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Originally posted this in the Business section, but got only one response, so I’m putting it in the General Discussion in hope it will generate more response: Haven’t been around for a while, and when I was I probably had a different handle. Anyway, I don’t think there’s a better place to answer my question. I’ve been asked to submit a bid for acting as a contracted consultant to various local social service agencies which oversee and pay for housing rehab construction. This would entail everything from initial site inspection and preparation of a “scope of work” document, to specification-design-cost estimation and “general oversight and site inspections”, including final approval of completed work prior to payment. Rehab project costs would fall into three categories: under $1500, up to $5000, and over $5000, and I have been asked to state a bid price for my services for each of these categories in two distinct phases: one being the “Investigation and Design Phase”, the other being “Construction Inspection”. Two final categories address design and inspection of access ramp projects (AWD projects). I have only the slightest idea how to go about valuing my work in this manner, even though as a builder I’ve done them all. I’m used to just including them as overhead expences and not actually calculating their value. My initial thought is to quote a fixed fee–for investigation and design services–as a percentage of the category cost (e.g.: a fixed cost of say $150 for projects $1500 and less, etc.), and a per visit cost for construction inspection. Any strategies or other suggestions (books, articles, orgs., etc.) would be very welcome, especially with regard to typical percentage prices for these types of services. I’ve been given two weeks to get this bid in. Thanks in advance. Dan |
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I'd find out what 'building consultant' fees were in your area and use that number as a starting base
Good Morning.
I do a bit of consulting on the side, and I bill it by the hour. If anyone, be they a private homeowner or a business, wants to know what I charge, I tell them there is a $$$.$$ retainer for big jobs, and If I trust them, I'll do the work on spec. I won't tell you what I charge, but suffice it to say that it is a professional rate for professional services. I have traded restaurant credit, etc. for work.
Alot of people aren't aware of the logical construction sequences, material differences, and sometimes I become a quasi designer, if not for suggesting what I think is an appropriate material, but because they were not aware of that particular material.
If you offer a range of services on your business card, or make clear to your potential client just whay you will and won't do, you'll be protected. Scope of work, drawings, and contact lists are a few of the things I would offer in a job file which is delivered upon final payment. Then the client has everything in one place. You have given them everything they need to get the project done, without having to demo anything and get dirty. A nice change for some of us that are tired of breathing dust.
I would advise to keep a standard liability policy, though as a consultant, you should have a clause in your agreement, that you are NOT the builder, and are NOT liable for the execution of the work suggested, and acted ONLY in the partial capacity of their designer and consultant.
Good luck. rg