How To Select An Asphalt Contractor For Your Municipality Project

Do you know what to look for in a reliable, professional and experienced paving contractor for your next large municipal paving project? Here are some things to consider when going about it.

Request Bids from Multiple Contractors

Bids can vary almost wildly from one company to the other, so this isn’t just about gathering bids from three or four contractors and picking the cheapest bidder. It’s about digging into the specifics of each bid to compare the services and prices listed. Make sure you understand all of the services listed, materials and methods used and how they will affect the end product. The lowest bidder may be providing a cheaper quality product, while the highest may be overcharging. You won’t know until you really compare each bid and the contractors’ history.

Timing and Budget Efficiency

Review projects to determine which contractors kept to their plan and which veered unnecessarily. True, some delays are unavoidable – such as if there was a long-lasting winter and wet spring. Keep an eye on trends. Note those who worked well in spite of challenges, and note those who were excessively delayed.

Experience

Municipal paving contractors who are used to performing large projects that are completed in phases require different competencies than residential or commercial paving contractors. To ensure minimum disruptions and quality work that is on time and on budget, you’ll want to choose a paving contractor with large scale experience. They should demonstrate an understanding of your municipality’s needs and regulations, including storm water management and ADA compliance.

Licensed, Bonded and Insured

Your paving contractor should be licensed with the appropriate authority, bonded and insured. Legitimate paving contractors will have valid business and contractor licenses and have surety bonds attached to those licenses. Your preferred paving contractor should also carry workers compensation insurance, general liability insurance and an umbrella policy, and all their commercial vehicles and paving equipment will be properly insured.

Equipment and Materials

Does your municipal paving contractor have his own equipment and materials or will the company have to purchase material and rent equipment? A contractor that owns his own machinery and manufacturers his own material is better able to control the costs of the project and ensure the quality of the material.

The industrial and commercial asphalt world is always changing. Please like this article, share this article, or visit us at https://arnoldasphalt.com.