Michael Soh discusses what schools should be doing RIGHT NOW if they want facilities work completed this summer—and the honest reality check about what’s still possible at this point.
Here are this session’s top 3 tips:
1. At this point, you have to commit and move fast.
Summer construction starts when school ends in May—that’s just weeks away. If you want summer work done, make a decision NOW and commit to it. Get a contractor engaged immediately (ideally you would have done this in January or February, but if you haven’t, do it today). Confirm your budget and building accessibility. And here’s the hard truth: if your project requires extensive permits or drawings, “the ship has likely sailed” and you need to plan for next summer instead. Simple permits (plumbing, small HVAC) can still work.
2. Realistic summer projects: maintenance and simple replacements only.
What’s achievable: flooring replacements, interior painting, bathroom renovations, HVAC/lighting upgrades, roof repairs, security upgrades, parking lot resurfacing, cafeteria/kitchen upgrades. What’s biting off more than you can chew: full additions or new construction (need 18-24 months advance planning), major MEP overhauls, full HVAC replacements (lead times for equipment may already be past summer), anything requiring extensive approvals and permits, change of occupancy projects.
3. Build 15-20% contingency for older buildings with unknowns.
Start with financial preparation—set your budget, then add contingency on top. For straightforward cosmetic work, 10% contingency covers minor unknowns. For older buildings or anything involving opening walls, carry 15-20% contingency. You have “complete unknowns of what you could discover”—asbestos, outdated wiring, water damage, plumbing issues not observable until you open walls. Use “not to exceed” (NTE) numbers with consultants. Most importantly: hire the right contractor, ideally someone you’ve worked with before who can help tackle unknowns.
Watch the Whole Conversation Here
