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Here are some essential tips for hiring contractors to ensure your construction or renovation project is completed successfully:

1. Research and Gather Recommendations

Start by seeking recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors who have recently had construction work done. Online reviews and testimonials from trusted platforms like Google, Yelp, or specialized construction service websites can also help you identify reliable contractors.

Tip: Check out platforms like Angie’s List, HomeAdvisor, or Houzz for vetted contractor listings with reviews.

2. Verify Licenses and Insurance

Ensure that the contractor you hire is properly licensed and insured. Licensing requirements vary by region, but a valid license indicates the contractor has met certain standards. Insurance protects you in case of accidents or damage during the project.

Tip: Request to see proof of both their license and insurance, including worker’s compensation and liability coverage.

3. Review Past Work

Ask to see examples of past projects that are similar to what you want. Most reputable contractors will have a portfolio or references you can contact. Visiting completed job sites can give you a sense of their workmanship and attention to detail.

Tip: Look for consistency in quality across different projects and ask how the contractor handled challenges.

4. Get Multiple Bids

It’s a good practice to get quotes from at least three different contractors. This allows you to compare prices, timelines, and the scope of work. Be cautious of bids that are significantly lower than others, as they might be cutting corners.

Tip: Be specific about your expectations and the materials you want, so the bids are as accurate and comparable as possible.

5. Clarify the Contract

Ensure there’s a detailed, written contract before work begins. It should outline the scope of work, deadlines, payment schedule, materials being used, and any other relevant terms. A clear contract helps avoid misunderstandings and provides legal protection if disputes arise.

Tip: Never accept verbal agreements; always have everything in writing.

6. Establish a Payment Schedule

Avoid contractors who ask for large upfront payments. A standard payment plan typically involves paying a portion upfront (usually no more than 10-20%), followed by payments at specific project milestones. Final payment should be made after all work is completed to your satisfaction.

Tip: Link payments to project milestones, ensuring that the work progresses before you release more funds.

7. Check Permits

Make sure the contractor pulls the necessary permits for the work. Permits ensure the work complies with local building codes, and some projects won’t pass inspection without them. A reputable contractor will know the specific permits required for your project.

Tip: Never agree to do work without permits—it’s illegal and can cause future legal or safety issues.

8. Set a Clear Timeline

Discuss the project timeline, including when it will start, key milestones, and the expected completion date. Understand that delays can happen due to unforeseen circumstances, but ensure the contractor is committed to finishing the project within a reasonable time frame.

Tip: Include penalties for delays in the contract to ensure the contractor stays on schedule.

9. Communication is Key

Establish clear lines of communication from the beginning. Regular updates are important for tracking progress and addressing any concerns or changes in a timely manner.

Tip: Request weekly updates and meetings to stay informed about the project’s progress.

10. Trust Your Instincts

Lastly, trust your gut feeling when hiring a contractor. If something feels off during the hiring process—such as a contractor being overly pushy or evasive—consider it a red flag. It’s important to feel comfortable with the person who will be handling your project.

Tip: Choose a contractor who is professional, transparent, and responsive to your questions and concerns.


By following these tips, you can ensure that the contractor you hire is capable, trustworthy, and aligned with your project needs.


Tips for Hiring Contractors
Tips for Hiring Contractors

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Choosing the right building systems is a pivotal decision for any construction project, impacting everything from structural integrity to long-term cost efficiency. Whether you’re developing a residential property, a commercial structure, or embarking on a large-scale industrial project, the right system ensures your building performs optimally under its intended use. This guide will walk you through the essentials of finding the right building systems and explain why it’s critical for your project’s success.

What Are Building Systems?

Building systems are the core components of a structure that ensure it functions effectively. These systems include:

  1. Structural Systems – The framework that supports the building, including foundations, beams, walls, and floors.

  2. Mechanical Systems – Systems related to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC).

  3. Electrical Systems – Power distribution, lighting, and telecommunications systems.

  4. Plumbing Systems – Water supply and drainage systems.

  5. Building Envelope Systems – Elements like roofing, insulation, and window systems, which protect the interior and regulate climate control.

Selecting the right systems is essential to ensure the longevity, safety, and sustainability of your project.

Why Finding the Right Building Systems Is Important

  1. Structural Integrity and Safety

The foremost reason for choosing the correct building systems is to ensure structural safety. The strength and durability of the chosen system directly affect the building’s ability to withstand loads, environmental conditions, and time. For example, lightweight concrete systems, known for their cost-efficiency and insulation properties, can be ideal for partition walls and floors in residential buildings.

