Tips on Running Commercial Tenant Credit Checks

Posted on February 18, 2022 by bafcorp20

In the past, we’ve discussed some effective strategies landlords can rely on to avoid nightmare tenants. One such strategy that deserves a little more attention is commercial tenant credit checking. Running a tenant credit scan is generally one of the last steps in the screening process, but it is no less critical.

Continue reading to learn some valuable tips on running commercial tenant credit checks to better protect yourself against tenancy fraud, unqualified applicants, late payments, and more.

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The Importance of Commercial Tenant Credit Checks

As a commercial landlord, your office building or strip mall is important, as it has a lot of earning potential. Not only do you want your available spaces leased as soon as possible and for as long as possible, but more importantly, you want good, dependable tenants. Commercial tenant credit checks can be the best armory against things like tenant fraud, rental loss, and poor application submissions. In fact, tenant credit scans are designed to specifically avoid and prevent these situations and more.

Tenant Credit Scans Can…

☑ Protect Against Tenant Fraud
☑ Verify Tenant Qualifications
☑ Increase Control for Timely Payments

Tenant credit checks will reveal a lot about an applicant’s payment history and habits, including income, assets, credit lines, financial delinquencies, excessive extensions of credit, defaulted payments, ordered restitution, tax penalties, and more. Basically, a tenant credit scan should tell you enough information to make an informed and secure decision on an applicant’s capabilities to pay their rent on time and without causing any trouble.

Tips for Running a Tenant Credit Scan

▶ Double check your information. When commencing a commercial tenant credit check, it is critical that you get their name and information correct. After all, you would want to ensure that you are running the credit scan on the right person. Avoid entering incorrect data about your applicant by making a copy of their photo identification, which can be a driver’s license, state ID, or passport. With their photo identification in hand, be sure to confirm with them their address, date of birth, and full name.

▶ Use an authorized credit reporting agency. There are thousands of credit scanning websites to choose from, but not all of them are created equal. Be sure you use a certified credit check screening service. Recommended agencies include Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.

▶ Interpret credit report results sensibly. Credit report results can be confusing sometimes, especially if they involve international or legal matters. So, it is encouraged to hire a lawyer to help you understand what you’re looking at. Look for red flags, like financial delinquencies and history of non-payments. If the applicant provided incorrect data with the intention to conceal points on the report that could work against them, this is a red flag that they are not a wise choice as a tenant.

Are you a commercial landlord or tenant who wishes to improve the look, function, and overall success of your business? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 to speak with an expert Indianapolis commercial general contractor about your options for tenant improvement remodeling and more. We serve clients in all industries and throughout all of Central Indiana.

Indianapolis Commercial General Contracting and Design Build Services — Contact Us Today 317-253-0531

The Drawbacks of Painting Over Brick Building Exteriors

Posted on February 15, 2022 by bafcorp20

Are you considering an exterior building remodel for an instant, cost-effective facelift for your business? If so, you are on the right track. Exterior remodels can bring in more traffic, thus having a positive impact on the overall success of a company. But if your building’s façade is brick or masonry, just be sure to avoid paint. Painting over brick can come with all sorts of difficulties and unexpected outcomes.

Continue reading to learn why many commercial general contractors discourage painting over brick exteriors, and how to find a better-looking, budget-friendly alternative.

Exterior Building Remodeling Indianapolis Indiana 317-253-0531

Do Not Paint Over Brick if You Can Avoid It

Although there are some circumstances in which painting over brick can be attractive and worthwhile, when it comes to the outside of a building or structure, paint is not the most compatible material. Not only can painting over exterior brick instantly look unattractive, but it can also cause some serious structural damages to the brick and the edifice as a whole. Furthermore, once you paint over brick, there is no going back.

Let’s take a closer look at the key reasons why you should try to avoid painting over brick when you can…

It Can Look Really Bad

There are very few cases in which painted brick looks good. It can be done, but when it comes to the outside of a building, the end result is usually quite unattractive. A brick building that has been painted over will instantly look bad before the paint even dries. And no matter how many coats are applied, the outcome will look sloppy and half-complete. As mentioned, curb appeal is a very important element to a business’s success when they have a brick-and-mortar of some kind. Whether tenants, employees, clients, customers, or guests, the look and ambience of a building has a direct influence on traffic.

