Frequently Asked Questions

I've decided to build a self storage facility. What can your firm provide me?

We can provide you with all the services necessary for you to build your facility. These services include feasibility studies, municipality approvals, oversight of the engineers/architects, development of the scope of work, construction quotes, contract administration, job site supervision, scheduling, local and State inspections and final punch-lists. Investment Real Estate Construction is your single source for self storage development.

Why wouldn't I use a general contractor?

On most self storage projects, full time supervision is not needed (and is very expensive), as you are only dealing with several different sub-contractors. We can manage these contracts and control the flow of the project from our home office with job meetings once a week at the site. Since most of the sub-contractors we select on your behalf have self storage experience, weekly supervision is sufficient.

Are there any design items specific to self storage that I need to be aware of?

Yes, there are many items specific to self storage that a developer needs to be aware of. We can save you a lot of time and aggravation by value engineering a project from inception. Our goal is to minimize the revisions and change orders common with first time development projects. A few examples of value engineering include the new building codes in Pennsylvania, ADA requirements, access design and building layouts.

How do you charge for your services?

We charge an hourly rate for professional services and give a "not to exceed" cost on
most projects. The proposal presentation we give to you would include our estimation of the total cost to you.

When should we get you involved in our project?

The earlier the better. Every decision made from orientation of buildings on the site
to unit mix can affect the success of the project. We have been involved in the development of many projects - from one-building projects to multi-story, multi-building complexes. Every project benefits from having an experienced consultant on your team from concept to completion.

Do you have a specific building supplier and subcontractors you use?

No. We generally have three to four companies provide competitive bids for each aspect of the project. There are several building suppliers we have worked with that provide quality buildings with good service. We do have a data base of those contractors that have self storage experience for given areas and will recommend them where appropriate.

Do I have to take a full service contract or can we do some things ourselves?

We have some owners that want to play an active role in the construction of their project. IREC will be happy to provide our services in any part to help you toward the completion of a successful facility. However, we have found that most owners who want to run a part of their project ultimately realize that it is easier and cheaper to have us control all aspects of their project, freeing them up to pursue other business interests.