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when do i have to have an architect?

10 years ago

We have limited funds ($35K) with which to remodel our 1969 split level on the West River in Anne Arundel Co. MD. Do we dare attempted to renovate, remodel, or close in patio without hiring an architect?

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Comments (3)

PRO
Tree of Life Stairs, LLC
10 years ago
It's going to depend greatly on the scope of the project and how comfortable you are with the project you are undertaking. An architect will (should) know all the codes as well as know what should be included in the drawings.
prencis thanked Tree of Life Stairs, LLC
PRO
sstarr93
10 years ago
If you have $35K to spend, you might want to invest around $250 - $500 in an initial consultation with an architect, to make sure that what you want to do will be possible, will meet code, and any gotchas such as bearing wall problems, drainage, etc. you might encounter.
If nothing you intend to do requires "work", removing walls, bumping out, or other major structural changes, then in my (humble) opinion, you do not have to use an architect.

Although I design, I have consulted architects.
But $35K is a very limited budget, and you should guard every penny from being spent in a direction it doesn't need to be.
prencis thanked sstarr93
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jeannemckinley
10 years ago
You could also contact a Design-Build firm, who would be able to roll design fees and knowledge into the total price. Get references from friends or neighbors whose judgement you trust, and interview at least three. They should give you options within your budget and time frame. Good luck!
prencis thanked jeannemckinley

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