Creating Harmony with Contractors

When you hire a contractor, it's with the expectation that everything would go smoothly. Unfortunately, there are times when the contractor lets you down. Knowing how to deal with disagreements or issues with your contractor can save a project from becoming a disaster for both you and you customer. As a contractor and someone who has worked with hundreds of clients, I would like to share with you some tips to help deal with issues when they come up during a project.

The first step is to stop and reflect. Identify the specific problems or concerns you have with the contractor. Be clear about what you expect from them and what has gone wrong. While time is money, this is an instance where clarity is critical. By reflecting, you can pinpoint the actual issues and also decide what is worth bringing up and what may not be necessary to bring up. Reflection also gives you the time to calm down and look at the issue from a different perspective.

The next step is to reach out to the contractor and schedule a meeting to discuss the conflict. It is essential to approach the conversation with a calm and open mindset. Clearly express your concerns, provide specific examples, and listen to the contractor's perspective. Keep the conversation professional and focused on finding a resolution. During the meeting, aim to find a resolution that satisfies both parties. Explore possible compromises and alternative solutions. Consider the feasibility of adjustments to the project scope, timeline, or cost to address the conflict. Keep an open mind and be willing to negotiate for a fair outcome. I can assure you from my experience on the contractor's side of things we do not want conflict with our clients either and are happy to sit down and speak with the client to work on a mutual solution.

Assuming the meeting with the contractor went well, it is important to maintain the conversation. Maintaining the conversation helps to avoid further issues and ensure that you and your contractor are working towards the same goal. It also helps to keep friendly terms between you and the contractor.?

Remember, it is always beneficial to maintain professionalism and approach the conflict resolution process with a problem-solving mindset. By addressing the conflict promptly and effectively, you increase the chances of finding a resolution with your contractor. If you are a property manager or serve a similar role, at some point, an issue will come up; these tips will help you to address the issue in the best way possible.