The first conversation focuses on what the client is trying to build, when they need it, and what they're working with: space, budget, design status, and timeline. Rubicon uses that information to frame the scope and identify what the process will look like for this specific project. Some projects are straightforward tenant improvements with clear timelines. Others need more preconstruction work before a construction contract makes sense.
Before any contract is signed, Rubicon reviews the space, the program, and any available design documents to develop a realistic budget and schedule. For projects where the design isn't complete, this is a rough estimate with a defined range. As design develops, the budget tightens. The goal is to give the client accurate cost expectations before they commit to a lease, a design fee, or a construction contract.
See preconstruction and budgeting services for more detail on this phase.
Once the design is complete and the contract is executed, Rubicon manages the permit application and coordinates with the building department through plan review and approval. For specialized spaces, this includes coordinating with the landlord's engineer, the equipment vendors, and any third-party inspectors the project requires.
During this phase, Rubicon also finalizes subcontractor selections, reviews long-lead items, and builds out the construction schedule. The goal is to have everything lined up before permit is issued so construction can begin without delay.
Rubicon manages the full construction scope: subcontractor coordination, site safety, schedule tracking, RFI and submittal management, change order documentation, and regular communication with the client. The team holds site meetings on a schedule that matches the client's involvement preference, from weekly with the owner to monthly with the project manager.
For occupied-space remodels, the construction phase also involves coordinating work around the client's business operations, scheduling disruptive work outside business hours, and managing the phasing to keep both the construction and the business moving forward.
Project closeout includes the punch list walk, certificate of occupancy, final lien releases, as-built documentation, and any warranty documentation the client needs. Rubicon doesn't consider a project closed until the client has everything they need to occupy the space and maintain it.
After closeout, Rubicon stays available for questions and handles any warranty issues that surface during the first year. Clients who have worked with Rubicon on one project and are ready to start the next one typically don't start from scratch; the team already knows their program, their preferences, and what worked well.
Start A Project Conversation
Looking for a contractor with experience in your type of space? Call Rubicon at (509) 381-4198 or start a project inquiry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rubicon's process runs from initial scope conversation through preconstruction budgeting, permit coordination, full construction management, and project closeout. The team sets up a communication structure at the start of each project so the client knows who to call, how often they'll receive updates, and how decisions get made during construction. The goal is no surprises: either because Rubicon caught the issue early, or because the client heard about it as soon as it surfaced.
Changes during construction are documented as change orders before the work is done. Rubicon reviews the scope change, prices it, and presents the client with a clear description of the change, the cost impact, and the schedule impact before proceeding. Clients are not presented with surprise invoices at the end of a project for work that happened without their approval.
Project closeout includes the punch list walk, correction of any identified items, final inspections, certificate of occupancy, final lien releases, as-built documentation, and warranty documentation. Rubicon considers the project closed when the client has everything they need to occupy the space. The team remains available for warranty issues during the first year after completion.
Yes. Rubicon manages permit applications, plan review coordination, and inspection scheduling as part of the construction scope. For specialized tenant improvements, this includes coordinating with the landlord's engineer, the building department, and any third-party inspectors the project requires. Clients don't manage permit logistics on a Rubicon project; the team handles it.