[hardscaping4u]

for the install guys, especially those who do pavers/retaining walls-

how do you go about obtaining commercial work? what do you use to generate commercial leads? how difficult is the bid process? what should i be aware of before bidding/entering into a contract?

[Bill Schwab]

You need to have 60 days total operating costs either in a bank account or available on a revolving line of credit BEFORE you bid commercial work. It's better if you have 180 days, but with 60, assuming your GC is honest and will pay on the 25th day of the month. That way you can pay your companies bills while becomming the GC's personal banker.

If you can't do those things, I would advise you to not entertain moving commercial until you can, or at least get a GC who can pay you every week or 14 days weather his draw has been processed or not..

As far a propogation of leads, I always found cold calling and providing company resumes got us on most bid lists. However, after waiting 8 months to collect a 30,000 debt one time, and recieving not one single extra dime for my interest, burden and aggravation, I opted out of playing bank to commercial contractors. It's a good nitche, if you can afford to play bank.

I know others will have different perspectives on this, so read on as they post and make an informed decision.

[RHayden]

As Bill said, have plenty of operating cash on hand. Most GC's do not understand the term "down payment". Learned this the hard way as we waited 18 months one time for a 45k payment as the GC went thru flirting with bankruptcy. Our attorney made good money on that one. We completed a retaining wall in November and we won't see payment till mid Feb.

First thing I do when preparing to bid on a commercial project is go to our suppliers with material lists in hand and tell them I need net 60 or even net 90 on that particular order. I've never failed to get 60 and most of the time can get 90 if its a large project.

Commercial bidding is usually very competitive. Make sure you know your numbers and be prepared to sharpen your pencil. Make sure your schedule is flexible as they will expect you to be there when THEY need you.

As far as finding the work, make some personal contacts with the various GC's in your area and let them know you are available. Watch the public notice section of the papers. Stop in and ask around when you see a new building going up. Check your state's website and see if they have a letting section; particularly under the DOT section.