Summer is often seen as the ideal time to break ground on a new construction project. With longer daylight hours, generally favorable weather conditions, and more predictable schedules, it’s no wonder many owners choose this season to get started. But just because it’s a popular time doesn’t mean it’s without its challenges. At Benson-Orth General Contractors, we’ve seen firsthand how proactive planning can make or break a summer build.
Here’s what every owner should know before diving into a summer construction project—and how to set your build up for success.
1. Plan Ahead—Way Ahead
Summer is the busiest season for contractors, municipalities, and suppliers alike. Permitting timelines may stretch longer than expected, materials can become scarce, and subcontractors often book out months in advance. Starting with a realistic timeline—and locking in your team early—is critical.
2. Watch the Weather
Summer may be better than winter, but it’s far from weatherproof. In Minnesota and beyond, intense storms, humidity, or extreme heat can create delays or safety concerns. Incorporate buffer time into your schedule to account for unexpected conditions and ensure your contractor has a weather mitigation strategy.
3. Budget for Escalations
Material costs tend to spike during peak season, and demand-driven inflation is real. Make sure your contractor is transparent about potential price fluctuations and includes contingency planning in your budget. Clear communication around procurement timelines can help you stay ahead of rising costs.
4. Understand Site Logistics
Increased neighborhood activity, limited access due to summer events, or road construction can complicate site coordination. Summer projects in commercial or urban areas especially need detailed staging and traffic flow plans to stay on track.
5. Staffing and Scheduling Constraints
Crews may be balancing multiple jobs, vacations, and limited availability. Ask your general contractor how they manage project supervision, daily oversight, and quality control when working across multiple builds.
6. Compliance and Inspections
City inspectors and approval teams can be backlogged during the summer rush. Owners should work closely with their contractor to navigate inspection timing and make sure all documentation is handled early and correctly.
Summer Build Prep Checklist for Owners
Before your project kicks off, review this checklist to avoid the most common seasonal setbacks:
- Permits Secured: Have all necessary building permits been approved?
- Project Timeline Finalized: Is there a clear, agreed-upon schedule with built-in flexibility?
- Contractor Locked In: Has your general contractor confirmed start dates and subcontractor availability?
- Budget Includes Contingency: Is there a financial cushion for material or labor escalations?
- Material Orders Placed: Have long-lead items been ordered early?
- Weather Plan in Place: Does your GC have a weather delay and safety protocol?
- Site Access Assessed: Have logistics and delivery routes been confirmed?
- Communication Protocol Established: Are regular owner–contractor check-ins scheduled?
- Inspection Calendar Outlined: Have potential city inspection delays been factored in?
- Insurance Coverage Reviewed: Is your builder’s risk insurance updated and adequate?
At Benson-Orth, we believe the best projects are built on preparation. Whether you’re building retail, hospitality, industrial, or multi-family developments, a summer build can be a huge opportunity—when done right. Reach out to our team early to ensure your plans are on solid ground from day one.
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