order engineering report prior to signing (piers etc)?

oznow · Nov 05, 2007 4:07 pm

I am about to sign a contract with a builder. This builder is still about $4000 more expensive than the other, but it seems to me that he is okay. But will not be willing to pay more due to surprises.

As i mentioned previously the builder mention in the inclusion list that "if site classification worse than H or if piering is required than additional cost would apply". I am thinking to have the engineering report before the signing so that there will be no surprises.

1) Will the engineering report details the type of slab, number of piering if required etc?
2) How much is usually the report will cost?
3) What is the best way to talk to the builder about requesting the report first?

thanks.
ozn

HomeReview · Nov 05, 2007 4:09 pm

I would recommend you engage a third party geotechnic consultant to prepare an assessment of the block and give a copy to the builders you are shopping around for. That way you can ascertain the site costs early on in the process.

PhoenixStar · Nov 05, 2007 4:55 pm

You should cover all bases before signing with the builder. Otherwise once you sign, there is no going back and the possibility of losing any deposit paid.

Has anyone got any recommendations for a contractor to provide a survey for OZN?

Make sure there are no surprises regarding your site costs. Be as informed as you can before you enter into a contract...
Hope it all works out well....

Casa2 · Nov 05, 2007 5:08 pm

oznow,

Another option, that won't cost you a cent unless there is a site problem, is to state that "if site classificaiton is worse than H or if piering is required then the contract can be cancelled by the customer with a payment of $XXXX to cover builders cost for evaluation". This way you have a way out, the builder is not out of pocket and, most importantly, the builder and you have the same motivation.

The builder will also be more inclined to quote a competitive figure for any additional foundations.

Having said all this, some test up front would probably be a good idea. The money has to be spent anyway since the builder will want a reliable soil test. The contract clause is still useful in cas there are surprises.

My 2 cents worth.

Cheers,
Casa