Part of our guide to Construction Companies in Uganda
The best way to choose a building contractor is to ask good questions and compare the answers. This list gives you a script for the meeting, grouped by topic, with the answers you should expect. Use it with every contractor you consider, including us.
We are a builder too, so ask us these questions as well. For the full selection process, read how to choose a construction company.
About the company
- Are you a registered company? Can I see the certificate of incorporation? (Confirm it with URSB.)
- How long has the company been operating, and what has it built?
- Who owns it and who will I deal with?
About experience
- Have you built a project like mine, of this size and type?
- Can I visit a finished building, and speak to the owner?
- Can I see a project in progress?
About the people
- Who will be the site manager or foreman on my project?
- Is there an engineer, and how often will they visit?
- Do you use your own workers or sub-contractors? Which trades?
About the price
- Will you give me an itemised BOQ priced from my drawings? See the bill of quantities guide.
- Is the price labour only, or labour and materials?
- What is excluded from the price?
- How will changes be priced?
About payment
- What are the payment stages, and are they linked to completed work?
- How much do you want up front?
- Will I get receipts for every payment?
About time
- What is the programme, with start and finish dates for each stage?
- What happens if the work is delayed, by you or by me?
About quality
- What materials will you use, and can I see the grades?
- How will you check the reinforcement and the concrete?
- What happens if there are defects after handover, and for how long?
About the contract
- Will you sign a written contract with the scope, price, payment stages and programme? See construction contracts in Uganda.
- Who handles approvals and inspections?
Warning signs
A contractor who cannot show registration, will not give a written itemised quote, asks for a large advance, cannot show completed work or pressures you to sign quickly should be avoided. See building contractors in Uganda.
Frequently asked questions
What should I ask a contractor first?
Whether it is registered, and to see the certificate. Then ask to see finished buildings.
How many contractors should I ask?
Two or three, with the same drawings, so you can compare the BOQs.
Should I pay a deposit?
Keep any advance small and agree stage payments linked to completed work.
Can I speak to past clients?
Ask. A good contractor will let you visit a finished building and talk to the owner.
Do I need a written contract?
Yes. It should set out the scope, price, payment stages and programme.