Commercial contractors are key players in the development, maintenance, and renovation of commercial properties. They deliver a wide range of services tailored to meet the specific needs of businesses, ensuring efficiency, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. From building new structures to completing post-construction services, the expertise of a commercial contractor helps businesses focus on core operations while ensuring their physical spaces meet modern standards.
This extensive blog is an in-depth exploration of the top services offered by commercial contractors and why businesses need them.
What Are The Services Offered By Commercial Contractors?
Commercial contractors are professionals specializing in non-residential construction projects. Their work spans various industries, including office buildings, retail spaces, warehouses, hospitals, and schools. Acting as project managers, designers, and builders, they bring together skilled teams, quality materials, and streamlined strategies to turn business visions into reality.
Here are the services commercial construction companies provide and what essential role they play in a successful building project:
1. General Contracting
General contracting involves managing every aspect of a construction project, acting as a single point of contact for all services, including preconstruction, material procurement, labor, construction management, and facility maintenance. Hiring subcontractors like electricians, plumbers, HVAC specialists, and coordinating tasks to them fall under their responsibilities.
The commercial general contractor oversees the project from start to finish, ensuring seamless execution of tasks such as framing, electrical work, roofing, and painting. It’s their responsibility to ensure the project aligns with the client’s budget, timeline, and quality expectations.
Why You Need It:
General contracting streamlines the commercial construction process. With an experienced construction company managing your project, you save time and avoid the hassle of coordinating multiple parties. Additionally, general contractors ensure compliance with local codes, maintain timelines, and deliver quality results within budget. Their network of reliable subcontractors and suppliers adds another layer of efficiency and cost-effectiveness. In 2024, an estimated 70,540 firms were operating in the commercial building construction sector across the U.S.
2. Design and Build Services
Design-build services combine design and construction phases into a single contract. The design-build commercial contractor acts as a single point of contact by working with in-house or outsourced architects and engineers to create a comprehensive plan that meets the client’s vision. They offer end-to-end construction services, from team selection to project management, which gives single-point accountability. Such a unified approach by one commercial contractor eliminates the need for separate contracts with multiple entities.
Why You Need It:
Design and build services often lead to cost savings and quicker project timelines because the team collaborates from the start. It helps achieve better communication among various teams to meet the project goals.
For example, a week before opening, the restaurant owner requested a wine display integrated with custom lighting. The hired design-build firm redesigned cabinetry, sourced materials, and coordinated trades, delivering the elegant feature on time.
Progressive design-build, a branch of design-build, continues to be a popular procurement approach, found in a new study by the Design-Build Institute of America and FMI.
3. Ground-Up Construction
As part of ground-up construction services, commercial general contractors build a structure entirely from scratch, starting with land development and progressing through foundation, framework, and final finishes. From optimized layouts to modern energy solutions, this new construction service ensures a property aligns with operational goals and branding.
Why You Need It:
New construction offers a clean slate for businesses to create a custom space tailored to their needs. Business owners benefit from ground-up construction by gaining complete control over their building’s design, functionality, and future adaptability.
On average, a single-story commercial office costs about $313 per square foot to build from scratch. The cost of a new medical office building may reach up to $498 per square foot.
4. Commercial Renovation and Remodeling
Renovation and remodeling services update existing commercial properties to meet current needs or improve aesthetics. Most commercial contractors provide these renovation services:
- Interior Upgrades: Enhancing flooring, ceilings, lighting, and layout to improve functionality and aesthetics.
- Exterior Improvements: Updating facades, landscaping, and signage to boost curb appeal.
- Compliance Updates: Ensuring older buildings meet current safety, accessibility, and energy codes.
Why You Need It:
Businesses renovate to refresh their image, accommodate growth, or adapt to market demands. According to the Department of Energy, commercial buildings waste up to 30% of their energy consumption. Renovating an existing facility with energy-efficient upgrades not only saves utility bills but also offers property owners tax deductions. Besides, a remodeled space extends a property’s lifespan, decreases long-term maintenance costs, and improves employee and customer experiences.
5. Interior Build-Outs or Tenant Improvements (TIs)
Interior build-outs, also referred to as interior fit-outs or tenant improvements (TIs), transform raw spaces into functional environments tailored to a tenant’s requirements. These improvements by a commercial contractor may range from extensive structural alterations to minor aesthetic changes.
Essentially, the commercial build-out process is a partnership between the architect, interior designer, and the general contractor. Commercial contractor build-out services often include installing walls, ceilings, flooring, lighting, HVAC systems, and painting to create a fully operational workspace.
The average cost of a commercial build-out per square foot is $65 with standard finishes, as reported by WeWork.
Why You Need It:
If your commercial space is outdated and requires a modernized look, improved space efficiency, or compliance with current building codes, investing in interior build-out services can provide the perfect solution. These services allow businesses to customize leased or bought spaces to align with their operations and branding. For landlords, high-quality tenant improvements attract premium tenants and increase property value.
