what makes a good construction client?

Have you worked for a bad client? Perhaps they paid you late, or not at all? Maybe they expected you to do extra work for free? Unfortunately there are some clients who you should never work for. They will cost you time and money, and perhaps even damage your reputation.

No matter how desperate you are for work do not be tempted to do a construction project with a bad client. Always research your clients before pricing a project. Know who your client is.
​#constructionprojects

What makes a good construction client?

A good client is one that:

• pays on time
• pays in full
• acknowledges when they have made changes or caused delays and is fair in the way they assess the impacts of these changes
• responds timeously to requests for information
• appoints a knowledgeable and competent project team
• has additional work or projects
• knows what they want and articulates it clearly 
• monitors quality in a consistent manner as the project proceeds and gives clear direction as to what is expected
• adjudicates prices and quotations fairly, awarding construction projects not based solely on price, but rather on the competence of the contractor
• is well prepared, providing access, information, permits, services, utilities and client provided materials on time
• is not involved in illegal activities
• provides clear and complete information for tender purposes
• is prepared to work with the contractor to solve problems

"Utilizing the practical applications in this book would make for a better construction industry. Thanks for sharing what you have learned." Reader review on Amazon

Information in this article is from 'Building a Successful Construction Company: The Practical Guide' by Paul Netscher. Available from Amazon and other online stores.

---

Other useful articles
Your tender submission or quotation – Get it right
Steps to help you win your next construction project
Asking questions in the bidding process ​

Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
Visit to read more.
The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon.
© 2022 This article is not to be reproduced for commercial purposes without written permission from the author.