It Cannot Be Undone

The worst part of a bad brick paint job is that it cannot be undone. Once you paint over brick, there is no removing it, cleaning it off, or covering it up. You can try to power wash your building, or even sandblast the brick, but these two practices will only damage the masonry and worsen the appearance. So, if you are choosing this option for your building’s exterior, be sure you have really thought it through. Additionally, once you paint brick, you have entered an obligation to continue having your brick repainted on a regular basis. This can be invasive and expensive. But if you do not repaint brick, it will deteriorate and fade at a rapid rate.

It Can Cause Property Damages

Paint can damage brick. But not just the bricks, also the mortar between them. As a result, brick will begin to exponentially crumble and deteriorate, which can lead to an overall stability issue with the entire building exterior. Also, seasonal freeze-thaw cycles can further deteriorate brick and mortar. After water seeps into the porous material, it freezes into ice during the winter season, causing the brick to expand. When warmer temperatures arise, the water within the porous brick thaw, causing the brick to collapse back on itself. These movements and shifts in the brick can cause extreme damage overtime.

Side Notes About Painting Brick Exteriors

Older brick might have historical value. Traditionally made in a kiln, bricks of this time are harder and can stand up to the damaging outdoor elements. You don’t want to jeopardize the historic value of your brick building by painting over it!

Keep in mind that some types of older bricks are meant to be painted over. Just be sure to use a milk-based or lime whitewash paint for these kinds of bricks.

If your brick is severely damaged but replacing it is not investment-wise, painting might be the best option. Talk to your commercial general contractor to be sure.

If you do want to paint your brick building, be sure to choose a mineral-based paint or a silicate paint that is recommended for brick. These exterior paints are specially designed to be more breathable and last longer in between repainting.

Alternatives to Painting Over Brick

If you are ready for an exterior façade renovation for a brick building, there are some cost-effective and worthwhile alternatives to a paint job. Talk to a licensed and insured commercial general contracting company for professional advice and guidance.

Not sure which commercial contracting company to choose in Indiana for your exterior remodeling or painting needs? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 when you need the most trusted and qualified commercial general contractors for building remodeling and commercial painting in Indianapolis, IN. We serve clients all throughout the state.

3 Easy Options for an Open Concept Office Floor Plan

Posted on February 10, 2022 by bafcorp20

Does your commercial office lack the open-concept floor plan you’ve always wished for, but you aren’t in a position to move locations? Well, you might be happy to know that you don’t always have to move into a new building or lease a new space to get the open layout you so desire. In fact, you may be able to remodel your current office floor plan.

Before getting started, it is important to discuss your office remodeling ideas with a licensed commercial general contractor who can assist you in finding the proper renovation for your particular space. They can let you know if your commercial office space is a good candidate for open floor space renovations, which remodels or renovations are right for your property, and whether your lease includes a tenant improvement allowance.

Continue reading to learn some easy ways to give your existing commercial office space a more open-concept feel, plus who to trust in Central Indiana for superior commercial remodeling and TI work.

Indiana Commercial Office Remodeling 317-253-0531 — Indianapolis IN Commercial Office Remodeling 317-253-0531

Open Concept Tips for Commercial Offices

Looking for an easy and relatively quick way to transform your office into an open-concept floor layout? Perhaps one of these 3 options will suit your commercial remodeling needs!

Non-Load Bearing Walls

A commercial general contractor can point out which walls are load-bearing and which ones are not. The walls that are not load-bearing can be torn down in a strategic and artistic way to add more space to any room. Conjoining rooms by tearing down walls is an invasive remodeling project, but with professional assistance, it is generally easy and organized work.

It is important to use a professional commercial general contracting company in Indianapolis to tear down walls because they can accurately locate and work around gas pipes, electrical wires, load-bearing walls, and more. You want all your work to be up to code with the local municipality as well, which a licensed and certified commercial general contractor can guarantee.

Archways

If you are looking for a more open feel for your commercial office layout, but you dislike the idea of a full-o, invasive remodel, consider making small but stately adjustments, as these can make a big difference in appearance and fee, plus fit the budget nicely. Adding an archway above interior doors provides instant gratification because it gives off an illusion of more space. Additionally beneficial, construction for archways is pretty minimal and requires less drywall work and less labor time.

