Residential Construction Vs Commercial Construction: What’s the Difference?

Greater Pacific Construction - Residential Construction Vs Commercial Construction: What's the Difference?

It might be easy to think that when you want something built, you might be prone to say it’s a general construction. However, there are gray areas and would be better for you to understand the difference between a residential construction against a commercial construction.

When looking to build your property, it is best to identify the use or purpose of what you want to build.

A residential construction is defined as something that is built for the purpose of dwelling. It can be ground surfaced such as single- or semi-detached houses, row houses, etc. or non-ground based (condominiums, apartment buildings, etc).

A commercial construction is all other types of projects such as schools, skyscrapers for offices, public structures, malls, and others that are meant for commercial purposes.

It is essential for you to know the difference between the two for funding or loan reason. Most importantly, you can choose to work with a contractor based on expertise. In Orange County, you can count on Greater Pacific Construction that has the ability to complete and deliver projects for both residential and commercial constructions to the satisfaction of clients.

Residential projects normally involve the direct liaison between the general contractor and client. They both agree on the scope of work, design, and completion time of the project.

Commercial construction takes a much larger scope and needs different capabilities or expertise to implement than residential projects. Workers on this type of project need to be able to adapt to a multi-task environment and equipped with special skills. It is funded by the client/company through bank financing, by a government agency, or by the owner or developer.

Residential construction, meanwhile, has a much lower level of requirements in terms of project size compared with commercial construction. This project type could range from new build, an add-on or improvement home feature, or a renovation. The residential construction’s scope may be smaller but does not mean the need for professional experience and skill to complete the job is less. Expertise and reliability of the general contractor is still a must just like Greater Pacific Construction.

Both residential and commercial constructions are run by project managers alongside engineers and architects to ensure completion.

In both types of projects, a single general contractor with a complete team is enough to deliver on time. It is fairly common in the construction industry that sub-contractors are performing some aspects of the projects especially if the skills required are highly technical.

As a client, it is best that you check on the status of a contractor and their license before you hire them for either a residential or commercial project. You have the right and responsibility to be diligent in contracting anyone to do an important project with you. Always consider a general contractor that is licensed and in good standing. You may also check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there are any records of complaints filed against a specific contractor. If your project is in Orange County, you might want to see the project history and clients’ testimonials for consideration.

You and your contractor should clearly understand the differences between a commercial and residential project. Apart from the scope of project, each entails different types of permits and must be handled properly with the correct city agency. A contractor that tries to cut corners and not follow proper procedures will cost you more because of penalties and fees.

Consult Greater Pacific Construction if you have either a residential or commercial construction project. We take great pride in our work and consistently provide excellent, high-quality work at a reasonable price, along with uncompromising standards of safety and outstanding customer service. Greater Pacific offers services across Orange County, namely Tustin, Irvine, Newport Beach, Orange County, Laguna Beach, Laguna Niguel, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente and Dana Point. Call us at (949) 749-5250 or fill out our contact form for more information.

Licensed General Contractor

Licensed General Contractor