DLA+A: Services
Included is a list of services provided by this firm. As the office continues to evolve, the types of service may expand to accommodate the needs of the client. These are the current services that are provided to clients:
Architectural Design Services - Renderings and Models
Variances and Planning Board Applications
Site Work and Buildingscape - Design Consultation - Planning
Forensic and General Building Evaluations
Here is a description of our services: Design and architectural services - This is the most-requested service and it can range from preliminary sketches to full contract documents for construction and permits. The level/ type of service is unique to each project -- depending on what the client needs and what is required to achieve thier goals. The design and architectural service is usually organized into three parts: schematic design, design development and contract documents.
Renderings and Models - These can be quoted on a flat fee and per job basis depending on the amount of work involved.
Variances and Planning Board Applications- There are just some projects that do not conform to the zoning regulations for one reason or other. This can really delay or cancel a project depending on what is required. Find out before and obtain some representation to back up your request by using an architect before and during the meetings.
Site Work and Buildingscape - Designing a building is just part of some projects. Do you need to rethink how that driveway and approach to the house works? Do your plans require retaining walls and other site work that could really benefit from having an experienced eye review it? Buildingscape refers to that area around the building that is critical for proper site location. Plan book designs are notorious for not tackling this issue, and why should they? Every property is unique and deserves a well-designed site plan to take advantage of what makes your place beautiful.
Design Consultation - Are you thinking about building but don't know what is the best-desired approach? Spending an hour or two at the beginning will help provide direction. A design consultation is normally two hours, no matter the size of the project, just because there is always so much to discuss. Points of discussion are: what is the desired project, how much do you think it will cost to build, are there any issues that will need to be addressed, what are the alternative ways of achieving the same goals?
Forensic Reports detail structural issues and/or failures are also available on a per job basis. Contact the office for further details.
Planning - This service is probably the least known to clients. Planning is basically a detailed description of a project used for feasibility studies, budget, financing, and life-cycle analysis. Developers and commercial clients use this service to make certain that their future project is realistic and will help their business grow. An example of planning for a residential client would be a more detailed study of whether or not a project will be a good investment and provide a basis for financing the project. The product of the Planning service is normally a report that includes cost breakdowns, site plans and other information on the project.
Property Evaluation Reports - This is slightly different than an engineer's report you would use in the process of purchasing property. This report investigates the possible costs to you as buyer for future planned renovation or addition work and evaluates the structure in that perspective. Is this property worth buying and then renovating? Are there issues (codes, zoning, etc.) that will need attention because of what I am planning to do with the property?
Other Services - Into this category falls those services that are related to the built environment and do not often require design.
Backflow Prevented or Cross-connection Control Application Reports: Some municipalities are requiring businesses and residential buildings to have these devices installed on the water service to prevent accidental contamination of the public water system. This firm provides a complete application report required for filing with the municipal water authority and Department of Health.
Fees - Cost is often the most asked question. The fees charged by this office are flat-rate type. Once the project and it's requirements is clearly understood, I quote a set fee for the work based upon a combination of square footage and the type of work involved (renovation, new-build, etc.) This gives the client a clear idea of what is going to be provided to them and for what cost.
I don't believe in the method of "fee based upon percentage of construction value" because most of my clients are the ones picking out cabinets and countertops, siding colors and other finishes which could change their construction cost. I only charge for what work the firm is involved in. If a client would like to compare fees, I would certainly urge them to get a quote and shop around to see if you are getting the same service for the price (meetings, flexible scheduling, etc.). My fees normally work out to be about half of the sales tax rate, which homeowners can reclaim with the Capitol Improvement programs in most states.

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