Bid: An offer from a contractor to build your project for a fixed price, based on the cost he estimates from your drawings & specifications. Building Permit: Written permission from the local building department for a contractor to begin a construction project. (Homeowners should only apply for a building permit if they are going to do the work.) Change Order: A written agreement …

The contractor is not licensed and/or insured. He can’t provide you with a list of satisfied customers. The contractor will only accept cash payments. The contractor solicits business door-to-door. (This is often accompanied by high pressure sales tactics, intimidation, and threats.) You can’t verify the contractor’s name, address, phone number or credentials. You are asked to buy the building permit. …

Ask your contractor the following: What kind of warranty do you get and what does it cover? (All work should be under warranty for 1 year from the day you move in or you close on your loan – whichever comes first.) Are there any preventive maintenance tips? (Ask your contractor for a copy of “Your New Home and How …

Turn-key Contract: This type contract is when you hire one company to be the general contractor and build your entire project.  The general contractor is responsible for coordinating & paying all others involved.  You will be responsible for a down payment (also known as earnest money) and for the permanent financing or mortgage.  Any scheduled payments to be made during construction should …

Although specifications can be overwhelming to the average person, giving more information to your designer means he/she can create a more accurate representation of your vision. More information put in the specifications helps to eliminate any “guess work” by the contractors. One should always get at least three bids. Complete specifications help keep everyone bidding the same thing. (This way …

It is wise to check with the local authorities to see what is required in your city or county area. House plans along with written specifications act as part of your contract and help keep “misunderstandings” to a minimum. Remember: “A picture is worth a thousand words.” Plans developed from Butcher Drafting Service, LLC will help you and the contractors …

Overall Plan What size & style house is suitable for your neighborhood? If you have chosen a lot, choose a plan well suited with the other houses in the area. If choosing a stock plan, do you like the outside elevations of the house? It may be best to start with a floor plan you like, because a good designer …

The contractor’s name, address, telephone number, and e-mail address A detailed description of the work to be performed. Attachments might include: house plans, specifications, plot plan, etc. A timetable for the construction, including approximate start and completion dates The total price of the project and payment schedule Detailed specifications Who will obtain and pay for necessary permits and other approvals …

There are many things to consider when deciding on whether to build or remodel. The following list will help in your decision: A new home may allow you to use better and/or later technology products that will aid in saving maintenance and/or energy costs. A remodel project may transform the appearance of the entire house or just one room. Make …

All plans from Butcher Drafting Service, LLC are protected under U.S. copyright law. Simply put, this means the design of the homes, the blueprints, drawings, artwork, and any other materials embodying the design belong to Butcher Drafting Service, LLC. The design is an “architectural work” and includes the overall form as well as the arrangement and composition of spaces and …