An owner representative is a vital agent inserted into the process to ensure that the owner's best interest is served throughout the entire evolution of a project. Not only can they prove critical in the early stages of predesign, design, and construction document development to speak the appropriate construction language, but they are even more vital during construction to make sure the construction manager (CM) is assembling the structure according to the Architects construction documents but more importantly the vast array of local and state mandated codes. All of the above adds up to cost savings for the owner that maximizes time efficiencies on all fronts. Further clarification of these areas is outlined below to aid the owner's education.

 

• Single Point of Contact - An owner’s representative is the owner's liaison to the CM throughout the process. They know precisely how to interpret the Owner's questions and concerns to provide fast and accurate results.

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• Expertise and Objectivity - “The devil is in the details” in architecture and construction. Even the best-intended CM can make mistakes in our fast-paced, result-driven world. Having someone review, question, and constantly inspect the process ensures things are done correctly the first time, thus minimizing potential claims down the line.

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• Quality Control - Similar to the above, a good owner's representative will ensure your project receives the care and attention it needs. Constant oversight is essential to any project's success.

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• Schedule - Issues during design or construction can drastically impact a schedule, costing the owner additional funds and delaying the project's completion date. Of course, these have real-world implications that may not be easily understood. Ensuring expert oversight on a project's schedule will ensure it stays on its intended course.

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• Efficiency - An expert's eye will reduce review time during design and construction. Knowing what to look for, where to focus, and when to question the specifics will streamline the process, and minimize impacts.

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• Risk Management - Employing an expert to manage the above vastly reduces the risk to the owner. It again ensures the process is correct from the beginning, reducing claims and saving valuable time and money.

 

• Contracts - Contract language can be complex to understand. Helping to decipher these challenges initially ensures there are no surprises later in the process, which could lead to added fees and schedule delays.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

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• Cost Savings - All of the above demonstrate a mastery of the process, saving the owner money in the long run.

 

The building industry can be daunting, but with an appropriately trained Owner’s Representative, it can be much easier, more enjoyable, and provide excellent results.