Navigating and negotiating tenant improvements can always be tricky for a Chicago commercial property manager.  You have to balance the needs of the tenant, while still ensuring the renovations being done will be good for the property after they’re gone.  There can also be additional communications issues, as well as payment negotiations.

In short, tenant improvement projects are complicated, you need a great Chicago tenant improvement contractor who can navigate those challenges.  How do you find the best choice? Here’s what to look for.

Five Signs of a Great Tenant Improvement Contractor in Chicago

1 – Experience

Years of experience is a good sign in any construction contractor, but it’s particularly important for tenant improvement projects.  The complexity and inter-personal politics make them extra challenging for contractors, and you should know that the contractor has plenty of experience dealing with those sorts of issues.  If possible, find a company that’s been in business doing tenant jobs for at least a decade.

2 – Clear lines of communication

Your general contractor is going to be the central point of contact for you and the tenant, whenever you have questions or concerns.  They must have clear, open lines of communication, and be available at all reasonable times.  Likewise, you should be comfortable with their communication style, so misunderstandings are less likely to happen.

3 – Creative thinking and problem-solving

Sometimes your vision for the property, and what the tenant wants to do, aren’t going to entirely line up.  This doesn’t have to sink the project!  A well-experienced contractor is also likely to have some creative solutions for conflicts, or past work where similar disputes arose.  They can help keep the project on track, even if you and the tenant have differences of opinion.

4 – A high degree of professionalism

Professionalism really matters in tenant improvements.  The contractor should be enthusiastic about the work being done, with a crew who are well-vetted, background-checked, and trained in the specific types of upgrades being done.  Look into their testimonials and reviews, as well – those will often reveal which contractors take their jobs seriously.

5 – High-quality work

Don’t skimp out on a tenant improvement project.  After all, the changes made will stay in place for years to come.  Paying a little extra for high-quality materials and work will absolutely pay off in the long run.

Genesis Construction has over a quarter-century’s experience doing tenant improvement construction projects in Chicagoland.  Contact us to being the process with a free consultation.