Commercial construction can be rewarding but anyone who's been through it knows it’s rarely smooth sailing. Whether you're building out a retail space or reworking a mixed-use project, there are always a few curveballs waiting. Let’s walk through some of the common challenges in Utah’s commercial construction scene (plus how the right team can help you dodge the headaches).

Keeping Up with Codes and Permits

It’s not just about getting the job done, it's about doing it by the book. One of the trickiest parts of commercial construction in Utah is dealing with ever-changing building codes, local zoning laws, and permit requirements. Miss a detail, and you might face delays that can push timelines (and budgets) off track.

The fix? Work with builders who know the landscape—people who stay on top of local regulations and have solid relationships with permitting offices. They’ll help you move from blueprint to build without getting stuck in red tape.

Matching the Right Builder to the Right Project

Choosing a general contractor isn’t as simple as a Google search and a handshake. Some specialize in large-scale commercial work, while others are better suited for high-end residential projects. It's a mistake to assume all builders bring the same strengths to the table.

A good example is Park City home builders tend to have experience blending form and function for mountain terrain and upscale neighborhoods. That kind of knowledge doesn’t always transfer to an office complex or warehouse. So choosing the right team for the job can save you time, money, and major frustration.

Weather and Terrain Surprises

Utah’s weather is moody, sunny one week, snowing the next. And the state’s terrain is no less dramatic, especially when you’re working in mountain towns or higher elevations. All of this can mess with timelines and logistics.

We’ve seen contractors struggle when they don’t account for site conditions early in the design phase. Materials get delayed, grading gets tricky, and scheduling turns into a nightmare. Builders who plan for seasonal shifts and know how to work with Utah’s unique geography can sidestep a lot of those bumps.

Balancing Design with Practicality

Clients want style and that’s fair. But commercial spaces also need to be functional, code-compliant, and built to last. That balancing act can lead to tough decisions during the design process.

It’s something luxury home builders know well. For example, firms that design luxury homes in Park City, Utah are used to integrating high-end finishes, energy efficiency, and durability all at once. That experience can actually transfer well to commercial projects where aesthetics still matter like boutique hotels or upscale offices.

Budget Creep (and How to Handle It)

Scope creep is real. One change here, another adjustment there before you know it, your original budget is out the window. We’ve seen clients get caught off guard by hidden costs like soil testing, utility adjustments, or even just inflation on materials.

That’s why transparency up front is so important. A reliable builder will talk you through the budget, line by line, and offer realistic estimates not just what you want to hear. They’ll also build in room for flexibility, so when changes happen (because they will), you’re not scrambling to recalculate everything.

Wrapping It Up

Building anything, especially something commercial, isn't easy. But with a builder who knows the state, communicates clearly, and respects both budget and design, the process doesn’t have to be painful.

At Michaelis Build & Development, we’ve worked on everything from luxury homes to complex commercial projects across Utah. We know the hurdles and how to overcome them.

Challenges (and Solutions) in Commercial Construction Across Utah