Have you ever worried you might miss one tiny but crucial detail before placing your metal building order?
After months of researching designs, comparing quotes, and visualizing your new space, you’re finally here the finish line is in sight. But even experienced buyers can feel overwhelmed in these last moments. What if you overlook an important permit? What if your foundation isn’t ready on delivery day?
You’re not alone. Many people face the same uncertainty right before making this big purchase. This is why we created this seven-step final checklist, designed to help you lock in every detail, avoid costly mistakes, and feel confident you’re making the right decision.
In the next few minutes, you’ll discover a clear, step-by-step guide that ensures your specifications match exactly what you expect, your site is ready for delivery, and all your paperwork, permits, and warranties are in order.
This is your last step before placing your order and bringing your metal building plans to life. Let’s get started.
Step 1: Validate Your Specifications
Before placing your order, it’s vital to review every detail of your building’s design. A small error here can lead to costly delays later. One common mistake? Buyers ordering based on aerial views without proper measurements and ending up with ill-fitted parts .
Start by double-checking the overall dimensions: width, length, and eave height. Confirm them against the final plans and quotes. According to industry guides, misreading one dimension can derail the entire project .
Next, inspect the roof pitch and panel profiles. These affect both drainage and structural performance. The Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA) emphasizes accurate roof framing especially purlins and clips to avoid structural problems .
Review all custom features, such as doors, windows, insulation, and panel colors. Once panels are fabricated, changes are often costly or impossible. Align these details with your intended use whether for workshops, storage, or vehicles to ensure interior clearances, door sizes, and window placements match your needs .
Finally, check local requirements. Many regions require buildings to meet snow loads, wind resistance, or energy efficiency standards. Skipping this step is a major misstep one manufacturer warns about .
Action: Sign off on your specifications document and ask your provider to confirm everything in writing. If anything is unclear, request written revisions before moving on.
Step 2: Confirm Site Readiness
Proper site preparation is crucial before ordering your metal building. Many delays and added costs come from poor planning during this phase .
The first step is clearing. Remove all vegetation, large rocks, stumps, and debris from your building area. Then use grading equipment to level the ground and ensure it accommodates water runoff. Poor grading is a frequent cause of foundation issues later .
Next, focus on foundation prep. Soil stability matters: loose or clay-heavy soils must be removed or improved with compacted fill dirt or gravel. Without this, your foundation may settle or crack . If you’re using a concrete slab, allow sufficient time for curing typically several days to weeks as rushing this step often leads to structural problems .
Access is another key factor. Confirm that delivery trucks and installation crews can reach the site without obstruction. You might need a compacted gravel road or reinforced pathways for heavy vehicles . Also, consider staging space near the build area to store materials safely and keep the site organized .
Remove obstacles above ground too,make sure there’s room for cranes and lifts. Think about drainage again,set up gutter systems or French drains to divert water away from the slab. And finally, check for utilities. If your building needs electricity, water or gas hookups, set up the necessary trenches and connections before the slab is poured .
Action: Go through a written site readiness checklist to confirm: clearing is complete, ground is level and compact, foundation prep is done, access routes exist, staging space is reserved, drainage plans are in place, and utilities (if needed) are prepped. Sign off this checklist before scheduling delivery.
Step 3: Double‑Check Building Codes and Permits
Never skip confirming permits and code compliance delaying delivery because of missing paperwork is one of the most common mistakes in metal building projects.
Start by contacting your local building authority. You’ll likely need the following before placing your order:
- Stamped, engineer-approved building plans showing size, use, and load specifications.
- A detailed plot plan with your structure’s placement and dimensions.
- Application forms for building permits and associated fees.
Ask your provider whether your plans comply with zoning rules, homeowner association guidelines (if applicable), snow or wind load requirements, and any energy or fire codes. The ICC’s model codes (IBC, IRC, IECC, etc.) serve as the foundation for common requirements in most regions .
Submitting your permit application early is key. Many jurisdictions require multiple plan sets (e.g., structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing). Be prepared to receive feedback such as “revise and resubmit” and allow extra time typically 20 working days for a complete review.
Action: Gather all documents stamped plans, plot diagram, permit forms, fee receipts and submit your application. Keep copies of everything. Only proceed once you have official permit approval in hand.
Step 4: Review Contract Terms and Warranties
When signing the contract, don’t just glance at the numbers and read the fine print carefully. Common problems with metal building contracts include vague warranty language, unclear cancellation rights, and poorly defined delivery schedules.
Materials and Labor Warranties
Manufacturers typically offer 20–40‑year paint warranties and 10‑year structural warranties. Confirm which parts are covered (such as sheeting, framing, fasteners) and check for labor coverage on installation. Some warranties apply only to the original owner , ask if there are transfer or prorated options.
Delivery and Installation Timelines
Your contract should specify delivery and installation windows. Common issues arise when contracts say “within 60 business days” but don’t define start/completion dates. Push for specific milestones like “delivery within 45 days of deposit.”
Cancellation and Change Policies
Understand if you can cancel or make changes without penalties. Standard contracts may include “fabrication starts upon deposit,” making changes costly. Check timelines for free modifications, order restarts, and forfeiture clauses.
Clarify Warranty Coverage in Writing
Get everything in writing. If there are exclusions such as damages from misuse, weather events or poor installation make sure these are spelled out. Your contract should state who is responsible for post-installation inspection, upkeep, and costs for repairs.