Accent Walls and Space Division

If construction, drywall work, and remodeling are nowhere near your budget, there are more cost-effective methods for creating the illusion of a more open floor plan for yourself and your staff. A popular, go-to interior design hack is to add an accent wall in certain areas of the office, particularly smaller, confined spaces or small rooms. This creates a feel of difference and division.

On the subject of floor plan division, dividing room space is another cost-effective interior design method that creates the feeling of more space. Try adding crown molding on the walls of one space to separate it from other areas of the office. This is inexpensive and does not take much time to install. All of these options can even be done on your own, which is even more cost-effective.

Are you looking for a qualified commercial general contractor to deliver a functional and appealing interior remodel within your TI allowance or office remodeling budget? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for superior commercial remodeling and tenant improvements in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve clients all throughout the state.

Top 3 Flat Roofing Systems for Commercial Buildings

Posted on February 7, 2022 by bafcorp20

The commercial roofing industry is seeing more and more new materials being introduced to the market, year after year. Some more costly than others, while others more Eco-friendly than some. But regardless of why you might be in the market for a new commercial roof, it is what you are looking for in a new roof that matters. There are three kinds of commercial flat roof materials currently available on the market. Although you will notice they are a bit more expensive than alternative materials, they are undeniably worth the investment in the long run.

Continue reading to learn more about the top 3 flat roofing materials used in the commercial construction industry and who to trust for superior commercial roofing replacement in Indianapolis.

Commercial Roofers Indianapolis Indiana 317-253-0531

Commercial Flat Roofs

The commercial roofing materials for flat roofs are measured in “squares” which is equivalent to 100 square feet. They generally cost anywhere between $250 and $350 per square, but prices can vary depending on the retailer and roof size. Warranties for flat roofs are typically good for 10 or 20 years, but with professional installation and routine maintenance, they can last up to 25 years or more. It is important to choose a reputable Indianapolis commercial general contracting company for dependable flat roof installation and repair services.

Modified Bitumen

Modified bitumen is a single-ply roll commercial roofing material infused with mineral-based exterior. This roofing material is efficient in terms of installation. There are peel-and-stick versions available on the market for those who wish to install their own new roofing, although this is strongly discouraged. There are also commercial ply roofing options that must be installed with professional equipment; a process that involves heat the adhesive as the material is rolled out.

It is a popular choice because its light-colored exterior reflects heat, which reduces energy bills. Also, it is moderately priced, right in between the cost of the other roofing materials. Since the application process is a fire hazard, it should not be installed in an occupied property. One downfall is that it’s not resistant to scuff marks and tears.

Built Up Roof (BUR)

BUR is the common hot-tar and gravel roofing seen on several types of commercial buildings throughout Indianapolis. It is assembled with alternating plies (3 or more) of waterproof materials, hot tar, and ballasted gravel. Today, these commercial roofing materials are manufactured with more advanced materials like fiberglass membranes, when before hot tar paper was the principal component. Although heavy, smelly, and messy to install, BUR can be a promising choice for some property owners and developers.

Not only is it fire-retardant, but it is also the cheapest of all the roofing materials so budgets can stay intact. But it should not be installed in a building that is occupied. This is a perfect choice for those remodeling a commercial property that is still vacant. Keep in mind that it is a big job that requires the services of a professional commercial contractor.

Rubber Membrane

Rubber roofing is an excellent choice for commercial properties in warm climates. It is effectually resistant to sunlight damage and can be installed one of three ways: glued-on, anchored with fasteners, or ballasted with stone. It is highly durable, resistant to scuffs and rips, light in weight, and water leaks are easy to patch. It is on the higher end of the price spectrum, being that it is more expensive than BUR and bitumen, but it is a wise choice for many commercial properties.

Are you wondering if you should upgrade or replace your commercial roofing system? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for licensed and certified commercial general contractor services in Indianapolis Indiana. We serve clients all throughout the state.

BAF Corporation is Voted ‘Best of 2022 Indianapolis’ General Contractors

Posted on February 4, 2022 by bafcorp20

BAF Corporation is proud to announce that we have been given the ‘Best of 2022 Indianapolis” award for general contractors from the Indianapolis Awards Program! Continue below to learn more about the Indianapolis Awards Program, and how BAF Corporation was selected for this prestigious honor this year!

