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.
