help: looking for a contractor for a home addition in Plano (Howe: general contractor, inspections)

[traveler68]

We are looking for a contractor for a home addition and remodeling project for our home we just bought last month in Plano. Looking for an experienced, fair company who is straightforward and professional.
Thanks.

[SouthernBelleInUtah]

Sounds like you might need an architect first. THey will recommend several contractors that they have worked with and were happy with. Plans done without an architect are usually not the best thought-out.

[traveler68]

Do you know an architect?

[SouthernBelleInUtah]

Originally Posted by traveler68

Do you know an architect?

Sorry, no, not in DFW. However, you can call the local branch of the architect society and ask who does remodels or you can look in the yellow pages for ads that mention it (that's how I found mine here). Then interview them, call some of their references, check them out online.

PS this is the national group, may have "locate" info: http://www.aia.org/

[traveler68]

Thanks, I will check them out...

[MckinneyOwnr]

You didn't mention what type of remodel you are doing, but if it involves plumbing, electrical, etc, then it's good to find a company/person that can handle as many of your needs as possible, so you don't have to subcontract that much of the work.

[SouthernBelleInUtah]

For a home addition, an architect is the best plan of action. In turn, s/he will guide the owner to a reputable general contractor who will have all the contacts s/he needs to perform all the work. I also liked that the architect consulted with a Professional Engineer about 2 structural points, the plans were stamped with his approval, and all city permits were pulled. We had a lot of inspections along the way but that is necessary for my comfort of mind. When I sell the house, it will easily pass inspection on the changes and anyone can look up the permits and see the passed inspections.

To the OP: I also paid my architect to review the work at several stages. It was well worth it IMO. It was in late 2005, involved digging out a basement, finished out the basement, redoing 3 rooms upstairs and the architect's total bill was somewhere around $5K. Different state, different years, your mileage may vary!

[DFW Lead Safe Housing]

If your home was built after 1977, pay no attention. If it was built before 1978, your contractor will need to be a Lead Safe Certified Firm. If the architect arranges for any of the work, they too will need to be a Lead Safe Certified Firm.