RENOVATIONS

If you are planning a major remodel, consider whether you will need an architect or designer or if a contractor alone will do. Generally, if you are planning to do structural work that involves building or removing walls, you will want to call an architect. Architects are usually the priciest of the three options, but they can draw plans acceptable to building department officials, solicit bids, help you select a contractor, and supervise the contractor's work to ensure that your plans and time schedule are met. Architects must be licensed, and some even double as contractors.

Designers can do much of the above, but if stress calculations need to be made, designers need to engage state-licensed engineers to design the structure and sign the working drawings. Most states do not require designers to be licensed.

Contractors can also be skilled draftspeople, able to draw working plans acceptable to building department officials. They are limited, however, in the same way that designers are.

Many architects are members of the American Institute of Architects, and many designers belong to the American Institute of Building Designers. Certain home areas, such as kitchens and baths, have their own associations. Each association has a code of ethics and sponsors continuing programs to inform members about the latest building materials and techniques.

Architects and designers may charge for time spent in an exploratory interview, while a contractor may simply charge a fee or percentage of the project. For plans, you will probably be charged on an hourly basis. Architects and designers also often will agree to actively supervise construction, usually for either an hourly or a set fee based on a percentage of the project. Take advantage of this offer. With any of these professionals, make sure they describe the scope of their services in writing before performing any work.

When discussing a home renovation project with a home remodeling contractor, inevitably the issue of licensing comes up. At the front of his or her portfolio, the contractor may have a copy of a state license, along with a print-out showing a clean record of consumer complaints, penalties, or fines. A few remodeling contractors may even make a big issue of licensure, saying that this is proof positive of a good local reputation and that superior work on his part is guaranteed.