Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do you handle the design, plans and permit process for my project?Although we do not provide design services, we do work with professional architects and engineers, and only with architect provided plans. However, our services do include obtaining all permits needed to perform remodeling projects. If you do not yet have an architect, we are happy to provide you with several referrals for architects and engineers. 2. How does estimating and bidding work?a) After an appointment is made to review the project b) Next, we provide a free consultation to discuss your plans. A preliminary estimate with its estimated cost provides a basis for further clarification of the details that would be included in a more detailed cost analysis. c) Once we are selected as the contractor for the project, we require a $1,000 deposit to provide the cost analysis. This step involves scheduling site visits with the client, architect, and our preferred subcontractors to develop the final cost and contract agreement. d) After signing the contract, we then begin the pre-construction process and services. 3. Can you select materials, finishes and fixtures for your remodeling project?Yes, we often help our clients select the various products needed for remodeling. At the time of your consultation, we have a thorough discussion with our clients about the full scope of the work, including floor/tile covering, appliances, window/doors, interior/exterior paint, etc. We can also help make sure that these items fit your design and budget. We have extensive experience with many of the products, which have performed very well in the past for our clients. 4. How are the costs of a project developed?We use the “Time & Materials” (T&M) method for costing our remodeling projects, in which we charge by the hour, plus a fee. Typically, T&M rates are $50 - $80 per hours with a 20% fee on all labor, subcontractors and materials. Sometimes, remodeling projects are better suited for “fixed price”, in which we negotiate with the client a fixed contract amount prior to beginning a job. As the project progresses, we fine-tune our recommendations concerning subcontractors, materials and methods to help our clients and their designers realize the highest satisfaction for their budget range. 5. What type of contract will I have to sign?A standard contract is use for our clients to sign. The contract is drawn from a variety of sources and uses relatively simple terminology and language. It also includes all the necessary federal and state required forms (i.e., Notice to Owner, Cancellation Notice, Lien Notice, etc.) 6. How do you invoice your customers?We email our invoices each week for work performed, cost of subcontractors and materials that has been completed previous to the billing date. Time and materials invoices provide detailed descriptions for all labor, subcontractors, materials and fees for the billing period. Our fixed-price projects, we provide detailed percentage-completed invoices, listing each job category and the percentage completed and billable to date. Since we invoice weekly for the work completed and for which our subcontractors and suppliers have already been paid, we request payments within 5 days from the date of the invoice. In addition, monthly statements are forward to clients that reflect a history of the client’s invoices and payments. 7. What are written change orders?Our company use written change orders to help clients’ track changes that occur between the budget and actual work needed, or changes requested by the client. We required clients to approve written change orders for each revision in the plans and scope of the work prior to the work being performed. Written change orders are binding and become apart of the original signed contract agreement. 8. Are subcontractors used on remodeling projects?Yes. We perform all rough and finished carpentry, while our subcontractors handle major trade work (e.g. concrete, plumbing, electrical, heating, drywall, etc.). We feel by utilizing outside subcontractors this will save our clients’ time and money, since major trade organizations have the expertise and equipment available as resources. Also we work very closely and efficiently with our subcontractors, managing our remodeling projects. Our specialized trade subcontractors have been associated with Whitney Collins Builders for many years and have become part of our extended “family”. 9. Do you have construction schedules for your remodeling projects?Yes, we provide all our clients with a construction schedule that includes all the work to be performed whether handled by our crew or subcontractors. In addition, we provide regular walk arounds for our clients throughout the duration of the remodeling project.
Whitney Collins Builder, Inc. License No. 692953 | |