Thank you for visiting Office Genjoukaifuku Dot.Com.

Today, we would like to introduce a post titled:
“For Those Considering a Construction Estimate.”

Previously, we published an article outlining the general flow of original condition restoration work.

In this article, we aim to provide helpful guidance for anyone who is:

• Considering requesting a construction estimate
• Planning a restoration or renovation project
• Wanting to better understand the procedures and important points when hiring a contractor — not limited to original condition restoration

 

We hope this guide will serve as a useful reference for those preparing to move forward with construction work.

 

Importance of Estimates and Site Surveys

 

 

 

 

As we have mentioned several times in this blog, whether it’s interior work or any type of construction project,
obtaining an estimate before starting work is one of the most critical steps.

Particularly in interior construction, most of the required information is determined at the time of the estimate.

After gathering the necessary details, we conduct an on-site survey at the client’s location to accurately assess the conditions.

This allows us to calculate an approximate scope of work, such as the area to be constructed,
as well as estimate the required manpower, materials, and tools.

 

 

While we understand that meetings with construction contractors can feel burdensome, especially during busy times,
some clients may consider providing necessary information themselves and skipping the site survey altogether.

However, conducting an on-site survey often reveals far more important information than initially expected,
which can significantly impact the planning and execution of the project.

 

 

For example, an on-site survey helps determine where construction materials should be stored and
how to establish efficient and safe movement routes during operations.

It also allows us to assess nearby traffic conditions and identify which neighboring tenants or facilities may require special consideration when planning delivery and removal routes.

 

 

Even if we are initially informed that goods can be transported using the building’s elevator,
there is often a possibility that the size of the materials or equipment may exceed the elevator’s capacity, making it unusable.

 

 

As you can see, conducting an on-site survey is an essential step that cannot be overlooked.

While some contractors may allow the site survey to be skipped, doing so can significantly increase the risks.

For example, unexpected changes in the required work scope or inaccurate material estimates may lead to large discrepancies between the initial estimate and the final invoice.

Additionally, there is a greater chance that the project duration may end up being longer than originally anticipated.

 

 

 

Although arranging a site survey may feel inconvenient at times,
it is essential to request a proper on-site inspection when obtaining a construction estimate.

Examples of what contractors typically check during a site survey:

• Where construction materials and waste can be temporarily stored
• Planning safe and efficient routes for the delivery and removal of materials and debris
• Assessing nearby traffic conditions and identifying any third parties, such as neighboring tenants, who may be affected by the construction work

 

 

Be Sure to Request Competitive Estimates from Multiple Contractors!

 

 

It is generally recommended to obtain estimates from at least three contractors.

 

The primary reason for this is that even if the construction scope is exactly the same,
the number of workers a contractor can arrange, as well as material procurement sources, often differ.

 

As a result, material costs and overall project costs can vary significantly between contractors.

 

Other factors, such as the number of truck trips required for material delivery and removal,
can also lead to differences in the final cost.

 

Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for some contractors to inflate costs unjustifiably for items such as construction work or logistics.

 

To properly evaluate and compare contractors,
it is advisable to request detailed cost breakdowns and explanations when necessary.

 

Moreover, if a certain estimate appears unusually low compared to others, caution is warranted.

 

There is a risk that necessary work may be omitted, or that the quality of workmanship may be compromised.

 

By obtaining multiple estimates, you can better identify contractors who offer not only competitive pricing
but also maintain a consistent level of quality in their construction work.

 

However, coordinating site surveys with multiple contractors and waiting for all the estimates
to be completed can take more time than expected.

 

For this reason, if you are considering any construction work,
we strongly recommend starting the process early and allowing sufficient time for planning and preparation.​

 

 

 

Why Construction Estimates Vary Between Contractors: A Summary

 

• The number of workers each contractor can arrange differs.
• The sources from which materials are procured vary, leading to differences in material and transportation costs.

 

 

After construction work begins, make an effort to visit the site regularly and check the progress whenever possible.

 

 

 

After the initial meetings are completed and construction work has begun, it is crucial to monitor the project’s progress carefully.

In original condition restoration projects, for example,
there have been cases where the property owner’s fixtures were accidentally removed,
unnecessary work was carried out, or conversely, essential work was omitted.

 

Another potential issue is when contractors were instructed to install sound-absorbing glass wool insulation,
but the wallboards were installed without it.

 

In any type of interior construction, it is often difficult to detect problems after the finishing work is completed.

 

Therefore, we strongly recommend checking the site conditions as much as possible during the construction process.

 

Site monitoring is also important to ensure that the work is not causing inconvenience to neighboring tenants or pedestrians.

 

For instance, if your tenant space is located on the second floor and construction activities block the sidewalk,
it could disturb businesses or residents on the first floor.

 

Special attention should be paid to nearby surroundings during such cases.

 

From a customer relations perspective, the difference is clear between proactively informing neighbors beforehand—such as saying,

“We are about to begin construction and there may be some noise. We apologize for any inconvenience”—

versus simply allowing a noisy construction day to occur without warning, even if prior written notices like flyers were distributed.

 

As contractors, we acknowledge that it may be tedious to coordinate all these matters; however,
professional companies aim to ensure smooth project progress and strive to make efforts accordingly.

At the same time, it is also important for clients to keep in mind that confirming site conditions and communicating concerns proactively helps protect their own interests.

When planning a construction project, we encourage you to voice any concerns or uncertainties openly with your contractor.

This will help ensure that you can achieve a final result you are fully satisfied with.

 

 

 

For further information about proper renovation practices and national guidelines,
please refer to the official guidelines published by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT).

Final Summary

Thank you for reading this article, “For Those Considering a Construction Estimate.”

 

Quick Recap:

• Whether or not the project involves original condition restoration, if you are considering construction work, be sure to request competitive estimates from multiple contractors.
• Conduct thorough meetings and include on-site surveys whenever possible.
• Because the number of workers, material costs, and construction procedures differ by contractor, project costs can vary significantly.
• After construction begins, make an effort to visit the site regularly and maintain communication with the contractors to ensure everything proceeds as planned.

 

At Office Genjoukaifuku Dot.Com, we handle not only original condition restoration work but also full-service interior construction projects.

We welcome consultations and estimates for all types and sizes of projects, such as:

• “We would like to add or remove partition walls and need advice.”
• “We are a facility contractor and require assistance with LGS (light gauge steel) or board work.”

 

 

Whether you are an office or store owner, a construction project manager, or an individual customer,
please feel free to contact us with your questions or inquiries.
We are always happy to assist you!

 

 

※Please note that we provide construction services within Japan only.

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(Click the icons below to visit our Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages.) We look forward to your follows and interactions!

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At Office Genjoukaifuku Dot.Com,
we welcome requests for original condition restoration work and interior decorative finishing work,
for projects of all sizes—from private residences and housing apartments to offices, commercial facilities, hotels, and schools.

For quotation requests or any inquiries, please feel free to contact us at any time!

Address:
4th Floor, Musashiya No.3 Building, 62-10 2-chome, Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 171-0014

👉 Submit your web quotation request here!

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(Related Article: For Those Considering a Construction Estimate)

japan:工事のお見積もりをご検討中の皆様へ

工事のお見積もりをご検討中の皆様へ