  1. Cost Efficiency

Your building system choices significantly impact the construction and long-term operational costs. Using systems that match your budget and project requirements can prevent unnecessary expenses. For example, prefabricated building systems can speed up construction time and lower labor costs, while using energy-efficient HVAC and insulation systems can cut down on utility bills.

  1. Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness

Sustainability is becoming a crucial factor in construction. Green building systems, such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and energy-efficient insulation, contribute to reducing the carbon footprint of a project. Sustainable systems not only support environmental initiatives but can also offer savings through reduced energy consumption and access to green building incentives.

  1. Adaptability and Future-Proofing

Selecting a building system that offers flexibility for future needs is essential, especially in commercial or industrial settings. Modular systems allow for easier renovations, expansions, or repurposing of spaces, making them a smart investment for businesses with growth potential.

  1. Comfort and Usability

In residential or office buildings, comfort and usability are important factors. Systems that provide proper ventilation, lighting, and temperature control ensure that the building's occupants are comfortable. Poorly chosen HVAC systems, for instance, can lead to excessive energy usage and discomfort, while high-quality systems promote indoor air quality and energy savings.

  1. Building Compliance and Code Requirements

Different regions have varying building codes that require specific standards for safety, efficiency, and environmental impact. It’s essential to select building systems that comply with local laws to avoid fines, delays, and additional costs. Familiarizing yourself with the codes during the planning phase helps streamline the approval process and reduces the risk of future issues.

Key Considerations When Choosing Building Systems

To choose the right systems for your project, consider the following key factors:

1. Project Scope and Purpose

Every project has unique demands based on its size and purpose. Residential, commercial, and industrial projects all require different systems to function efficiently. Understanding the specific requirements for load-bearing, energy consumption, and user comfort is crucial.

2. Material Selection

The type of materials used in building systems directly affects performance and costs. For instance, steel framing offers high strength and durability, while lightweight concrete provides excellent insulation and fire resistance, especially for partition walls and flooring systems in residential buildings.

3. Climate and Environmental Conditions

The geographic location of your project will dictate the best building systems to use. Buildings in colder climates may require stronger insulation and heating systems, while those in hot, humid areas need efficient ventilation and cooling.

4. Long-Term Maintenance

Consider the ease of maintaining the building systems over the long term. While upfront costs are important, opting for systems that require less frequent or costly maintenance can save significantly over the life of the building.

5. Budget Constraints

While it may be tempting to cut costs, opting for cheaper building systems can lead to problems like structural weaknesses or high utility costs in the future. It’s important to balance initial investment with long-term benefits.

6. Energy Efficiency

With increasing energy costs, choosing systems that minimize energy consumption is a must. Energy-efficient windows, HVAC systems, and insulation reduce operational costs while supporting sustainability.

7. Ease of Installation

Some building systems, like prefabricated modules, allow for quicker, easier installations compared to traditional methods. Choosing systems that reduce labor costs and time can make a significant difference in your project timeline.


The importance of selecting the right building systems cannot be overstated. By ensuring safety, cost-efficiency, and sustainability, you set your project up for success. Whether you're building a home, office, or industrial complex, a thoughtful selection of building systems tailored to your project’s unique needs will yield better results in terms of comfort, durability, and financial outcomes. Take the time to assess your options, consult with experts, and choose systems that align with your vision and goals.


Essential Guide to Finding the Right Building Systems and Why It Matters
Essential Guide to Finding the Right Building Systems and Why It Matters

Writer's pictureGabriel Mikael

BP 220, also known as Batas Pambansa Bilang 220, is a law in the Philippines that sets standards and regulations for the development of economic and socialized housing projects. It was enacted to make housing more affordable for the lower-income sector by providing developers with flexible standards compared to the traditional building codes (like the National Building Code or PD 1096). The aim is to address the growing need for affordable housing while ensuring basic safety and livability.

Here’s a summary of the key standards and guidelines under BP 220:

1. Scope of BP 220

BP 220 applies specifically to the following types of housing:

  • Socialized Housing Projects: Housing projects intended for marginalized and low-income families, typically with lower land development costs and simpler infrastructure.

  • Economic Housing Projects: More affordable than traditional housing, but with higher quality and standards than socialized housing, aimed at the low- to middle-income sector.

2. Minimum Lot Sizes

BP 220 allows for smaller lot sizes than traditional housing developments under the National Building Code to reduce costs and make homes more affordable.

  • Socialized Housing:

    • Single-detached unit: Minimum lot size of 64 square meters.

