How Are Contractors Handling Supply Chain Issues?
As a consumer, you’ve probably seen some empty store shelves over the past few years and heard stories from friends and family about how their neighbor in Lloyd Harbor had to wait 6 months for their new kitchen appliances.
So when a factory shutdown in Shenzhen results in supply chain shortages around the world, how does a contractor in Manhasset handle it? For any reputable contractor it all starts with transparency and communication. Many contractors learned the hard way on a prior project just how significant the wait times can be for materials over the past few years. They shouldn’t be afraid to share the lessons they’ve learned with prospective clients. An educated client can make properly informed decisions, a major key to dealing with supply chain issues as a service provider. Additionally, if unexpected supply shortages strike, the contractor should inform the client immediately, so that they’ll have an opportunity to potentially select different items to keep the project moving.
A contractor should prepare their clients for the possibility of delays, and advise them of what they can do to mitigate them. For example, homeowners should be very sure of their selections when they provide them to their contractor; changes of heart cause delays during the best of times and the effect on timelines is that much greater in the current market. A contractor may be able to advise homeowners of alternative items that are in stock locally, rather than what is awaiting delivery. If a comparable item that the homeowner finds acceptable is available, this is a way to avoid some delay. Homeowners may have to make these decisions quickly to avoid items going out of stock while they make up their minds.
It's also imperative for contractors to track their orders and stay on top of their vendors, paying much closer attention to daily supply fluctuations. It’s a good sign when a contractor can tell you that they have regular communication with their vendors.
Finally, the best contractors also take into account the human side of the project. They’re often just as frustrated as their clients that things are held up by supply chain issues. When the opportunity presents itself, they can shift the client’s focus (and their own) to decisions and action items that are currently achievable and within their control. This helps everyone feel like progress is still being made, even if the supply chain has stalled some parts of the project.