Final Considerations Before Building Modular Barn or Storage Building

Ok, you have done your homework, located a dealer, you know what type of building and extras you want.  You also took the time to research and chose the perfect site for your barn or storage building now you need to prepare the building site and have the building delivered. But, before you do here are some important considerations.

Have a site plan. This is actually a very important step. The site plan should show the location of buildings, trees, where driveways or access will go, where drainage will run. This will also help you be sure of any zoning rules or restrictions. All site-plan designs must adhere to local or town regulations and be brought before zoning-approval boards to be used in the permitting process.

There are two sets of costs in a project like this the “Fixed cost” and the “Variable Costs”. The modular barn or shed you ordered is a fixed cost, you know what you are getting for how much.  Your building site is a variable cost meaning that excavation, tree removal, accesses are all costs that will vary from site to site and all add to your overall project cost. It is highly recommended that you get an idea of what these costs will be before you order your barn or shed in case adjustments have to be made either to your choice of site or building.

You have the barn or shed, you have the site plans and permits so now it is time to “drop the blade” as they say. Excavation and tree and stump removal can be expensive so it is important again that you have your site plan and that the contractor knows exactly what you need. When choosing a contractor make sure they are licensed and insured, be sure they have experience with your type of project and terrain. Many times the contractors will need to work with the building dealer and through the permit process so be sure to ask questions and get recommendations.

Insurance, I know it is not a pleasant subject check with your liability insurance to be sure your coverage is adequate for this type of project. This might seem unnecessary but if you have a larger project it could be a lot less expensive than a law suit. Like it or not construction liability insurance is something you need to consider very strongly. Your homeowner insurance provider can help you find the right coverage.

 It is also important to be sure that the subcontractors you are using also have the proper insurance and be sure to get copies of their insurance certificates. Be aware that contractors and subcontractors will need to pass this cost onto you, the consumer.

Another concern to consider is workers who do shoddy or incomplete work, or worse, they simply stop showing up. It is very important to have a contract with all the contractors and subcontractors involved and to be sure that the contract states a clear finish date or time of competition.  

With these concerns meet you will someday be able to stand back and look at your new barn with pride and the knowledge that the project was done right and will give you many years of service.