We work closely with several local architects and engineers, and we are happy to recommend one to you, should you need one. We feel this helps in our ability to keep our overhead costs low for our clients, and also allows you to bring in an architect or engineer of your choosing. Proper design of a project is one of the most important steps in a large remodeling project, and in most cases is a requirement for permitting. Our co-owner, Rebecca Williams can help you with designs for non-structural projects for a small fee, or you can submit your own designs. However, these designs must be approved and signed off on by both contractor and client to ensure the designs can be built to the current building code.
I have heard that a new law has passed requiring Contractors to be professionally licensed. Do you have one, and can you explain what this means?
Yes, Pro-Cision, LLC is licensed as a Residential Basic Contractor, with Mike Williams as our qualifying agent. The Georgia Office of the Secretary of State is requiring all Contractors to be licensed as of July 1, 2008. These new laws are for your protection, and attempts to sort out any “unscrupulous” Contractors. To qualify for the license, you must pass a background check, be experienced, carry proper insurance, and pass a license examination. No one other than a licensed contractor will be able to pull a building or repair permit after July 1st in any municipality in the State of Georgia (You can still obtain a homeowner permit, but you may be required to retain ownership of the property for two years following resolution of the permit, if the work is not performed by or overseen by a licensed Contractor). As of 2008, City of Atlanta requires a building permit for any work on a property over $2500 in value, or any work that adds to, alters, or otherwise modifies the building or structure, and City of Decatur requires a permit for any work on a property over $1000 in value, or structural in nature, roofing, repair, renovation, or new construction. More information is available online regarding this matter at the Georgia Office of the Secretary of State web site: www.sos.georgia.gov
Okay, I know what my budget for my renovation project is, but I am not sure if I can fit everything I would like to have done into this budget. How can I get started?
A good Architect will ask you specifically about your budget, and then design accordingly. However, it may be difficult for an architect to accurately predict project costs at times, especially in today’s volatile economy, so it may also be useful for you to share your tentative budget (budget – 20% “cushion” to cover changes and unexpected items) with your Contractor as well. You can also get a very good idea of what your budget might cover by reading the Cost vs. Value report from Remodeling magazine. Each year this national magazine compiles data on the 25 most common remodeling projects, including a cost-to-construct figure, both as national and regional averages, and even includes the average-resale-value you will recoup on a project when you sell your house. This is a great tool for you, and is free to use at www.remodeling.hw.net. Finally, the old standard of getting more than one quote for your project helps as well. When looking at quotes, the thoroughness of the estimate is often be a better indicator of pricing accuracy and quality of work than the actual price, but all of the prices together will give you a range for budgetary purposes.
I have never done a renovation job before, but I’ve heard it can be a nightmare! Is there any way to make the process smoother?
There are several steps you should take when contemplating a renovation. The first step is to write down your ultimate reason for wanting the work done. Do you need more room for the kids? Need more privacy? Hate your bathroom? Want a kitchen more conducive to cooking?
Then determine your budget. In an old house, over-runs are common due to unforeseen damage/conditions, so you should set aside about 15-20% from your total budget for this purpose. Hold this “cushion” in reserve for use if changes must be made. You should make decisions on your selections early, and try to have them either onsite before work begins, or be in production by the manufacturer during the initial phases of the project. Some special order items can take weeks for delivery, and you do not want to hold up your own job. Make as many decisions you can about the project beforehand.
Collect photos from magazines, review Consumer Reports Magazine, visit showrooms and flooring stores. Dream big and then be as specific as possible during the planning process, but try to be realistic about your budget. beforehand, as changes “mid-stream” can be very expensive, and throw the schedule into disarray.
Last, try to have fun with your project, and personalize it to you and your family. This will ensure you will be pleased with the results.