A building is likely to be one of the largest investments you will ever make. Yet many owners select a contractor on the basis of a low quotation, a recommendation, or a persuasive conversation. Abandoned sites, substandard materials and unexplained cost increases are often the result.
A structured selection process protects you. The following ten questions will help you evaluate any building contractor in Nigeria, including us.
1. Is the company legally registered?
Ask for proof of registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and verify the registration details. A registered company is accountable in a way that an unregistered individual is not. NextGen Structures and Multipurpose Services Ltd is registered with the CAC (RC No. 8019187). You can read more about us.
2. Can I see completed projects?
Ask for photographs, locations and, where possible, permission to visit a completed site or speak to a former client. Review our projects page as an example of the kind of evidence you should expect.
3. Who will design and engineer the building?
Confirm that qualified professionals prepare the architectural and structural drawings. A contractor who builds without proper structural design puts the safety of the building at risk.
4. Will the quotation come with a Bill of Quantities?
A BOQ itemises materials and work. Without one, you cannot compare quotations fairly or identify where a price has been inflated.
5. Who supervises the site, and how often?
Ask who is responsible for daily supervision, how materials are checked, and how progress will be reported to you. Independent project management and supervision is particularly valuable if you do not live near the site.
6. How is payment structured?
Payment should be tied to completed stages, not to the passage of time or to requests for urgent funds. Be cautious of any contractor who requests a large advance payment with no clear stage plan.
7. What does the contract cover?
A written contract should state the scope of work, the price, the payment schedule, the timeline, the materials standard, the warranty or defects period, and what happens if either party defaults. Have a lawyer review it.
8. What is the project timeline?
A credible contractor provides a realistic schedule and explains what could cause delays. Most residential projects take between 6 and 14 months from design to completion, depending on size and scope.
9. How are variations and extra costs handled?
Changes will occasionally be necessary. Agree in advance how they are priced and approved in writing, so that you are never presented with an unexpected invoice.
10. Can the company handle the whole project?
When design, engineering, construction and supervision are carried out by one coordinated team, there are fewer gaps and fewer disputes about responsibility. See the full range of services we offer.
Warning Signs
- A price significantly lower than every other quotation
- Reluctance to provide a written contract or BOQ
- No verifiable past projects
- Pressure to pay quickly
- Vague answers about supervision and materials
Next Steps
Before you sign, compare at least three quotations on the same BOQ and verify each company’s registration and track record. If you would like to discuss your project, request a free consultation or message us on WhatsApp.
Related reading: Cost of Building a Duplex in Nigeria | Building Approval Process in Nigeria