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Building Homes or Extensions/Extension - Who to start with?

Expert: Dave Johnson - 10/19/2007

Question
I am planning to add on to my house and I'm not sure if I need to contact a "designer", an "engineer", an "architect", or begin with someone else.
Also, if there is a list of people to contact to complete the entire job, please suggest an order you would contact them in. (I.E. First contact a designer, then a general contractor, ...)

Answer
Hi Jason,
Quite often a builder or general contractor will assist you in your design, eliminating the cost of designers.
Also, the G.C. or builder will usually take care of permits (building, plumbing, electrical etc.)
So, I would suggest going that route to start.
Be sure and ask the builder to provide you with a list of completed works and ask if the owners could be contacted.
You may want to check with your local code enforcement officer or building inspector to be sure you aren't required to have an architect involved.

Best of luck!!
Dave

Questioner's Rating

Rating(1-10)	Knowledgeability = 10	Clarity of Response = 10	Politeness = 10
Comment	Thanks Dave. I'll be sure to let you know how it works out. I plan to do some of the internal work myself, so be on the lookout for addition questions. Again, many thanks.