BAF Corporation - 'Best of 2022 Indianapolis' — BAF Corporation – ‘Best of 2022 Indianapolis’

The Annual Indianapolis Awards Program

The Indianapolis Awards Program is an important annual program that spotlights the achievements, contributions, and best practice commitments of local Indy businesses and organizations. Through prominent public recognition and enthusiastic support, the Indianapolis Awards Program rewards businesses and organizations that have demonstrated a significant effort to create programs that deliver economical advantages and lasting value for their staffs, clients, and surrounding communities. Specially, they assert:

“Each year, the Indianapolis Award Program identifies companies that we believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and our community. These exceptional companies help make the Indianapolis area a great place to live, work and play.

The Indianapolis Award Program was established to recognize the best of local businesses in our community. (…) Our mission is to recognize the small business community’s contributions to the U.S. economy.”
The Indianapolis awards program

Here at BAF Corporation, we are so honored and proud to be the recipient of this special award under the General Contractors category!

A Family Owned General Contracting Business Devoted to the Indy Communities

At BAF Corporation, we are a local, family owned and operated commercial general contracting company founded on old-fashioned values of integrity, quality, and respect. Since 1997, we have been committed to the highest standards of excellence, aiming to set the bar higher in the building and construction industry. As is our fervent creed to deliver unparalleled service, so is our desire to make our community a priority.

Impact 100 Indianapolis Indiana — Impact 100 Greater Indianapolis

We have been active members of Impact 100 Greater Indianapolis for many years, which is an esteemed charitable women’s philanthropic committee devoted to granting high impact donations and contributions to nonprofit organizations and initiatives within our community, with a special focus on education, family, arts, environment and animal welfare, culture and preservation, and health and wellness. BAF Corporation owner and President, Barb Fleming, was once the President of the Board.

She also used to serve as the owner’s representative for Girls Inc. and is currently a board member of Outside the Box, which is an Indianapolis-based organization that works with young adults with developmental disabilities.

In the past, BAF Corporation has enjoyed working with the Village of Merici, a revered Fort Ben neighborhood for adults with developmental disabilities, and the Dove Recovery House, a rehabilitation program for women recovering from addiction.

Our Professional Achievements

In 2018, Owner and President, Barb Fleming, was featured in Indianapolis Business Journal in the 2018 Women of Influence segment. This article spotlighted her achievements as a successful, self-made Indiana businesswoman, describing how she founded a commercial construction company that has shown exponential growth since inception in 1997. Additionally, we are a Certified Minority and Women’s Minority Business Enterprise (WBE) Company with the city of Indianapolis and the state of Indiana.

BAF Corporation Commercial Construction Contractors Indianapolis

Learn More About Our Commercial General Contracting Services

Here at BAF Corporation, our mission is simple: to deliver superior general contracting and construction services for commercial and industrial clients in Central Indiana. All aspects of our company, from the staff we hire to our internal safety codes, systems, and procedures, have been carefully selected and developed to meet the specific needs of our clients and the surrounding communities.

If you are looking for a trusted and respectable commercial general contracting company to perform your business remodeling or real estate development projects in Indiana, we can make your vision a reality. Contact us at 317-253-0531 to learn more about our commercial and industrial general contracting and construction management services in Indianapolis, Indiana, today.

Important Repairs to Make Before Listing Your Commercial Office Space

Posted on February 1, 2022 by bafcorp20

There is really no limit to the number of repairs you can make to your commercial office space for the purpose of increasing its appeal to potential tenants. However, making all of these renovations is not realistic, nor is it in the budget. Instead, it is wiser to pick and choose the most effective repairs you make to maximize your cost-savings and return on investment.

Continue reading to learn the recommended major and minor repairs to consider before officially listing your commercial office space on the real estate market.

Commercial Office Renovations Indianapolis Indiana 317-253-0531

Minor Repairs for Commercial Spaces

Turn-Key is the Goal

Commercial tenants are almost always looking for a turn-key property. If they aren’t, they are still always impressed by a freshly renovated and refreshed office space. For these reasons, repairing minor drywall damage and repainting your commercial office space are fantastic and profitable investments. Such renovations will make your commercial property more appealing to potential tenants.

