WHY DO YOU NEED AN ARCHITECT?
To plan a home or office, why consult an architect? For numerous
reasons -- from aesthetics and accuracy to costing and engineering.
 An
architect can co-ordinate the activities of different tradesmen
involved in building, like plumbers, electricians, carpenters.
etc., so they may perform their functions in the right sequence.
An architect is academically and professionally trained to be
aware of all the elements of building, like aesthetics and structure,
engineering, plumbing, electricity, etc.
The architect is well versed in functional aspects like placing
plug points, ventilators, etc., and can work according to your
needs. For instance, if your family has short people, it won't
help to have switches placed high on the wall. It is a misconception
that only large-scale constructions need an architect. Even
if you are building a hutment , an architect can help you minimise
costs.
If you are not careful in hiring a reputed contractor, he may
leave you with only a skeletal workforce once 70 percent of
the construction is complete. An architect can guide your payments
to the contractor, so the work is completed accurately, within
the time frame. An architect can help schedule operating costs.
Choosing the Right Architect
- Before you hire an architect, look at some of his/her work.
- Inspect project sites and take references from at least
three former clients
- Find out exactly what services the architect or the firm
can offer and take it down in writing.
- Do not judge the architect by the fee charged, either high
or low. Visit the architect's office during the course of
work, which will help you assess progress. Keep all agreements
in writing but trust the architect you hire.
What Should You Look For
In A Builder?
 Buying
an apartment or building a house is a lifetime investment. So
choose a builder who is reliable, who can deliver the goods
he promises and on time. A builder should be able to give you
real value for money. Be sure of the credentials of the builder.
Talk to residents of apartment blocks built by him and ascertain
details like:
- If he has promised them plastic emulsions on the walls,
has he really given them that or has he used ordinary distemper.
- He could have assured them good copper wiring but since
the wiring is concealed he could have used cheaper quality
wire.
- Has he delivered items like bathroom fixtures according
to the prices he charged. The same goes for every little thing
that goes into making a house, from the wiring to the tiles,
from the doors to sanitaryware. Most agreements with builders
specify that payments should be made according to the stages
of construction. If the builder has taken up more than one
project at a time and you have paid for a certain stage, he
may siphon your money to a different project. Your money could
be held up, your apartment may be completed much after the
time frame. Legally there is a penalty clause which binds
the builder to pay you a certain sum of money if he doesn't
complete the work in the scheduled time. Vice versa, you are
liable to pay the builder a fine if you don't pay him according
to schedule.
- When a builder shows you the plans for the proposed project,
ascertain that the project is legally sanctioned.
- See if the builder makes arrangements for maintenance,
once the construction is complete.
- Ensure that all agreements with the builder are in writing.
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Choose Your Business Centre
According To The Size of Your Staff And Work Load...
 Normally
a Business Centre is used as a branch office by firms operating
on a low profile or if they have few staff on the rolls. If
you have a large staff it is better to have your own premises.
Points to remember while taking up
space in a Business Centre : Locate a business centre
as close as possible to your target customers. Allot space
to the number of staff you have, then hire space accordingly.
Check the services offered, both secretarial and communication.
For eg., if the centre has just one or two phones it may mean
waiting in a long queue to make a call. See if you can get
a connection on your desk and check how much you pay for each
call. Direct dialing facility is an added advantage. Check
for STD/ISD facilities. Don't be taken in by the low rent
charged, since you might have to pay extra for every service
availed. Look for hidden perks like how many free calls or
faxes are included in the membership fees. Look for extra
services provided like Air / Rail bookings, hotel reservations,
etc..
Most business centres religiously close shop at 5.30 or 6
pm. See if this suits your business. Ask how many days notice
you have to serve before vacating. Insist on the shortest
period. Read all terms and conditions carefully before you
take up space.
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