Company Report: Helm Construction
Quality consrtuction services Reputable Helm Construction has a proven track record in residential, commercial and industrial construction. We discuss how the company endured two recessions and got where it is today

Gardener Ross Golf Estate

Private house in Sandhurst

The Hill Complex in Boskruin

Established in the early 1990s on the principles of quality workmanship and client satisfaction, South African Helm Construction acquired an impressive reputation in a marketplace that was particularly challenging at the time.

Today, an expert residential construction company, registered as a member of the NHRBC and Master Builder Association, Helm’s attention to detail, client focus and consistent delivery of high quality building has ensured a flourishing business despite the challenging and ever-changing economy.

RECESSION
Abbey de Groot, CEO, talks further about the organisation he has been associated with since its establishment: “When we began in 1992, South Africa’s economy was in recession and it was a tough time to establish a business. Later, in 1995, we experienced another major downturn due to political uncertainty, but were able to survive these challenges and still managed growth. These early challenges gave us the experience to endure economic lows.

“Over the years we have been very successful in building a company that caters for middle and upmarket residential construction.”

Aside from this speciality, Helm has also been involved in complicated residential renovations, cluster developments, townhouses, upmarket apartments, shopping centres and commercial buildings. “It’s easy to see the negative that comes out of a recession, but it actually allows you to reflect on costs and overheads and action a belt tightening exercise,” de Groot explains, demonstrating an ability to find strength with such a challenge. “I think maintaining an economical overhead base is extremely important in our industry. As far as I’m concerned, it’s as important as maintaining the standards and parameters that we have set to meeting our clients’ expectations, in terms of budget and quality; these are the criteria we are proud of and generally respected for in the industry,” he adds.

LONGSTANDING RELATIONSHIPS
Helm’s client-centric approach to building has earned the firm great respect from both industry professionals and clients. “Great emphasis is placed on understanding the client and their expectations, as well as the communication between the client, the construction teams and suppliers,” de Groot says.

In speaking with de Groot, it is clear he comunderstands the importance of communication and maintaining healthy working relationships throughout the organisation. “I think the forming and maintaining of long-term relationships with developers and suppliers in the industry is a significant focus for us, we see them as part of our team. We are respected in the industry for the way we conduct our business.”

Helm’s longstanding relationships with professionals and dedicated teams of specialist subcontractors ensure faultless operations every time. And by using preferred specialist suppliers, the company can enjoy expert advice, and proven quality products and service. “This is something that we have been blessed with. By building these long-term relationships, we can maintain the objective that we’ve set up,” he explains.

Aside from its client base, staff are equally important, as de Groot attests: “People are a huge asset to the company. I think we are extremely reliant on a knowledgeable and stable workforce.” Helm also looks to develop its staff to their maximum potential through in-house training and creating growth and advancement opportunities within the company.

TODAY AND TOMORROW
To date, Helm has many accomplishments under its belt. On invitation, the company has participated in the previous Home Shows. In addition, it has had a number of houses featured in leading magazines, books and television shows.

Yet despite this impressive set of achievements, Helm’s ambition and drive for further success continues. “We intend to continue to focus on developing our experience and exposure in multi-level developments, as well as becoming more involved in the refurbishment of some interesting projects to redevelop the Johannesburg inner-city,” he says.

With a focus on diversifying within construction, and good working relationships underpinning Helm’s plans for the future, success looks set to continue.

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