Interior Paint Colors

When choosing paint colors, be sure to stick with neutrals, like beige, taupe, tan, and gray. These colors are more inviting and open up small spaces, but also allow potential tenants to imagine their personal touch. Furthermore, neutral colors are more calming for staff, which can improve employee contentment, and ultimately, employee productivity. All of these benefits are appealing for business owners looking for new commercial office space.

Fixtures and Focal Points

It is important to address any opportunity for improvement when it comes to the hardware, fixtures, and focal points of your commercial space. Floors and carpeting are often the first thing people see when they check out a new rental space. Steam cleaning all carpets and buffing or waxing the floors are excellent and effective strategies to enhance the appeal of a listed property.

Additionally, consider replacing or upgrading hardware on cabinets, plumbing fixtures, light fixtures (both interior and exterior), outlet covers, and intercoms. These small modifications can have a significant and lasting impression on a potential commercial tenant.

Exterior Building Care

As soon as a potential tenant approaches your building or office space, they will form an opinion before entering through the doors. Curb appeal plays an important role in attracting new commercial tenants. Consider exterior renovations like power washing the siding, exterior, and localized pavements, as well as a fresh exterior paint job, landscaping additions, and perhaps even new signage.

Major Renovations for Commercial Spaces

When it comes to selecting the most important or profitable major commercial office renovations, it is best to consult a commercial general contracting company in Indiana for an accurate assessment of your property. Safety is the number one concern, followed by liability and investment protection. This means it is important to fix anything that can jeopardize these areas in the short or long run.

Examples include roof repairs, siding repairs, plumbing repairs, crawl space and attic repairs, foundation repairs, and water leaks. Additional areas to examine when it comes to major commercial building repairs and renovations include security installations, fire suppression systems, touchless technology, electric gates, parking lots, parking garages, fencing, patios, underground pools, lawn drainage, container service, and wildlife control.

Professional Commercial Office Remodeling and Renovations

Once you decide which repairs are most important to your property, it is time to hire a professional Indianapolis commercial general contractor for all your commercial construction and facility maintenance needs. Be sure to choose a licensed and insured commercial remodeling company with sufficient experience in the building and construction industry. They should have the knowledge, skills, and resources to undertake your commercial renovations, plus complete the job in a time frame that is convenient for you.

Are you ready to spruce up your commercial space and attract new tenants? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for superior commercial office construction in Indianapolis, Indiana. We work with clients all throughout the state.

Top Building Remodels That Will Entice New Commercial Tenants

Posted on January 28, 2022 by bafcorp20

When you own a multi-unit commercial building, tenancy is critical to your bottom line. The goal, after all, is to acquire and maintain full occupancy, year-round. If you are struggling to keep commercial tenants, some fresh and trending building features may help to attract new ones, even better ones.

Continue below to explore some of the most effective building remodels and additions to consider if you are trying to lure in new commercial tenants, plus who to trust in Central Indiana for superior commercial remodeling work.

Corporate Remodeling Indianapolis IN 317-253-0531

How to Attract New Commercial Tenants Through Building Renovation

Your building is great, but it can be better. This day and age, there are many different approaches to designing the modern office, warehouse, and more. Some of the most revered and proven building features sought out by commercial tenants include on-site fitness centers and spas, snack and dining options, outdoor spaces, natural lighting, wireless coverage, and when applicable, elevators.

On-Site Fitness Centers

It is suggested by many industry authorities that commercial tenants are more drawn toward leases that include access to a gym, fitness center, or health spa. Many people work out, while many others enjoy wellness experiences like saunas and tanning beds. By offering these or similar amenities, you may be able to attract a much larger pool of potential commercial tenants.

Dining Options

Providing easy access to snacks, refreshments, and food is a great way to entice new commercial tenants to sign a lease. Consider adding break rooms or small kitchenette areas within your commercial spaces, or building a whole food court, café, or cafeteria. Vending machines for beverages, coffee, lattes, espressos, and snacks are also enticing.

Outdoor Areas to Work and Gather

No one likes to be stuck inside an office or building all day, especially when it is really nice outside. It is proven that employees are more productive when they can access outdoor areas for work, breaks, meetings, collaborations, and more. This is enticing to business owners looking for a commercial space to lease.

