Enhanced Construction Administration Services for Single Family Homes

Whether you're embarking on a new construction project or undertaking additions/renovations, navigating the various phases of the process can be both exciting and daunting. If you're familiar with design processes or have collaborated with architects or designers in the past, you likely understand the sequential nature of project phases. However, if you're new to this realm, fret not; there's much to learn that will undoubtedly prove valuable in your future endeavors.

While each project may exhibit subtle nuances, they typically follow five key steps:

1. **Schematic Design**: Initial conceptualization and layout planning.

2. **Design Development**: Refinement of the schematic design into more detailed plans.

3. **Construction Documents**: Creation of comprehensive blueprints and specifications.

4. **Permit Application**: Submission for regulatory approval.

5. **Construction Administration (also known as project management)**: Often the least understood yet crucial phase.

Let's delve deeper into Construction Administration:

**Bidding:**

Bidding involves disseminating approved drawings to multiple contractors, who then submit proposals based on various criteria including experience, reputation, insurance, and primarily, cost. Your architect acts as a guide in navigating these bids, helping you select the most suitable contractor for your project.

**Control of the Work:**

Our approach includes a minimum of two site visits during construction, a standard we believe every architect should uphold. Additionally, we offer Construction Administration as an optional service, ensuring comprehensive oversight throughout the project lifecycle.

However, the adequacy of two site visits depends on several factors, notably the project's scale and complexity. Given that most projects span over six months, a mere two visits may fall short. Despite the expectation that construction documents provide exhaustive guidance, they represent a design intent rather than a definitive blueprint. While thorough detailing is desirable, overly extensive documentation would prolong timelines and inflate costs.

Clients occasionally attempt to minimize expenses by hiring less experienced contractors, a decision that may prove costly in the long run. As the adage goes, "you get what you pay for." Opting for a seasoned contractor is a wise investment, yet it's not the sole safeguard against issues.

The responsibilities of Construction Administration encompass:

- Leading weekly project meetings to monitor progress.

- Ensuring adherence to design and specifications.

- Promptly addressing unexpected challenges to prevent delays.

- Reviewing payment requests to safeguard client interests.

- Assessing shop drawings and submittals for compliance.

- Assisting with punch list preparation and completion confirmation.

- Upholding health, safety, and environmental codes.

- Mitigating liabilities.

Architects typically charge between 8% to 12% of construction costs for Construction Administration, with established firms potentially commanding higher fees.

Incorporating Construction Administration into your project budget is a prudent decision. Not only does it save time and money, but it also ensures the realization of your envisioned home. Stay tuned for our upcoming articles as we continue to explore vital aspects of construction and design.

We hope to clarify a couple of things for you.

Let us know if we can be of any help.

Thanks for reading

Damian