After months of research and agonizing over decisions, zoning laws, permits and paperwork, the time has finally come to begin construction on your self storage steel building. It's a prospect that's both exciting and frightening.
However, things immediately start to go wrong. Building materials you request weeks ago don't show up when they're needed. Contractors are calling you, asking when they'll be able to start work. The concrete guy you hired is a week behind schedule, which pushes your own construction back. And to top it off, it rains for two weeks straight, pushing your completion date back some more and costing you more money in delays.
You need help, no doubt about it. You need someone to answer the questions that you can't, somebody to help you get back on track when everything's been thrown out of whack. You try to talk to your steel building supplier, but get no answer. They're just giving you the buildings, they say. The rest is up to you.
You need somebody to lean on
This scenario is why customer service isn't just a nice bonus when constructing self storage buildings; it's absolutely vital. Construction is a hairy process at the best of times. At the worst of times, it can be a complete nightmare. The partnership you form with your steel building supplier lasts long beyond that first check, and you may be relying on them for advice and quick responses to crises as they arise. It can mean the difference between months of frustration and a relatively pleasant experience.
What kind of customer service should you expect?
Your steel building supplier should answer your questions
If you have questions or concerns about the construction process, whether it's about the quality of certain materials or if a particular electrician is offering you a good deal, you should be able to discuss it with your steel building supplier. They've built a whole lot more self storage buildings than you have, so they should know the industry inside and out.
For example, if an electrician is overpricing you, they should be able to give you names of other contractors who can get you a better deal. If you call them up with a frantic question, they should take your call immediately, not tell you that they're "unavailable" and that they'll call you in a couple of days. A supplier that takes the time to properly address your construction questions is invaluable.
Your steel building supplier shouldn’t be a source of trouble
There's a lot that can go wrong with self storage construction. You don't want your steel building supplier to be a part of that "wrong." If you choose the wrong supplier, you'll be looking at construction delays and higher costs, as the supplier is more concerned with ensuring they make a profit than ensuring you have a smooth construction.
A good supplier, on the other hand, will be an ally, not the source of a never-ending migraine. They will be knowledgeable and reliable, so even when things go wrong (as they undoubtedly will), they'll be able to help you see what to do next.
Always get references
Before you settle on any steel building supplier, you should first ask to see a list of their previous clients. Then, you need to contact those clients and see how their construction process went. Was it smooth or rough? Was the supplier helpful, or did they consistently use poor quality steel and have to send materials back because they didn't match the specifications needed? Is the supplier somebody they'd like to work with again?
If you're unable to get a client list from the supplier, say "Thanks, but no thanks." You want somebody who's proud of their previous clients and the jobs they've done. If they decline your request or try to talk you out of it, move along.
A steel building supplier who also provides you with excellent customer service is one of the most important elements of your self storage construction. It can make the difference between self storage construction that's a dream and a construction process that's a nightmare. Pick the right steel building supplier, and you'll have one less thing to worry about.
About the Author:
Darren Newberry is the general manager of American Steel Buildings. No matter what you need for your self storage steel or metal building, be it information, advice or just raw materials, American Steel can help you make your dreams come true. Visit them online today at
http://www.GoSteelGo.com.
“ Thanks, but no thanks. ”