Natural Lighting

Although a dimly-lit space can look cozy and romantic, it is not a compatible ambience for a team of working employees. Natural lighting provides healthy, bright light that is not distracting for employees and guests. You can achieve this by installing larger windows, skylights, and a more innovative interior lighting system.

Wireless Coverage

If you have a particularly large commercial building, the wireless coverage may be spotty in some areas. Tenants have complained about no reception and dropped calls while walking from one location of the building to the next. You can prevent or resolve this problem by installing a distributed antenna system (DAS), which can improve your wireless coverage throughout the building.

Elevators

If your commercial building is only one level, this feature isn’t for you. But for commercial-use buildings with more than one floor or level, one or more elevators is extremely attractive to tenants. For larger buildings with multiple levels and higher occupancy, adding in an adequate number of elevators can improve time efficiency for employees, visitors, and clients.

Are you looking for superior commercial remodeling in Indy, but you are not sure where to begin? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for superior commercial office construction in Indianapolis, Indiana. We work with clients all throughout the state.

Facts About Commercial Contractor Accident Liability

Posted on January 25, 2022 by bafcorp20

Whether you are a landlord, building owner, or commercial real estate developer, it is important for you to understand commercial construction accident liability in the case that an unfortunate incident ever occurs during one of your appointed projects.

Continue reading to learn some important facts about commercial contractor accident liability, plus who to trust in Central Indiana for safe and superior commercial general contracting and construction services.

Construction Contractor Indianapolis Indiana 317-253-0531

Construction Safety Standards

When you are searching for construction companies in Indianapolis, it is important to keep a priority list on hand to ensure you are choosing the right commercial contractor for your project. A well-established and skilled commercial construction company will have the best internal safety codes, workmanship standards, industry acumen, and most importantly, sufficient insurance coverage, all of which protects all contributing and involved parties from accident liability and potential lawsuits. Essentially, hiring a trusted and experienced commercial construction and general contracting company is the secret to protecting yourself from any sort of problems with your project.

Contractor and Client Liability

In the case of an accident on the job site, whether bodily injury or property damage, it can be unclear as to who the liable party is. Let’s say a contractor falls off his ladder and breaks their legs. Is the contractor or client responsible for the subsequent hospital bills and related losses? Perhaps your builder accidentally drops a wrench and breaks your car windshield. Who is liable for the auto repairs? Maybe a subcontractor hired by the primary contractor is injured on the job. Who is liable then?

Here is what you need to know:

No matter if it was your contractor who suffered losses or yourself as the client, it is best if both parties are insured for such occurrences. However, most insurance policies do not fully cover serious injuries or property damages. So, it may be worth your time to research gap insurance coverage options.

Here is what you need to do:

Before moving forward with any type of construction work, check your insurance coverage. Identify details regarding injuries on your property. Be sure your commercial contractor is licensed and insured. You can request to see proof of their general contractor liability insurance, which they should have.

Their insurance policy should cover property damage, bodily injury, workers’ compensation, and any type of accident that involves the contractor’s equipment, like ladders and machinery. All hired subcontractors should be held to this same standard.

Are you looking for a trusted and respectable commercial general contracting company to perform your business remodeling or real estate development projects in Indiana? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for superior commercial construction services in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties.

Important Information About Forklift Safety

Posted on January 21, 2022 by bafcorp20

Whether in a big box store or a construction zone, forklifts are common machines used to lift heavy items, palettes, materials, and more. But without proper training, knowledge, and discipline, operating a forklift can be very dangerous, to both the operator and surrounding peers. Since there are various vocations and job positions that require forklift knowledge and operation, it is a standard certification sought out within the workforce.

If you work with forklifts regularly, or have a staff under your supervision who does, it is vital to ensure that the proper, industry-standard forklift operation safety practices are upheld at all times to prevent serious accidents and injuries.Continue reading to review the top safety tips you should know and practice when operating a forklift; then share this knowledge with your fellow teams.

Indianapolis Commercial General Contractor 317-253-0531

Top Forklift Safety Tips

Forklift Safety Training

The most fundamental safety tip for operating a forklift is to have the proper training and certification. Anyone who has not undergone official forklift safety training should not be permitted to operate a forklift under any circumstances. Whether gas, electric, 3-wheeled, or rough-terrain, forklifts are serious machinery, and they require acute knowledge on operation and safety. We recommend to visit Forkliftlicenseguide.com for details on earning your forklift certification in Indiana.