    • Rowhouse (attached unit): Minimum lot size of 28 square meters.

    • Duplex/Single-attached unit: Minimum lot size of 48 square meters.

  • Economic Housing:

    • Single-detached unit: Minimum lot size of 72 square meters.

    • Rowhouse: Minimum lot size of 36 square meters.

    • Duplex/Single-attached unit: Minimum lot size of 54 square meters.

3. Minimum Floor Areas

The minimum required floor areas under BP 220 vary depending on the type of housing.

  • Socialized Housing: Minimum floor area of 18 square meters for a house with a loft or mezzanine and 22 square meters for a two-storey unit.

  • Economic Housing: Minimum floor area of 22 square meters for a single-storey unit and 30 square meters for two-storey units.

4. Road Width Requirements

Roads within a subdivision or housing development must be wide enough to accommodate traffic and emergency vehicles, but BP 220 allows for narrower roads compared to standard housing projects.

  • Socialized Housing:

    • Major Roads: Minimum width of 8 meters.

    • Minor Roads: Minimum width of 6.5 meters.

    • Alley: Minimum width of 2 meters.

  • Economic Housing:

    • Major Roads: Minimum width of 8 meters.

    • Minor Roads: Minimum width of 6.5 meters.

    • Alley: Minimum width of 2 meters.

5. Setback Requirements

A setback is the distance between the house and the property boundary. BP 220 mandates smaller setbacks than traditional housing developments.

  • Front Setback: Minimum of 1.5 meters.

  • Side Setback: For rowhouses, no side setbacks are required since the houses are attached. For single-detached units, side setbacks may be required, typically 1.5 meters.

  • Rear Setback: Minimum of 2 meters.

6. Open Space Allocation

The development must allocate a percentage of land for open spaces, such as parks, playgrounds, and community facilities. The percentage of open space required depends on the total land area of the project.

  • For subdivisions:

    • Projects with 1 hectare or less: Minimum of 3.5% open space.

    • Projects larger than 1 hectare: 9% to 11% of the total area must be dedicated to open spaces.

This ensures residents have access to recreational areas, which is important for improving the overall quality of life.

7. Water Supply and Sanitation

Developers are required to provide adequate water supply, drainage, and sanitation systems in accordance with local government regulations.

  • Water Supply: Each unit must be supplied with potable water, with standpipes or community water supply systems allowed for low-income housing projects.

  • Sewage and Drainage: The development must include provisions for proper drainage and sewage disposal to avoid flooding or health hazards.

8. Electrical and Power Supply

The housing project must include provisions for electrical systems that are safe and compliant with local building codes.

  • Socialized Housing: Electrical systems can be designed to accommodate more basic needs, but must still meet safety standards.

  • Economic Housing: A full power supply system must be provided, including provisions for future upgrades if necessary.

9. Parks and Playgrounds

BP 220 emphasizes the need for recreational spaces for residents.

  • Parks and Playgrounds: In addition to the required open spaces, there should be designated areas for parks and playgrounds, particularly for developments larger than 1 hectare. These recreational spaces are crucial for the well-being of families, particularly those with children.

10. Utilities and Services

The law ensures that developers provide the following:

  • Street Lighting: Adequate street lighting must be installed on all roads within the housing project for safety and security.

  • Garbage Collection: Proper waste disposal facilities and garbage collection systems must be available.

  • Fire Safety: Fire hydrants and other fire safety provisions must be incorporated into the design and layout of the development.

11. Financial Considerations

BP 220 encourages the use of low-cost housing materials that still meet safety and durability standards, thereby helping reduce the overall cost of construction. The aim is to keep housing affordable while ensuring that the structures are resilient and comfortable for the occupants.

  • Low-Cost Housing Materials: Builders can use alternative or locally sourced materials as long as they meet the required quality and safety standards.

12. Implementation and Enforcement

BP 220 is enforced by the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB), which ensures compliance with the law’s requirements. Developers must submit their plans for approval by the HLURB, and all housing units must meet the standards outlined by BP 220.

  • Penalties for Non-Compliance: Developers who fail to meet BP 220 standards may face penalties, including fines or the revocation of their building permits.


BP 220 sets affordable housing standards that balance cost-efficiency with basic safety and livability. It allows developers to build homes for low-income and middle-income families at reduced costs, while ensuring that these homes meet acceptable standards for space, safety, and access to amenities. This law has been a significant tool in the mass housing programs of the Philippines, addressing the country’s growing housing needs.


What is BP220?
What is BP220?

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