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When communicating with your contractor, avoid saying "I can get materials cheaper myself" as this disrupts warranty and supply chain accountability. Also, never state "just do it and I'll pay later," as verbal agreements can lead to disputes. Avoid saying "my neighbor got a lower quote" without context, as scope and quality vary. Instead, discuss concerns professionally. For pricing clarity, Lecut Construction recommends reviewing our internal article titled How To Choose The Right Gutters And Downspouts to understand material standards. Always put changes in writing to avoid misunderstandings.
The main difference between EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) and design-build lies in the contractual structure and risk allocation. In an EPC contract, the contractor takes full responsibility for all phases, including engineering, procurement, and construction, and typically guarantees a fixed price and completion date. This shifts most performance and cost risks to the contractor. Design-build, while similar in offering a single point of responsibility, often allows for more collaborative input from the owner during the design phase. Both methods streamline project delivery by integrating design and construction, but EPC is more common in large-scale industrial projects where strict performance guarantees are needed. For smaller commercial or residential projects, design-build can offer more flexibility. At Lecut Construction, we tailor our approach to match each project's specific requirements and risk profile.
The cost to design a building varies widely based on project complexity, size, and location. For a typical residential project in San Jose, CA, architectural fees often range from 8% to 15% of total construction costs. For commercial buildings, fees can be lower as a percentage but higher in absolute terms due to scale. Additional costs include structural engineering, MEP design, and permit fees. It is important to get a detailed scope of work from your architect before signing a contract. Lecut Construction can help you understand these costs by providing preliminary budget estimates during the planning phase. Always request multiple quotes and verify that the designer is licensed and insured for your specific project type.