For example, a retail store can guide customers to high-margin products with optimized layouts, while a tech startup might prioritize collaborative office designs. Another benefit of build-outs or tenant improvement is that your commercial space is ready for immediate use without much delay.
6. Project Management
Project management services involve overseeing the entire construction project lifecycle, from initial planning to final delivery. As project managers, commercial contractors keep the project on schedule, identify potential issues and implement risk management techniques, while monitoring expenses to avoid budget overruns. They serve as the central point of contact for stakeholders and communicate effectively with subcontractors to ensure the project progresses smoothly.
Why You Need It:
Effective project management helps you achieve your desired outcomes without unnecessary stress. For example, during construction, if the delivery of steel beams for structural framing is delayed due to supply chain disruptions, the project manager can find alternative suppliers to keep the project on track. Whether it’s the construction of office spaces, industrial buildings, hotels, or any complex projects, quality project management services result in functional and aesthetic commercial structures.
7. Preconstruction Services
Pre-construction sets the stage for a successful commercial construction project by turning ideas into a concrete plan. It is the first step toward a commercial building process that involves detailed planning and analysis before actual construction begins. Typically, pre-construction services offered by commercial contractors include:
- Construction Site Analysis: Evaluating the land to determine feasibility, zoning requirements, environmental impact, and more.
- Budgeting and Scheduling: Preparing detailed cost breakdowns and a preliminary schedule for the entire construction team to follow.
- Design Collaboration: Partnering with architects and designers to guide the process from initial schematic design through to final design development.
- Material Procurement: Ordering and assembling necessary construction materials and equipment from trusted suppliers to avoid delays. Also includes planning logistics for seamless on-site deliveries.
- Bid Packaging: Distributing preconstruction plans to solicit bids from qualified specialty contractors and vendors.
- Permits and Approvals: Managing the paperwork, necessary permits, and local regulations to avoid project delays.
Why You Need It:
A preconstruction process helps bring different team members like contractors, subcontractors, architects, engineers, and project owners on the same page, avoiding future misunderstandings. By adopting a proactive approach, a commercial contractor can identify any potential challenges early to mitigate them effectively. For business owners, pre-construction services can ensure the most profitable use of their financial investment and time.
A 2022 Procore and FMI survey of 979 global construction stakeholders revealed that effective preconstruction can reduce rework, which amounts to 19% of a project’s total cost.
8. Construction Management
Numerous commercial building contractors provide construction management as one of their services. Unlike project managers, who focus on broader organizational objectives, construction managers are an extension of owners who specialize mainly in the construction phase and oversee on-site activities.
Acting on behalf of project owners, a construction manager ensures overall efficiency, cost control, quality assurance, and adherence to schedules. Their prime responsibilities include:
- Construction planning
- Site management
- On-site safety management
- Addressing unpredicted construction issues
- Ensuring legal compliance at every project stage
- Communication with stakeholders, suppliers, and subcontractors across all project stages
- Final inspections and the handover
Why You Need It:
The greatest advantage of construction management services is that they alleviate the business owner’s stress by handling the day-to-day operations on-site. As a business, you can benefit from a manager’s professional oversight, ensuring commercial building projects resolve issues quickly and maintain safety standards while still retaining control.
This service guarantees construction is completed to the highest quality standards, with no compromises, and that premium materials are used. Today, more than 233,245 construction managers are employed in the United States.
9. Specialized Services
Specialized services include HVAC installation, electrical and plumbing systems, fire safety measures, and accessibility modifications. Many general contracting firms offer green building solutions to help businesses achieve their sustainability goals. These are technical aspects that require expertise to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Why You Need It:
These building systems are essential for any commercial property. Proper installation and maintenance ensure safety, comfort, and efficiency. Accessibility upgrades make spaces more inclusive, while energy-efficient improvements lower costs and reduce environmental impact. Hiring commercial contractors helps businesses avoid expensive mistakes and achieve long-term savings.
10. Site Improvements
Commercial contractors provide both on-site and off-site improvements that enhance property functionality and aesthetics.
- On-site improvements may include earthwork, foundation excavation, landscaping, parking lots, drainage, and utility connections.
- Off-site improvements such as sidewalks, curbs, utility relocations, and traffic lanes are often completed to support new developments and comply with municipal zoning and building codes.
These changes increase the usability, long-term property value, safety, and aesthetics of a commercial building.
Why You Need It:
Well-planned site improvements enhance curb appeal, ensure compliance with zoning regulations, and create a better experience for visitors and employees. Moreover, installing proper drainage and utility connections also prevents future problems, safeguarding the property’s value. Research says properties with professional landscaping sell for 15-20% higher prices than those without.
11. Post-Construction Services
After construction is complete, commercial contractors provide post-construction services to ensure your building is fully functional and ready for occupancy. From inspecting all building aspects to handing over documentation and keys to the owner, post-construction services are as follows:
- Final Inspections: Conducting final walkthroughs to inspect all work meets specifications.
- Punch List Completion: Creating a punch list detailing any remaining tasks, repairs, or touch-ups and addressing them.
