In our last post, we mentioned seeking professional assistance to know when a new church design requires a building permit. However, not all professionals are the same. Church building is a significant undertaking, and attempting to cut costs with underqualified contractors, for example, can lead to disastrous consequences. Here are some essential warning signs to watch out for when hiring professionals, as well as a tale about what can happen when the wrong contractor gets involved.
The Importance of Checking References and Experience
When selecting a church building professional, it’s vital to check references thoroughly and ensure that the contractor has extensive experience. A common mistake is to be swayed by low budget promises. If a builder quotes an unusually low price, be cautious—it may be a sign of inexperience, cutting corners, overlooking critical details or making a misrepresentation to secure a job.
Hiring an experienced professional might seem like a more significant investment upfront, but it will ultimately save your church from unexpected costs and structural issues down the line. We recommend that church leaders verify that the builder has a track record of successful church projects completed on time and within budget.
Why Church Building Experience Matters
Not all contractors are equipped to handle the unique challenges of church design and construction. A church building requires special consideration in terms of function, attractiveness, and safety standards. General construction experience, such as with residential or industrial contractors, may not translate well into church projects.
Ensure that the professionals you hire have completed multiple church projects and understand the function of the church, specific structural and aesthetic elements necessary for church buildings. Ask for examples of past church projects, as well as references who can speak to the contractor’s expertise.
A Cautionary Tale: What Happens with An Inexperienced Professional
While The McKnight Group prefers to use a design/build approach to an entire church project, we sometimes work with other contractors who are responsible for construction. In one situation, there was a church being converted from an old department store and a local contractor was doing the building.
In the aged store structure was an exterior wall where its inner framework had been covered with drywall for over 50 years. The exact way the wall was built wasn’t obvious because of the drywall covering.
When it was removed, the contractor discovered red steel rods supporting the wall, including two diagonal braces (shown by dotted lines in the picture at right.) These braces were essential and were placed to protect the building from collapse during events like earthquakes, tornadoes, or high winds.
Shockingly, instead of consulting anyone about the supports, the contractor removed them and tossed the steel rods into the trash. Their decision put the entire structure at risk of collapse and was emblematic of their lack of experience and understanding of the church remodeling process. Fortunately, the error was identified in time, and repairs were made. However, this incident serves as a reminder of the risks involved when an inexperienced professional gets involved in a project outside their ability and knowledge.
Sharing Insights
The McKnight Group’s 50-plus year history of church building and design is a deep resource for church leaders. We can help, either by contacting us or signing up for our free i3 webinars, where we present the latest information on church design trends. Our 2025 webinar list will be announced soon on our website, where you’ll also find additional resources to guide your church building journey.