Design/Build Options

[tyha]

I want to know if anyone has any info/advice about getting into design/build work. We do strictly comm/industrial about a million a year and we want to look into what this could bring our customers. I have 2 other companies that I bid against that offer it and one is way larger than us but the other doesn't do our volume. Where do I need to look for info, what would be the first step, whats involved in the d/b process with projects ranging from $20,000 to $150,000. Any info/advice is greatly appreciated.

 

[satcom]

When your considering design, build your first consideration may be are you qualified, and or licensed if your state requires it to do design work, and do you have professional liability that will protect you doing a design, build project. Many states you need a professional seal to do even the most basic design work, If we submitt plans to the construction department, the first thing they look for is the seal, no seal, no review, in the past we were able to get away with even medium size projects, now many of the states, and local goverments, are looking at the liability issue, if they accept a plan set, without a professional seal, and issue a permit, they may be exposed to some liability.

We use a professional engineer, for the design , it makes the build much easier. Read up on your state, and local requirements, good example is in my state we were able to do multi family, without sealed professional plans, now anything over 2 family requires a professional seal.

 

[mdshunk]

Agreed. The only design/build firms in my market area all have PE's on staff. In fact, part owners. I'm sure this played into the decision.

 

[cadpoint]

NC opened it up A bit...

NC opened it up A bit...

I Know your dealing with a State GS.

The Terms are called Formal and Informal Construction Contract.
These three deal with State Construction where the total does not exceed 300,000, (informal)/layperson designing - building ....

I can't find but I know this exists, the Dollor value placed on constrcution of Private Residences / Business that don't require a seal. This of course is doing the same but for the State office of construction.

GS133-1.1 (a&b): Defines when an architect or registered engineer, by dollar value or by type of work, is required to prepare plans, conduct regular inspections and provide a Certificate of Compliance.

GS133-1.1(d): When an architect or engineer is not required in above, the Owner shall require a certificate of compliance with the State Building Code from the city or county inspector for the specific trade or trades involved. Except: this requirement shall not apply on projects wherein the plans and specifications are approved by the State Construction Office, and the completed project is inspected by the State Construction Office…".
GS 133-3: Competitive specifications are required. If a brand name is used, then at least 3 acceptable brands, or as many as are available, shall be specified.

You can insert and Back search here with those GS numbers:
http://www.ncleg.net/

Both 300 and 400 of NC SOC state building code came up alot in my searching.