For architects and engineers (and everyone in between), finding new clients is an ongoing challenge. Whether you’re a smaller operation or part of a larger firm, expanding your client base requires a constant and consistent effort that includes strategy, networking, and industry insights. And as HBW subscribers are already aware, one of the most powerful tools for business development is building permit data.
By leveraging building permit data, architects and engineers can identify potential projects, connect with property owners, and stay ahead of market trends. Today, we will take a brief look at how permit data can be used to attract new clients, as well as offer some practical examples of its benefits.
Understanding Building Permit Data
From new construction to renovations, residential and commercial, building permits are required for most construction projects. Permits include key information including but not limited to:
- Project type (new construction, renovation, addition, etc.)
- Property owner information
- Contractor and architect details
- Estimated project value
- Permit approval and issuance dates
When properly used by construction professionals, the above listed data can serve as a reliable source for client development and play an important role in building an effective marketing strategy.
So, how does one go about using permit data to find new clients? For starters, let’s take a look at some of the basics…
1. Identify Active Property Owners & Developers
Permit data provides direct access to property owners who are actively investing in construction projects. By filtering the data, architects and engineers can identify individuals or companies that frequently undertake construction work, making them prime prospects for future projects.
Example: If a local property developer has filed multiple permits for renovations over the past year, they might need an architect for a large-scale project in the near future. By reaching out with a tailored proposal showcasing relevant expertise, an architect can position themselves to be an ideal fit for their next project.
2. Target Specific Project Types
Permit data allows architects and engineers to focus on projects that align with their expertise, whether it’s residential, commercial, or industrial design. By filtering permits based on project type, industry professionals can focus on the projects that are best suited for their experience, team, and specialties.
Example: An architect specializing in high-end residential design can track permits for higher-value and luxury home renovations; from there, they can have a more focused approach for homeowners with ideas for improvements, using relevant past projects as case studies.
3. Build Relationships with General Contractors
General contractors most often work together with architects and engineers. For this reason, reviewing permit data to identify frequently active contractors in your service area(s) can present opportunities for you to establish partnerships with contractors for future referrals and collaborations.
Example: If an engineering firm notices a general contractor frequently working on commercial office renovations, they may proactively reach out and offer structural engineering support for upcoming projects.
4. Stay Ahead of Market Trends
Permit data can help architects and engineers understand construction trends and activity within specific regions. By reviewing reports to locate the areas and regions where new construction is on the rise, professionals can focus their efforts on promoting services in growing markets.
Example: If permit data reflects a surge in multi-family housing developments in a particular County or region, an architectural firm can focus its marketing efforts on developers that are working in that area, showcasing their expertise in similar or complementary multi-family housing design.
5. Provide Value-Added Services to Property Owners
Many property owners may not be aware of the full range of architectural or engineering services that are available to them; moreover, they may not even have factored in the benefits of utilizing such providers. By reviewing permit applications for projects that could benefit from additional expertise, industry professionals can offer value-added services.
Example: In the case where a property owner applies for a basic renovation permit, an architect could reach out and offer to optimize the design for energy efficiency, improved space utilization, or to ensure compliance with zoning regulations.
To leverage permit data effectively, architects and engineers can utilize HBW’s services to gain access to the latest and most pertinent information within their areas of interest. In addition to providing permit data, HBW offers unique and advanced search capabilities, saving users time filtering the data so that they can quickly obtain leads that are most relevant.
For more information on construction business marketing tips, stay connected with the HBW Blog. To get ahead of construction activity and gain access to the latest permitting data in Florida, Texas, Georgia, Alabama and Oklahoma, contact HBW for more information on construction data reports and industry leads.