Choosing a reliable steel building contractor is a difficult task, especially when we’re surrounded by companies all claiming to be ‘the best’. As with anything else in life we generally get what we pay for, so it’s wise to make a selection based on more than just cost.
Of course, safety is paramount so one of the most important things to check is that the building is designed to Eurocode EN1993-1-3:2006 (or EC3 for short) which supersedes BS 6399 and also that it meets building regulations for the intended use.
Ask for engineer’s drawings and design reports to check the building has been designed to take account of your site’s wind speeds and snow loadings. Many business owners have been left counting the cost when their steel buildings have collapsed under the weight of snow during the severe winters of the last 2 years!
It’s also important to make sure you compare ‘like with like’. Some steel building companies quote cheap prices to get buyers hooked and then add a list of hidden ‘extras’ at the last minute to make the project viable. Always ask for a detailed quotation so you can see exactly what’s included in the price and that includes the provision of the plant and equipment needed to assemble the building!
A valuable gauge as to the quality of the work you can expect is to ask to see testimonials from recent customers. Steel companies with a good reputation will be happy to arrange for you to visit existing buildings, without feeling the need to accompany you (but with the building owner’s permission of course).
Look out for contractors with health & safety accreditations so you can be sure your building will be erected competently and safely – CHAS and SAFEcontractor accredited contractors have to meet stringent health & safety standards, so it’s always a good idea to look out for this when making your buying decision. Remember : the Corporate Manslaughter & Corporate Homicide Act 2007 holds company directors responsible if things go seriously wrong, so it’s really not worth taking a chance!
Miracle Span Steel Buildings are members of The Steel Construction Institute, CHAS & SAFEcontractor accredited and have over 30 years experience in the supply of steel buildings in the UK. Contact Miracle Span on 01507 358974, or visit their website www.miracle-span.com.
Tags: Prefabricated Steel Buildings, Steel building contractors, Steel Buildings
