In all the years I have been in business, very few jobs are brought to me with enough information to give a price for the entire project. A preliminary drawing has been the best way to go.
Example 1: The cost is minimal and the information provided and the design ideals on paper give both draftsperson and builder a common starting point. At that point a client can decide if my services are what they expected. Price for a finished set of plans can then be determined and compared to industrial standard.
Example 2: shows how the prelim was developed into a larger project than originally planned. The process of developing a completed set of plans for building officials review depends on the draftsperson ability to develop correct detailed drawings.
The following three examples show the existing design (or layout) and the results after different designs have been explored. Some times the design of a project must be changed because of building requirements. I have a process of playing devils advocate during the planning stage until the client is sure
of the importance of materials or design. Sometimes a well thought out preliminary drawing can save thousands of dollars.
The example to the right shows three front elevations of a project that agencies approval was needed to build near the coast of California. See if you can pick out the most
appropriate structure for a coastal community. Stop by and get the best clam chowder and freshest crabs in California.
Jobs are charged for by the hour or the job. If the project is brought to me with all the details, design and decisions completed a price can be given for the entire job. Giving a price to complete a job is a preferred way to do business but all the project information and design work must be done. Sometimes I am asked to change plans to electronic files or make changes to and existing set of plans. That can be done easily and a cost estimate given directly. Costs not covered by this office are permits, engineering, heat calculations and blue prints. Review plans are provided for with printing available in office.
All projects are provided with hard copy and electronic file. Any jobs submitted to building officials will be completed to the requirements of codes. If building officials require any engineering changes or additions to drawings these are charged for by the hour. This charge is determined by how much information or details the building department may require in addition to the standard plans.
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