BGTC Construction 10-Point Code of Ethics

1. We will always provide a detailed cost breakdown before beginning the work. The primary concern of consumers entering into a construction project is the ability to account for and justify the total cost of the proposed work. Creating a detailed allocation of costs allows the
owner to make informed decisions about specifying the work. The important factor is that a clear description of costs eliminates many misunderstandings and conflicts between contractor and project owner.

2. We will always provide a written schedule for the progress of the work.
It is not enough to generally assign a block of time to the entire project. Project owners want the opportunity to follow the roadmap of the progress by being prepared for delivery of materials, waiting time for coatings to dry, scheduling of inspections and all components of the use of time. The schedule document, whether a bar chart or a simple calendar page, allows the owners to remain informed about the progress of the work.

3. We will always secure a building permit, if it is required. Regardless of the size of the project, the building authority should be provided with an opportunity to review the health, safety and welfare issues that are addressed in the building codes. By taking this step, the contractor is assuring the homeowner that the work is being completed under the requirements of the various codes.

4. We will always sign a written contract that includes our cost breakdown, the schedule and the plans. The importance of a written contract goes far beyond describing the work and the cost to be paid. Contracts define what action the parties will take when unforeseen events occur. The care taken to draft a complete and detailed agreement is an invaluable step towards the smooth completion of the project and a strong relationship between the contractor and owner.

5. We will always provide sufficient labor to accomplish the work according to the project schedule. Perhaps the most frequent complaint of project owners against contractors is the tendency to not provide workers for the job in a manner to adhere to the schedule. Contractors subscribing to this principal provide owners with a level of comfort that work is going forward and the schedule is being followed When circumstances such as weather and material deliveries cause delays, the contractor will notify the owner of the delay and provide a revised completion date. The key element is improved levels of communication regarding the management of the project schedule.

6. We will always leave the job in a clean and orderly condition. The value of a clean job site is often underestimated by the work force. Not only is the safety of the project site increased by the elimination of debris and clutter, building inspectors tend to spend their time evaluating work for its care rather than being critical of the lack of housekeeping.

7. We will provide you with a list of the subcontractors that we intend to hire. A typical remodel will involve numerous subcontractors to perform the countless tasks and provide diverse materials and equipment to the job. By providing a list of all subcontractors and suppliers, the contractor is informing owners of the characteristics of the team that will be accomplishing the work. This has serious consequences when dealing with the administration of mechanics lien rights and releases. But more importantly, subcontractors and their suppliers provide valuable insurance for equipment failures and consequential damage.

8. We will provide a detailed invoice that incorporates a current report of the project budget. Contractors and owners alike are familiar with trauma associated with the “final invoice.” The surprises that occur when all of the accounting for changes and upgrades are totaled are generally associated with the last invoice. Contractors have a critical duty to their customers to keep them informed throughout the project regarding revisions to the total budget. Small and seemingly inconsequential upgrades can mount up to a substantial cost, if not carefully and faithfully monitored. Experience has shown that even a diligent change order system fails to inform the owners of the total impact of the aggregate changes that have been made. With a budget report, line items created in the initial cost breakdown are accounted for on every invoice. Changes are also reflected on every invoice as soon as the owners elect them.

9. We will compile a booklet of all manufacturers’ warranties for any new equipment we install. Manufacturers of water heaters, furnaces, thermostats, fireplaces, and appliances provide detailed brochures with instruction, warranties, and maintenance tips. The contractor will endeavor to gather and bind all of the technical bulletins and brochures and assemble them into a booklet for retention by the owner.

10. We will conduct a walk-through inspection with you and correct any deficient work prior to final payment. The contractor agrees that no final payment will be made until all unfinished work has been completed. The contractor will correct any deficient or damaged work according to the agreement between the parties.