General question about selecting an architect and additional fees

I have to renovate a small building and I’m starting to receive the first quoted from architects. They all seem to be different, some more detailed and others more basic. What I’m learning is to look at what is not included rather than what is included. I see that they all list the concept design, the design development and and construction administration, in addition to the assistance in selecting the right GC. Which items should I look for to base my decision? Also which other addition expenses need to be added to the architect fees? I know there will be an expeditor, there will be fees linked to the permits paid to the DOB but what else? One of the quotes came with an expeditor proposal and another with a series of “Special Inspection” proposal which was actually pretty high, what is this?

brooklyntoqueens

in Brownstoner Renovation 11 years and 5 months ago

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renovator07 | 11 years and 3 months ago

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The fee is not typically a fixed percentage in this kind of project. It really depends on the size and complexity of the project. The fee is always separate from the construction budget, but is included (obviously) in the overall Project Budget. What you should focus on is not the percentage of the fee, but really your comfort level with the Architects that you talked to. Do they have experience in this type of project? Can they provide references? Did they take time to answer your questions? Was their proposal clear and easy to understand what is included and what is not, or was it vague? Communication is going to be critical for this to be a successful relationship, and you want to know from the start that this will be someone who will answer your questions and be a straight shooter. This is much more important than 8% vs 12%.

brooklyntoqueens | 11 years and 4 months ago

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Thanks for all the replies, I have another additional question. Is it true that 10% of the over whole budget the standard fee for an architect and mostly is the fee itself added to the budget when calculating this percentage or is the fee calculated on the cost of the project only?

manhatta | 11 years and 5 months ago

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If this is the first time you are working with an architect, you may find this document helpful: http://info.aia.org/blast_images/mrkt/brochure_wtw_yaya.pdf In terms of project cost, you are likely to encounter the following: Architect, Expeditor, Structural Engineer (if required), MEP Engineer (if required), Geotech Engineer (if required), Asbestos Investigation, Soil Test (if required), DOB, Landmarks (if required), Special Inspections Consultant (if required), General Contractor, Owner Supplied Items Good Luck! Richard richard@manhatta.net www.manhatta.net

agdipierro

in Brownstoner Renovation 11 years and 5 months ago

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If you use an American Institute of Architects agreement, the scope of work will be spelled out. AIA agreements are recommended by attorneys, insurers, and industry experts. You could tell the architects that you want them to price comprehensive architectural services as specified in the standard AIA agreement. Leave in some money for a structural or mech/elec/plumbing engineer.

a2chitect | 11 years and 5 months ago

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You will need an asbestos inspection, and if there is asbestos, an abatement company will need to be hired to safely remove asbestos. If you are planning an addition or extension, a property survey,zoning exhibits, and soil tests will need to be provided.

architensions | 11 years and 5 months ago

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Usually a project is divided in : Schematic design, Design development, Construction documents,Bidding and Negotiations, Construction administration. In between the early stage the architect will file the permit to the DOB and Landmark if required. Sometimes it happens that there is no design involved in the project and so basically all you need is DOB filing, which is not ideal but very common and possible. We are an architecture and design firm and we will be happy to give you our estimate as well. In case email us at info@architensions.com or call 917-438-6831 best, Alessandro

jockdeboer | 11 years and 5 months ago

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You need to specify what you are looking for. Some people only want what is required to pull a permit. Others want everything designed. The city requires some inspections which require insurance and registration. These inspections depend upon what type of work is being done.

jockdeboer | 11 years and 5 months ago

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You need to specify what you are looking for. Some people only want what is required to pull a permit. Others want everything designed. The city requires some inspections which require insurance and registration. These inspections depend upon what type of work is being done.