In order to give each prospective client a better understanding of the design-build-balance process, we have compiled the following answers to the most commonly asked questions about Design-Build-Balance contracting. In addition to these answers, EDG, Inc. welcomes any questions you may have, and we encourage you to contact us. Please click on any question below to view the corresponding topic.
Why should I choose EDG, Inc. as my Design-Build-Balance contracting firm?
Design-Build-Balance is our process and our method of contracting, that is customized to fit each client's particular needs for architectural and construction services. The design-build-balance approach to Renovation and New Construction blends together the professional design and construction expertise. Simply put it is a one-stop shop. One company handles both the design and the construction process, which means the client enjoys greater continuity of services and single point of contact. By efficiently combining these phases of designing and construction services will save our clients time and money, and will help them become more of a partner with us, in the remodeling/ new construction process of their project. |
Why should I choose EDG, Inc. Renovations and New Homes?
EDG Inc.’s approach to remodeling is different. Design-Build-Balance is EDG, Inc.'s most efficient approach to contracting. Our extensive expertise and experience in design-build-balance process most often translates into peace of mind and satisfaction for our clients throughout the building process. EDG, Inc. will meet your requirements for space and function, design and decorating taste, and budget maintenance. Because we have complete in-house control of all design and construction processes and schedules, we will provide a single point of contact and accountability from conception through design and completion of construction. The most effective contracting relationships are built on mutual trust and respect, combined with a sincere desire for a good construction experience. A non-adversarial, non-hostile relationship is much easier and works best on all parties. Since our design and construction teams work together in the design phase to ensure the best value for your dollar, the best constructability, and lack of errors and/or omissions in the drawings, you have our turnkey assurance that there will be no hidden or unexpected costs. Most of our design-build-balance clients have responded very favorably to this process, and have showed a high level of satisfaction with the delivery of this process. Some of our clients have chosen EDG, Inc. several times over in order to complete their Renovation or New Construction projects. |
How do I get the Design-Build-Balance process started and what are the steps involved?
Starting a new project is an exciting time for both EDG, Inc. and the client. Before we meet, you need to do your part too. Here are a few thoughts on how to get prepared for our first meeting:
EDG, Inc. representatives will meet with you to define your needs, ideas and requirements. The first initial meeting is at no cost to you. Be prepared to list your objectives in order of priority. Tell us what you like or do not like about your existing home, and what you need or want to improve. During this meeting, we will like to talk with you about your stylistic preferences. Please do not be shy or embarrassed to bring your designer magazines, pictures or other clippings. This stage makes for a great “meeting of the minds” and a great starting point. Please be aware that additional meetings may be required and that we will try to minimize the demands on your time. Following the initial meeting and provided that we both feel” the fit” is right, we will analyze your requirements and draft preliminary options for space planning. Once a design has been agreed upon, we will write the scope of work, create a schedule, prepare a list of the items you will need to choose and provide you with a fixed contract price. Should the estimated costs exceed your budget, you will benefit from our experience as we work together to value engineer the project in order to develop a realistic budget objective. |
What other issues need to be taken care of prior to the start of Construction?
EDG Inc. attends to the acquisition of all necessary approvals and permits from governing officials, assuring building code compliance, and handles payment of all related fees. You, the client, are generally required to obtain all necessary neighborhood or subdivision review boards and association approvals, etc., but we are available to assist you with those as well as may be necessary. |
How does the Construction Process works?
EDG Inc. will advise and assist you with all finish and fixture selections. We will keep you fully apprised of what is happening at all stages of work. Our commitment is to make the construction phase as enjoyable and as little disrupting of your life as possible. All the work projects are closely managed by us, as well as by the project manager assigned to your project. All of this organization is set in place to assure the best management of schedule and quality control, and to allow the least possible disruption of the clients’ daily routine. |
What is the EDG, Inc. Warranty Policy?
We have a 60-90 days call back policy. The 60-90 days policy means that after the completion of the project, we will contract you to see if there are any issues that may need our attention. We warrant our work and materials for one (1) full year after sign off and completion of work; some equipment and materials are warranted for a longer period by their respective manufacturers' warranties. |
How do I know that I am getting a competitive Price?
It all depends on the Pricing Plan you are looking for your project. There is the Fixed Price Contract, an all-inclusive and the Cost Plus contract, that is defined as we go for larger projects. Please see below our brief explanation of each Price Contract Plan. We maintain an "open book" policy with our clients. Specifically, our clients get to see the contractors’ prices for their entire project for each phase of the construction. We believe that EDG, Inc. must give the best and most competitive pricing in order to be awarded a design-build-balance contract. We realize that if we do not price work competitively, we will lose business to other contractors in the area. EDG, Inc. uses realistic allowances as defined through our knowledge of your needs from the outset of the project. On the Fixed Price plan, our clients know their cost before construction begins. The only exceptions are change orders made electively by the client, or a severe undiscovered, unforeseen condition of your house (e.g. termite damage, rotten structure, etc). The value of EDG, Inc.'s single source of contact and turnkey solution guarantees the completeness and code-compliance of the scope of the work considered. The total contract sum is all-inclusive, without gaps between the contractor's and designer's responsibilities. Your time and effort are minimized because you are dealing with an expert, professional, competent and responsible contractor. We are committed to working hard and smart to organize our client's time and involvement in the process. There is a value associated with your peace of mind in knowing that we are always looking out for your best interests. We are not the lowest-cost general contractor in the Atlanta area. If price is your only consideration, most likely we are not a good "fit" for each other. Our commitment is to perform only work of the highest quality, with skilled and expert craftsmen, experienced trades people, that usually costs more to produce. There is a lot of truth in the old saying: You get what you pay for”. Likewise, our service-oriented delivery systems involve higher levels of management and time. If you deserve and demand this level of response, we believe EDG, Inc.'s construction services and practices are of exceptional value to you. |
What choices of Pricing Contract do I have?
Fixed Price Contract. The majority of our work is performed under a Fixed Price Contract. This works well on smaller and well-defined projects. As the projects grow in scope and complexity, there is a point when it is best for the client and EDG Inc. to perform the work under the Cost Plus Contract method. Cost Plus Contract. The scope of work determines the size of the project and ultimately the best pricing solution. As the project grows in size (over $200,000) and if there is considerable renovation work to the old structure, it becomes harder to predict the realistic budget outcome. This results in contingencies being added to the estimate and allowances for the unknown selections. Most of the large and complicated projects are more likely to have changes and unforeseen conditions, which also means additional change orders. For this very reason, the best pricing on larger projects is provided by us as Cost Plus pricing contract. This way the client receives a reduced mark up by sharing in the risk. Our excellent job cost, estimate and projections, provide a constant update to the client, and makes this a win-win solution for the larger project. |
Which Contract is right for you?
We can answer that question for you on an individual basis and would be pleased to do so, once you contact us. |
