What is Turnkey Construction?

Turnkey construction is a building solution that drastically simplifies things for the owner of the future project. With this type of project, the contractor is given the responsibility for design and construction work. The owner need only wait for the contractor get the job done, and then when the project is finished, he or she is able to “turn the key” and start using the new building or facility.

These types of contracts usually have three primary components:

• Design: The contractor is responsible for preparing the design of the home or facility, which eliminates the need for the future owner to hire architects and designers independently.
• Supply Procurement: Instead of the project owner or employer locating and purchasing supplies, the contractor handles this through his or her own network of suppliers. Depending on the type of turnkey contract, the future owner may be able to specify suppliers and materials.
• Construction: The contractor handles every aspect of construction, from start to finish. This way, the owner doesn’t have to spend time searching for subcontractors and hiring them, nor do they have to take part in the construction itself. Once the building is done, the keys are handed over and the new owner is able to begin using the building or facility.

The advantage to turnkey construction over other types of contracts is that project owners who are strapped for time won’t have to take an active role in the design, supply purchasing and construction phases. Project owners or employers need only provide access to the site, help with the procurement of licenses and permits, and approve phases of the project as stipulated by the contract.