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Frequently Asked Questions
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What is PHASE BUILDING?
Phase building is the concept of having one company complete an entire
phase of your construction project.
Why is this better for the Builder?
1. One Stop Shop – Each of our Builder’s
are assigned one person that manages the building of that phase.
That person is known as the Builder Representative. Any questions
concerning production, materials, quality, safety, cleanliness can
all be resolved through the Builder Representative. No more calling
and scheduling multiple contractors. No more material worries. One
person does it all, our Builder Representative.
2. Fewer Number of Superintendants Needed – Allowing
RIDG to manage the phase of construction gives the Builder the opportunity
to use their Superintendants more effectively and thus reducing
the number that will be needed on the jobsite. Only periodic checks
will be needed during this process.
3. Decreased Production Time – In all cases RIDG can
reduce your current cycle time for the production phase. RIDG has
been able to reduce some Builder’s cycle times by months.
RIDG can do this because we manage all material and labor internally.
RIDG will give each Builder a predetermined duration time for the
production of each phase.
4. Lower Brick and Mortar – Because ALL material and
labor is housed under one roof, RIDG is able to offer substantial
discounts to our Builders. Our Preferred Builders receive even LARGER
than normal discounts to their brick and mortar prices.
5. Inspections – RIDG has great relationships with
EVERY municipality in which we operate. The inspectors know our
quality first hand and our relationships with the inspectors become
the builder’s. You no longer have to worry about passing or
failing and how much time that will set your schedule back.
6. Increased Quality – Since each trade is part of
the RIDG Team, they have a vested interest in the success of the
project. The result is a level of quality that is unsurpassed in
the building industry. Using quality products, maintaining a clean
job site, site safety, and quality work can be expected on a daily
basis.
How is this idea different from just being a General Contractor?
RIDG Inc. holds a Virginia Class ‘A’ Contractors License.
The difference is that all of the trades are employed under one roof.
By doing this RIDG is able to control scheduling for the builder,
as well as providing a lower overall bid/cost for the builder. The
concept is already in place, at a lesser degree, with trades that
combine HVAC, Electrical, and Plumbing or Roofing, Siding, and Gutters.
Are there any other companies doing the same thing?
Yes. There are a handful of companies that provide this turnkey service
for builders.
They are currently in California, Nevada, Florida, Maryland, and Virginia.
The idea has been a huge success for the builders that have tried
these turnkey services. Builders have stated that the benefits of
using these companies far outweigh any of the builder’s initial
concerns. One company was headlined in a national builder magazine
as a builder’s saving grace during this downturn in the market.
How will payment be structured?
Most builders are structured to pay each individual task when that
task is completed. RIDG can be set up on that same system or we can
provide the builder with an alternative option where they pay when
the phase is complete. This allows the builder to hold payment and
conserve cash flow and the manpower associated with paying on each
task.
How does the builder communicate with RIDG?
RIDG has streamlined this system for the builder. No more calling
several different trades to perform or schedule one task. Each builder
has one point of contact with RIDG; their Builder’s Representative.
This individual is the sole point of contact for any of the builder’s
needs. The Builder’s Representative will call the Construction
Managers and schedule anything that needs to be accomplished as well
as pass on any information that the builder would like to see in the
field.
How can RIDG Inc. guarantee the time frame of the schedule?
Every week our Construction Managers hold a meeting. At this meeting
all scheduling and progress is discussed. The Construction Managers
use this time to communicate with each other and integrate their schedules
in an efficient, even-flow manner. This meeting is the heart of the
operation. This prevents dry runs and the scheduling can get as tight
as possible. Each department works with the others, there is no arguing
over field issues, and challenges are overcome.
Does the builder get an opportunity to inspect the work?
Yes. Upon completion the builder walks the home and creates the punch
list. We will then schedule our crew to come back within 96 hours
to complete the punchlist. Additionally the builder can walk the house
during any stage of production to verify quality and safety.
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