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Posted by Info on November 26, 2008, 1:11 pm
>
>> What do you think would be a reasonable cost of having an architect draw
>> plans for remodeling a 54 sq. ft. bathroom to replace a bathtub with a
>> threshold-free shower, elevated toilet and a sink that I can wheel under?
>> I want as little alteration to the non-tub part of the floor as
>> practical. The shower will have a "lip" to hold the water in. One
>> contractor has said he can build a small movable ramp for my wheelchair
>> to cut down on how much "sloping" of the floor needs doing. I like that
>> idea.
>>
>> What are some phrases that a bad or sloppy architect might use in a
>> preliminary review? What questions can I ask him to test his mettle?
>> I've already found two in good standing with the AIA and the state
>> licensing board. I'm in Seattle. Thanks
>
>
>
> *Regardless of the experience and quality work of the architect you should
> not rely on his or her plans entirely. They are only a place to start
> from. You should also get feedback from contractors and suppliers as to
> what may suit your needs. Do research on your own to determine what you
> like and what you need before you hire someone to put it on paper. You may
> be able to find a contractor who also does design work.
I do not touch anyone without first checking the state licensing web site
and
will not commit to anything orally and will agree to the work only after
checking
real business references. I got the plans from a designer who then tried to
bilk me for a
$1k retainer. He's gone but I do have the floor plans.
Many insurance companies will not insure a contractor to work in a condo and
some of the ones who were here didn't know that, but I got an idea or two
out of them.
Proof of insurance must come to me directly from the contractor's insurance
company.
In the beginning I had estimates ranging from $15k for a wet room to $45k
for a castle. I ruled the first guy out based on his attitude and the last
on his price,
I wised up and went to Tub Cove, http://www.tubcove.com/, a place about 20
blocks away that
specializes in bathrooms. That estimate was $10k with the work taking
about a week.
The Homeowner's Club http://www.homeownersclub.org/on/overview.html here in
Seattle sent a guy who also said $10k. He, too, said about one week. I pay
them, not the contractor, and
they pay him if I'm satisfied. If I'm not satisfied, they "make me whole."
We've used them for a couple of $200 repairs
and they've been fine.
An architect for TubCove was here yesterday, looked over the place as I
explained what I
needed and said it shouldn't cost more than $10k. The Home Owners Club
architect will be here Dec 3.
Lowe's, Home Depot and Best Plumbing, http://www.bestplumbing.com/
are the next places I'll visit. They'll mostly have equipment, but HD will
have contractors'
lists so I can get some more input for free.
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