- Warranty Process: Addresses any issues post-construction and during the warranty period.
- Facility Training: Teaching facility users how to operate and maintain building systems, equipment, and safety protocols.
- Maintenance Plans: Offering ongoing maintenance services to keep your property in top condition.
Why You Need It:
Post-construction services guarantee a smooth transition from construction to operation. A thorough final inspection ensures all systems function correctly, avoiding future disruptions. In addition, maintenance training equips your team to handle routine tasks, reducing long-term costs.
12. Facility Maintenance
Facility maintenance encompasses ongoing services to keep commercial properties in excellent condition post-construction. Generally, commercial contractors focus on preventive maintenance services that include:
- Routine inspections
- Equipment repairs
- Cleaning
- Ongoing upkeep of building systems like HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and fire safety
- 24/7 emergency services for unexpected damage or incidents
Some commercial contractors also use advanced technologies like Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS), IoT sensors, and energy management systems for real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance.
Why You Need It:
Regular maintenance prevents costly breakdowns, extends the lifespan of building systems, and ensures a safe working environment. For instance, a commercial general contractor performs regular roof inspections to prevent or repair leaks, ensuring the building remains protected and operational without costly repairs. Facility maintenance also preserves the aesthetic and functional integrity of your property, maintaining your professional image.
13. Turnkey Solutions
Turnkey services involve delivering a fully completed property ready for immediate use. The commercial contractor manages everything from design and construction to permitting and final handover, allowing the client to “turn the key” and start operations. Unlike traditional contracting, a turnkey contractor manages all commercial construction project stages, removing the need for the client to coordinate with multiple parties. This project delivery method ensures a more streamlined and efficient process from start to finish.
Forbes says that in commercial real estate, a turnkey solution could involve identifying a suitable property, fitting it out to align with the business needs, and sometimes even securing permits.
Why You Need It:
Turnkey solutions are ideal for businesses with tight deadlines or limited budgets that don’t require extensive customization. They are a “one size fits all” solution, resulting in lower costs for both property owners and landlords. Since turnkey projects are built in controlled environments, they lead to a high-quality final product with minimal client liability due to the contractor’s insurance coverage.
For example, a leading grocery store chain expanded rapidly by using turnkey solutions to build new locations. This streamlined approach allowed them faster time-to-market and maintained consistent design and quality across all branches.
How To Choose The Right Commercial Contractor?
Choosing the right commercial contractor is crucial for the success of any commercial project, whether it’s renovating an existing space or developing a new building. Here are some helpful suggestions for finding the right partner for your project:
- Start by researching “top commercial contractors” and reputable “construction companies near me” online.
- Look for those with experience in past projects similar to yours and a strong track record in delivering quality work on time.
- Verify that the general contractor meets all licensing requirements, and has insurance coverage like worker’s compensation or general liability insurance, and certifications.
- Request detailed proposals to compare services and ensure you get a fair price without sacrificing quality.
- Ask past clients for references to evaluate the reliability and service quality of the commercial building contractor.
- Select a contractor who listens and understands your project needs, budget, and timeline.
Working with local commercial contractors expert in complex builds will help ensure your project site operates smoothly and meets all compliance standards.
Commercial Contractor Services Are Indispensable
Commercial contractors offer comprehensive services essential for successful construction projects. From design and planning to construction management and post-completion maintenance, they ensure commercial projects are completed on time, within budget, and to high-quality standards. Their expertise covers renovations, new builds, and property maintenance, providing tailored solutions for various business needs. By managing complex processes and ensuring regulatory compliance, commercial contractors enable businesses to focus on core operations while delivering efficient, reliable, and professional construction outcomes.
Work With Us
If you require one of the above-mentioned commercial contracting services, trust Constructive Solutions, Inc. to deliver exceptional results. From pre-construction planning to final handover, our comprehensive solutions never fail to satisfy our clients. Contact our team to discuss your next project!
FAQs
How much do commercial general contractors charge?
Commercial general contractors typically charge 10%–20% of the total project cost, depending on the project’s size, complexity, and location.
What are commercial building services?
Commercial building services include ground-up construction, remodeling or renovation, tenant improvements, project management, and maintenance of commercial properties like offices, retail spaces, and industrial facilities.
What does contractor services mean?
Contractor services involve managing and executing construction projects, including labor, materials, project management, and compliance with regulations.
What do commercial construction companies do?
Commercial construction companies design, build, renovate, and maintain non-residential buildings like retail stores, dining spaces, office complexes, industrial facilities, and many others, ensuring projects meet client expectations and local regulations.
Relevant Resources:
- Top 10 Questions to Ask Commercial Renovation Contractors Before Hiring
- How to Choose the Right Tenant Improvement Contractor in San Francisco?
Constructive Solutions, Inc. is a full-service commercial construction company serving San Francisco and Bay Area.
Whatever your vision, we have the resources, experience, and insight to make your concept a reality, and a space where your business can flourish.
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