Proposal for large repetitive project
Proposal for large repetitive project
(OP)
Hello all. I have been asked by an HOA (Homeowner's Association) of a condo complex to provide a seismic retrofit proposal for a large development. The project consists of slightly over 150 separate structures of which there are 6 unique building layouts over 70 acres. So it amounts to about 26 duplicate (or near duplicate) structures of each unique floor plan. And the retrofit design is VERY straight forward.
I am accustomed to working on projects with one or two maximum structures at a time. So preparing a proposal on this has me concerned. I am concerned because I've read several of the threads here regarding pricing for the value of your work. I totally agree with not cheapening my value by discounting and have always done so. So here's my question...
Since there are duplicate (or virtually duplicate) structures is it expected to discount the duplicate structures? I'm actually wavering on this. On one hand I see that my time to design the duplicates will be minimal except for the setup work. On the other hand, I am wavering because of the liability risk I'm setting myself up for. You see, since this is an HOA I can very well open myself up to litigation even though I may not have had anything to do with their problem. Now, of course anyone can sue me. But I've had quite a bit of experience working for a forensic engineer that handled HOA litigation work. And I know that HOAs come down hard on companies.
On a side note, this project will be prepared in phases. So I've got that part handled if anyone is concerned on my capabilities to handle such a large job.
So here's the summary:
1) Do I propose to charge full value for 6 structures and discount for approximately 144 structures? or...
2) Do I propose to charge full value for each of the approximately 150 structures.
Thanks everyone for your input!
I am accustomed to working on projects with one or two maximum structures at a time. So preparing a proposal on this has me concerned. I am concerned because I've read several of the threads here regarding pricing for the value of your work. I totally agree with not cheapening my value by discounting and have always done so. So here's my question...
Since there are duplicate (or virtually duplicate) structures is it expected to discount the duplicate structures? I'm actually wavering on this. On one hand I see that my time to design the duplicates will be minimal except for the setup work. On the other hand, I am wavering because of the liability risk I'm setting myself up for. You see, since this is an HOA I can very well open myself up to litigation even though I may not have had anything to do with their problem. Now, of course anyone can sue me. But I've had quite a bit of experience working for a forensic engineer that handled HOA litigation work. And I know that HOAs come down hard on companies.
On a side note, this project will be prepared in phases. So I've got that part handled if anyone is concerned on my capabilities to handle such a large job.
So here's the summary:
1) Do I propose to charge full value for 6 structures and discount for approximately 144 structures? or...
2) Do I propose to charge full value for each of the approximately 150 structures.
Thanks everyone for your input!
Talk To Other Members
RE: Proposal for large repetitive project
RE: Proposal for large repetitive project
RE: Proposal for large repetitive project
Have you personally checked all of the 150 units to verify that they are all identical and will require identical retrofits?
Admittedly, that approach would be onerous, but instead how about checking on records of deviations, errors, repairs etc. that may be unique on some of the units, looking for any which could adversely affect the seismic project?
Your discounted rate for the follow-on condos should reflect the chances of having to open up the project again for a "one-off".
STF
RE: Proposal for large repetitive project
A limitation of liability clause with your client(s) is a reasonable request here.
RE: Proposal for large repetitive project
there is "value", and, there is "risk"
there was a time in my neck of the woods, not very long ago at all, when, as I was told... ( and I, silly me, believe it, but maybe you don't), in San Diego area when fully 100% of condo projects were involved in some kind of litigation -
lots of individual owners for your (and mine) single building design