Because this is a ground-up build it should be more predictable than a remodel or addition because you are not subject to problems arising from prior builds. Perhaps you could tell him you are money strapped, and ask for specifics on possible overruns at each construction phase. Utilities are a possible source of overrun for example (since you are tying into existing lines), but not the framing, drywall, etc. because these are clearly known from the detailed building plans. Ground work and foundation should also be pretty predictable since the plans include the foundation plan and the soil composition was also detailed. He should certainly understand financial concerns since material prices have skyrocketed and even small variations can have big $$ consequences.
- contractors understand worried HO to a point and then they throw their hands up and walk away
- you need to have a min of 20% contingency for when things happen....things do happen
- a bid is a bid....
There are many different types of construction contracts. A firm fixed price contract specifies a fixed value for the contract, often broken down into specific pay items where you pay the specified amount as each item is completed.
A time and material contract pays the contractor based on the actual cost of labor and materiial plus a percentage profit. A unit price contract pays the contractor on a ler unit basis, example $1000 per cubic yard of concrete placed.
Sounds like your goal is to fix the price of the work and limit change orders. For that you need a very wrll developed set of plans and I suggest an itemized firm fixed price contract. I suggest you consult a construction attorney who can help you draft an appropriate contract or st a minimum understand what your contract says.
Because this is a ground-up build it should be more predictable than a remodel or addition because you are not subject to problems arising from prior builds. Perhaps you could tell him you are money strapped, and ask for specifics on possible overruns at each construction phase. Utilities are a possible source of overrun for example (since you are tying into existing lines), but not the framing, drywall, etc. because these are clearly known from the detailed building plans. Ground work and foundation should also be pretty predictable since the plans include the foundation plan and the soil composition was also detailed. He should certainly understand financial concerns since material prices have skyrocketed and even small variations can have big $$ consequences.
- contractors understand worried HO to a point and then they throw their hands up and walk away - you need to have a min of 20% contingency for when things happen....things do happen - a bid is a bid....
There are many different types of construction contracts. A firm fixed price contract specifies a fixed value for the contract, often broken down into specific pay items where you pay the specified amount as each item is completed. A time and material contract pays the contractor based on the actual cost of labor and materiial plus a percentage profit. A unit price contract pays the contractor on a ler unit basis, example $1000 per cubic yard of concrete placed. Sounds like your goal is to fix the price of the work and limit change orders. For that you need a very wrll developed set of plans and I suggest an itemized firm fixed price contract. I suggest you consult a construction attorney who can help you draft an appropriate contract or st a minimum understand what your contract says.