Managing expenses can be a tricky task in the construction industry, particularly for small to medium-sized enterprises(SMEs). As accountants for construction businesses, we recognise and help our clients solve the challenges unique to the sector.
This comprehensive guide will offer five practical tips on how to manage your construction expenses and navigate the complexities of expense management.
1) Master project accounting
Construction projects demand meticulous financial oversight. As accountants for construction, we recommend establishing dedicated project accounts to track income, expenses and profitability.
Smith Butler can help utilise modern accounting software to streamline project accounting processes, providing real-time visibility into financial performance. Our tailored guidance will highlight key project metrics, allowing for the most informed decision-making and proactive financial management.
2) Stay on top of your books
Solid bookkeeping forms the foundation of effective expense management. Our advice is to maintain organised and easy-to-access records of all transactions. Utilise digital platforms for receipt tracking, invoicing, and reconciliation.
We can help regularly reconcile your accounts to catch discrepancies early. We’ll also help you embrace cloud-based bookkeeping solutions for accessibility and collaboration, ensuring your financial data is secure and easily accessible when needed.
3) Set realistic budgets
Setting comprehensive budgets for each construction project can help you stay on top of your expenses. Account for materials, labour and overhead costs when creating your budget, looking at potential extra expenses you may incur over the course of the project.
It’s also crucial to regularly review and adjust budgets based on project progress and changing circumstances. Measuring your progress can help you manage your costs more effectively, minimising the risk of cost overruns and enhancing overall project profitability. Furthermore, the more you do this, the easier it will be to create accurate budgets in the future.
4) Adopt accounting technology
Emphasise forward-thinking financial strategies by leveraging technology. As accountants for construction, we can suggest ways to integrate specialised accounting software, mobile apps, and digital platforms tailored for the industry.
Linking your bank account with your software, for example, can significantly cut down time spent on bookkeeping tasks. Many cloud accounting platforms like Sage will automatically pull data from your bank feed and categorise it for you, allowing you to track different types of costs with ease.
Meanwhile, automatic invoice features can help ensure that you get paid on time by promptly sending invoices and chasing up late-paying clients.
You could also utilise data analytics to gain valuable insights into your company’s financial health, helping you improve efficiency and accuracy in your financial operations.
Depending on your chosen accounting platform, you may be able to integrate your software with receipt-scanning apps, making it easier to keep track of paper receipts.
By adopting collaborative technology, you will gain access to digital tools which facilitate seamless communication and coordination among your team.
5) Work with accountants for construction businesses
When you’re busy juggling several different construction projects, it can be challenging to find time to manage your costs effectively. So why not work with accountants for construction businesses like Smith Butler?
Whether you need project accounting support, comprehensive budgeting services or access to state-of-the-art accounting technology, financial experts can take on time-consuming accounting tasks so you can focus on running your business.
With years of experience working with construction businesses like yours, we understand the common challenges this industry faces. Our clear and precise guidance can provide practical tips to help drive your business forward. By incorporating solid expense management strategies, you’ll not only stay on top of costs but also lay the groundwork for sustained success.
Thinking about working with accountants for construction businesses? Contact Smith Butler today to find out how we can help.