Hiring the right construction company in Nigeria can make or break your building project. Whether you are constructing a residential home, an office building, or a commercial property, the stakes are high. A wrong choice could lead to cost overruns, delays, and even legal disputes. That’s why asking the right questions before signing any contract is essential.
This guide covers 10 key questions every property owner or investor should ask before hiring a construction company in Nigeria. These questions will help you ensure you’re working with a reputable, competent, and reliable partner.
For more insights, check out our detailed guide on Everything You Need to Know About Hiring a Construction & Project Management Company in Lagos.
1. Are You Registered and Licensed to Operate in Nigeria?
The first and most crucial question: Is the company legally recognized?
A reputable construction company should have:
Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration
Relevant industry certifications
Tax Identification Number (TIN)
A licensed company gives you legal recourse in case of disputes. Avoid companies that cannot provide these documents.
2. What Is Your Track Record in Similar Projects?
Experience matters. Ask for:
A portfolio of completed projects
References from past clients
Case studies, especially for projects in Lagos Island, Lagos Mainland, or Abuja
For instance, if you’re building in Lekki or Ikoyi, you want a company familiar with the unique regulations and soil conditions in those areas.
3. Do You Provide a Detailed Bill of Quantities (BOQ)?
A BOQ outlines all materials, labor costs, and timelines. Without it, you risk:
Hidden costs
Poor budgeting
Quality compromises
Insist on a transparent, itemized BOQ before making any payment.
4. Who Will Handle Project Management?
Construction success depends on effective project management. Ask:
Will there be a dedicated project manager?
How often will you get updates?
Will they use project management tools for accountability?
Having a clear communication structure prevents misunderstandings and delays.
5. Do You Offer Written Contracts and Warranties?
Never rely on verbal agreements. A written contract should include:
Scope of work
Payment structure
Project timeline
Warranty terms
Warranties protect you against construction defects after completion.
6. How Do You Ensure Quality Control?
Quality determines the safety and longevity of your building. Find out:
What standards do they follow? (e.g., SON – Standards Organisation of Nigeria)
How often do they conduct site inspections?
Do they use certified engineers and skilled artisans?
You can also request to visit a current project site for verification.
7. How Do You Handle Delays and Unexpected Issues?
Delays happen due to weather, material shortages, or labor issues. Ask:
What’s your contingency plan?
Do you include penalty clauses for delays?
How do you manage risk?
A company with clear protocols demonstrates professionalism.
8. What Are Your Payment Terms?
Payment terms should be clear and fair. Avoid companies that:
Demand full payment upfront
Have vague milestones
A good structure is mobilization + milestone-based payments tied to measurable progress.
9. Do You Have Insurance Coverage?
Construction comes with risks. Verify:
Do they have liability insurance?
Are workers covered by health and safety insurance?
Will you be protected from claims in case of site accidents?
Insurance is a must-have for peace of mind.
10. Can You Provide References and Testimonials?
Finally, ask for client testimonials and references you can speak with. Genuine feedback reveals:
Professionalism
Timeliness
Quality of work
You can also check Google reviews and platforms like Nigerian Institute of Building for credibility.
Why Asking These Questions Matters
Construction projects are huge investments. By asking these questions, you:
Avoid fraud and scams
Ensure compliance with Nigerian building laws
Save money and time
Guarantee high-quality results
Need a Reliable Construction Partner?
Hamthel Holdings offers end-to-end construction and project management services in Lagos and across Nigeria.
1. Transparent pricing
2. Expert engineers & architects
3. Timely delivery
Please where are you located and how can we reach you?