Action: Read the full contract, highlight key terms, and ask specific questions. Have a final version signed only after confirming you understand the warranties, timelines, and your rights.
Step 5: Finalize Payment or Financing
Before placing your final order, make sure your funds are secure and payment terms are crystal clear.
Deposit & Payment Schedule
Canadian suppliers usually ask for a 10–25% deposit at the time of ordering. For larger buildings, you may pay up to 50% before manufacturing begins, with the balance typically due just before delivery. For instance, Metal Pro™ Buildings requires a 25% deposit and balance on delivery .
Ask for a clear, written payment schedule including deposit amount, timing of remaining payments, and accepted payment methods (e-transfer, certified cheque, wire). Some suppliers offer discounts for full upfront payment.
Canadian Financing Options
If you prefer financing, here are common Canadian ways to fund your metal building:
- Personal Loans from Banks or Credit Unions: Unsecured, flexible loans based on your credit profile. Often used for smaller projects.
- Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) : Secured against your home, offering lower interest rates. In Canada, you can borrow up to 65% of your home’s value minus mortgage balance .
- Farm Credit Canada (FCC) Loans: Tailored financing for agri-buildings. FCC offers flexible disbursement schedules, interest-only periods, and long-term repayment options.
- In‑House Manufacturer Financing: Some providers offer plans or rent-to-own packages; compare interest rates carefully .
- Construction Mortgages: Financing tied to phased building stages; ideal for complete builds on new foundations .
Approval Timing
Unsecured personal loans often take just days to approve, while HELOCs and construction mortgages may need 2–4 weeks. Start early to avoid production delays. FCC loans may offer deferred payments or interest-only periods, ideal for seasonally funded projects .
Final Steps
- Request a detailed payment schedule with dates, amounts, and methods.
- Review loan documents: check interest rates, prepayment penalties, and term length.
- Secure financing approval or submit your deposit just before scheduling delivery and installation.
Action: Finalize your funding whether cash or loan and obtain all documentation. Ensure you’re ready to proceed with full financial clarity before moving to scheduling.
Step 6: Schedule Delivery and Installation
Timing matters. Confirming delivery and installation details now helps avoid on-site chaos later.
Lock in Delivery Date
Metal buildings often ship on flatbed trailers up to 48 feet long, weighing up to 22 000 kg. Make sure your access road and site can accommodate this size and weight . If there’s deep snow or ice in your region, ensure paths are cleared on delivery day .
Coordinate with Installation Crew
Delivery doesn’t mean installation. Confirm who your team or a hired install crew will be there when delivery arrives. Unloading typically takes about 2 hours; additional labor adds hourly charges . Arrange cranes, forklift, or manpower beforehand.
Prepare on-site Staging Space
Set aside space near the foundation to stage materials and panels. Proper staging supports efficiency and safety during installation .
Confirm On-Site Point of Contact
Provide the driver with a contact who will be on-site able to handle questions or delays due to weather, traffic, or access issues .
Prepare for Winter or Challenging Conditions
If your delivery is in winter, clear snow and spread sand for safe access. Some drivers may refuse entry if conditions are unsafe .
Verify Payment on Delivery
Most providers require a certified cheque or cashier’s check ready on-site (“COD balance”) before unloading begins . Delays caused by payment issues can lead to storage fees or return shipping costs.
Final Tip
Keep your key steps in writing delivery date, time window, site contact details, payment method, and labor plan. Confirm everything via email or text so everyone is on the same page.
Action:
- Confirm all delivery details and payment method in writing.
- Schedule installation crew, equipment, and staging area.
- Make sure someone is present on delivery day to manage logistics.
Step 7: Get Written Confirmation and Receipt
Securing written confirmation is the final but crucial step in your metal building journey. It’s not just a formality; it’s your legal safeguard and roadmap for what’s coming next.
Why it matters: A clear order confirmation ensures both you and the supplier agree on all details such as building specs, delivery dates, payment terms, and warranties. It protects you from misunderstandings and delays. In contracting, “important communications shall be confirmed in writing” to avoid missteps and legal disputes .
Once your deposit or financing is in place and you’ve signed the contract, expect a formal confirmation or letter from your supplier.
This document should include:
- The exact building specifications (size, design, options, color).
- Delivery window, location, and contact person.
- Final balance owed and payment method.
- Warranty details and what inspections will be required.
After each transaction deposit, balance, or financing demand receipts or invoices. This prevents “I didn’t get paid” scenarios and serves as proof if payment delays occur.
Action:
- Request an order confirmation letter and approval of all specs, schedules, and payment terms.
- Keep copies of all confirmations and receipts.
- Send a quick email confirmation back to the supplier: “Yes, I agree to these terms.”
- Store everything in a dedicated folder digital or physical to have everything at your fingertips on delivery day.
This final written confirmation gives you clarity and peace of mind heading into installation.
You’ve done the research. You’ve prepared your site. You’ve reviewed every detail.
Now you’re ready to bring your metal building plans to life.
Ready to lock in your order?
Don’t wait, secure your building, schedule your delivery, and enjoy total peace of mind.
Our team is here to help you finalize your purchase and answer any last-minute questions. Whether you want to double-check your specs, confirm financing, or schedule delivery, we’re only a click or call away.
Call Us: (888) 296-6688
Email: [email protected]
Or get started online in minutes: Start My Project with Metal Pro™
Contact us today to get started. Let’s build something great together.
