A lot of project owners, especially those with limited funds, tend to opt out of getting an architect or engineer. Little do they know, this decision would likely cost them a lot more money than save.
We can’t blame them, though. After all, the standard professional fee isn’t skimp, and there’s a good reason for that.
Below are the main reasons why we recommend delegating the design and construction works to a trusted, licensed pro.
3 Main Advantages of Hiring Licensed Professionals for Your Projects
Contrary to popular belief, hiring licensed craftsmen actually helps you spend the most economical amount possible on a project. Here’s why your money spent on professional fees is worth it.
1. It’s Cheaper in the Long Run
We’re probably raising eyebrows by now but hear me out.
When an architect lays out your house plan carefully in his CAD software, he also considers the geography and climate. Also, he incorporates the provisions of the building code and responsible, sustainable practices.
All of these are taken into consideration as he designs functional spaces according to your needs and preferences. So, how does this lessen your expenses?
As early as the design phase, the architect can see possible conflicts that may arise during construction. On top of that, he can make recommendations to build around the obstacle, or sometimes, integrate it into the design.
Tricky contours? A huge tree in the middle of the lot and you’re hesitant to cut it down? Want more natural lighting and passive cooling to reduce power consumption?
A seasoned designer can work around those issues and help you manage expenses.
2. You Put a Warranty on Your Projects
This is probably the biggest chunk of the professional fees: liability.
In simpler terms, you’re not only paying for the dry seal and signature. Instead, the designer guarantees that he’ll take accountability for the structure’s quality for up to 15 years after the turnover.
What exactly does this mean? This means that if any damage in the structure appears within the 15-year warranty, and if found to be defects in construction or use of inferior materials, the overseeing professional will have to cover the damages.
This is after a thorough assessment, though, and both parties will have to discuss the terms. Options may include rectification works or monetary settlement (so the owner can find a different contractor to fix the damage).
That said, most professionals, if not all, will try to make things right at the first attempt, because who enjoys doing and re-doing stuff? If you don’t already know, labor and material costs developed a habit of frequently spiking these past few years.
Also, professionals aren’t so fond of putting their licenses at stake for malpractice.
Six years of studying and the rest of my career for a handful of dough? No, thank you.
3. It’ll Save You from the Hassle and Stress
You live with a lot less stress when you fork out for your architect or engineer’s professional fee because he does much of the thinking for you. You tell him how you’re going to use your space, the rooms that you need, and the design style that you want within a price range.
And the best part? A knowledgeable designer should be able to come up with power-saving features, such as natural lighting and ventilation. He could also cook up a system for rainwater collection or integrate repurposed materials into the non-structural parts.
They’d also take care of the boring stuff for you, like estimating, preparing the technical drawings, materials purchasing, and site supervision.
Basically, you pay them to take the weight off your shoulders, and guess what? They would gladly oblige.
After all, this is what they were trained for. All those years so that they can be stressed out on your behalf.
2 More Reasons to Hire Licensed Professionals for Your Projects
If those 3 mentioned above aren’t good enough reasons for you, here are 2 more.
1. For the Paperwork
Any infrastructure, private- or government-owned, requires a building permit if it’s new construction. To secure this permit, you need plans, specifications, and estimates that are prepared, signed, and sealed by a– you guessed it– licensed professional.
Is it really required, though?
Well, yes, because the government wants assurance that all structures are built according to national standards. Otherwise, the structure could be a public hazard.
Additionally, registered businesses with physical shops or offices may need to present a building permit as well. You may have to inquire with your local authorities for the details on these matters.
2. Higher Property Value
A well-designed house or building has a higher market value. We’re not just talking about the facade here but the soundness of the structure and the practical layout of spaces as well.
To understand this better, imagine yourself buying a house. How would feel about a house with oversized rooms (think waste of space)?
How about steep stairs with narrow runs? Or awkwardly low ceiling height? How likely are you going to buy the property?
You’ll find that properties like these are sold cheaply. This is because you’d likely need to spend a lot more revamping it!
The Takeaway
An architect’s drawing isn’t just a neat doodle of your dream house. They’ve spent at least five years learning how to come up with a plan within days (or hours) with your vision, the building code, and sustainable practices in mind, among other things.
So, have we convinced you, yet? Or do you still believe that hiring an architect or engineer is an unnecessary expense?
Let us know by leaving a comment. Promise, we won’t take it personally. :)
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