How to choose your Architect

Hello and welcome back. Today's blog is informational for you on "Architects" how to choose and when you do or don't need one.  First of all we need to help you the consumer understand the Architects job and performance. In the construction industry we consider Architects (when needed) to be first. They should be able to possess the following traits, options, and qualifications.  A free consultation on your project including an appointment for viewing and/or meeting.  A sense of design for your project upon your consultation. An on site estimation of what it may cost to draw the plans needed for your project.  If you have already chosen a contractor then you should have them present at the consultation to Expedite questions and process.  The architect must draw your plans to meet city codes and ordinance.

The architect may have several different designs to draw for you to review and then you present them to a contractor and some changes may need be made at this time. Once this process is done your architect should be able to provide you with a "construction plan" that would allow your contractor to estimate your project.  Your now chosen contractor may have corrections or submissions needed in your plans.  If so, the contractor will submit to architect before final drawings are completed.

Now you are ready for your final drawing to be submitted for your review. Upon your approval of the final plans, the architect must now provide you with at least five sets of these plans. These plans must possess the architects Licensed Seal that is also signed by the architect on every page and every set.  Congratulations! You are now able to let your contractor take the plans to your city building division and have approved. Once done you should acquire one set of signed and sealed copies (by the city) for your own personal record and reference. The contractor shall hold one. and the city may hold the other three copies. Once your contractor and you have agreed on the cost then you are ready to begin.

The next small part of this blog is to inform you as to when you do or don't need an architect.
In starting please discuss your project with a reputable contractor. Pending reason why your contractor may say you need architectural drawings should be: If your project will disturb load-bearing or structurally related parts of your home (i.e. a wall that if you want removed may make your roof fall). If not then you may not need the architect and depend on your contractor to draw appropriate drawing to acquire permits.....WHAT???? I STILL NEED PERMITS ....DAWG-ON-IT.
Yes you may still need permits so this is why our next blog is going to help you understand when, why, and when you don't need permits depending on the city ordinance and building division where you reside.
We at Klein Developments thank You for your participation in reading our blogs and hope that our information is beneficial to each and everyone of your specific construction needs.

How to Hire a General Contractor for you Home Improvement and Home Building needs

Hi there welcome to Klein Developments.  This blog entry will give you information on choosing the best contractor in your area.

We will start with the beginning process.  Most consumers utilize the internet to query about specific construction jobs needing to be performed using "job specific keywords" on your search for the right contractor will help.   Once you have located the contractor section for your specific needs, try to choose at least five to call.  Write down a list of specific questions to ask about your construction work needing performed.  If possible, try to have samples of materials or pictures that you like.  Interview each contractor on the phone and see if they seem informing, personable, and professional.  Your ultimate goal at this point is to choose three contractors to give estimates on your construction project.  Once you set appointment times, then do your own background checks on the contractors; an example i.e. BBB.org, Angies list etc.  Now finally you have your appointments set and your chance to personally interview each contractor.  On these final interviews your contractors should possess the following:  number one is going to be intelligence once seeing the construction work that you need to have performed. Number two contractors should arrive at the agreed upon time. Number three clean presentation. Number four business cards.  Number five detail oriented as far as measurements. Number six and appointed time that you may receive your estimations.

Be prepared your contractor may need to take pictures to provide best estimate for your construction project.

Ok! Now your estimates are in on their timely manner.  It is time for you to go to work.  Number one compare the estimates that you have received "apples to apples".  Make sure that details are congruent with your previous interviews.  Number two check qualifications including references.  Number three compare pricing, and if anything is questionable then be sure to call the contractor with your concerns.  They should revise your estimate if needed.  Number four check credentials as far as licensing and insurance before make final decisions.  Number five feel free to call your chosen contractor for any additional questions--after all they are working for you!

You are now ready to hire your chosen contractor.

Klein Developments extends their wish to have the greatest construction experience with their chosen contractor.  We thank you for checking our blog this week and check back for our next blog entry on Architects-When you need them, and when you don't.

Welcome to Klein Developments

Hello thank you for visiting our site.

We have created this website to help you all interested in construction for your residential or commercial needs.  We are impressed that you have visited our website and we hope that it will be informing to you about our professional company.  We are creating this blog so you may hear our weekly construction tips.
These commentaries will give you an A - Z knowledge and helpful hints on your home remodeling or new home construction.

Please check back next week for our "Choosing the Correct Contractor" tips.

Thank you for visiting us and we always welcome you questions or comments.

You may contact us any time with your questions at 314-322-7896 or 636-667-7007.

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