Forklift Inspections

Forklifts, like all pieces of powered machinery, require regular inspections and routine maintenance in order to ensure they are in good condition. Aside from regular inspections, forklift operators should make it a habit to always perform a brief assessment of the machine before each use. Check the brakes, steering, lights, signals, tires, and more, to determine if the forklift is ready or not.

Forklift Operation

When operating a forklift, there are several safety rules to adhere to. Some of the most important are the ones that are often overlooked. For instance, always be sure to maintain a safe speed when driving a forklift. Although they seem slow, it is easy to lose control in a small space. Additionally, it is important to wear the proper gear and clothing when operating a forklift, including eye goggles, work boots, hard hats, reflective vests, and more.

Forklift Load

If a load is not fully-secured or stable, it can cause a wide range of serious accidents and injuries. Can you imagine if a palate of timber fell on top of someone? So, it is vital to ensure that all cargo is secured and balanced on the forklift before operating it further. Check on the weight distribution and levelness to avoid topping, falls, spills, and more.

Are you looking for professional commercial builders in your area? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for superior commercial general contracting services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and industrial clients all throughout the state.

What to Do if You are Dealing With a Contractor Dispute

Posted on January 18, 2022 by bafcorp20

Did you know that you can get help from the local and state licensing authorities if you are having a dispute with your hired general contractor? Continue below for some tips that can help you resolve a contractor dispute that has yet to resolve itself.

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How to Solve a Contractor Dispute

In many cases of contractor disputes, the situation can be quite challenging, whether you are coming from a commercial or residential standpoint. Fortunately, there are some helpful courses available to clients of contractors when such disputes do arise. One such solution is contacting the local and state licensing authority.

These regulating authorities can be your secret weapon against an immoral, unethical, or stubborn general contractor. They can help you save a lot of time and money attempting to resolve the contractor dispute on your own, plus protect you against a lengthy and stressful civil lawsuit.

What You Should Expect From a Licensed Contractor

You see, virtually all contractors are subject to mandatory local and state licensing requirements; some more than others, though. Contractors like electricians and master plumbers have very strict licensing requirements. Unfortunately, general contractor licensing requirements are more lenient.

Nonetheless, such requirements obligate contractors to demonstrate a certain duty of care when undertaking work for paid clients. Being “licensed” comes with a specific set of professional expectations, and although this standard can vary slightly among jurisdictions, it generally means that a contractor:

✏ Retains Knowledge and Training
✏ Has Some Experience
✏ Passed a Certified Examination
✏ Stays Current on Code Changes

It is also important to note that being registered in the state is not the same as being licensed. Be sure to look for this when hiring a general contractor.

Licensing Violations Versus Remodeling Contract Violations

Keep in mind that not all general contractor disputes are based on professional licensing violations. Some can be categorized under a remodeling contract breech, which is a dispute not regularly handled by licensing authorities.

For instance, let’s say you hire a general contractor to add a half-bathroom in your basement. If they say the project should take around 3 weeks, but it ends up taking 3 months, this would be a breech of the remodeling contract, not their licensing requirements. This would require a lawsuit or even a bond to resolve.

Oppositely, if your contractor adds a new bathroom to your basement, but does not do so up to code, this could be considered a violation of their licensing requirements. In such case, your state or local licensing agency might help you recover some justice.

Reporting a Contractor Dispute

Visit your local county, town, or state government website to learn which regulating authorities oversee your particular contractor. You will be able to see which types of work your county or town licenses. Upon investigation, which tends to happen quickly, the licensing agency may choose to discipline the wrongful contractor.

There are a few ways they might do this, including heavy fines, restitution, refunds to clients, license suspensions, and in really egregious situations, license revocations. They may also be kicked out of any professional organization or membership they have within their industry. As for the clients, the residing licensing authority may be able to recover additional compensation, aside from refunds, to make up for financial damages and losses.

Are you looking for a professional commercial contractor in Indiana that you can trust for the highest level of excellence in the industry? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for superior commercial general contracting services in Indianapolis, Indiana.We serve commercial and industrial clients all throughout the state.