google Reviews and publish some review excerpts on your web pages. A project gallery is also an influential display of what you are capable of!
Processes and automation
As your business grows, so will your administrative requirements and risk profile. Aim to automate as many ‘back-end’ business processes you can. There is industry-specific software available that will make productivity management streamlined and effective.
