NFT: Architect drawings and design question

They will be directly contracted by you, and they will do a "Design Build" with an architect they will bring in themselves...

Any of your neighbors done work recently? Ask them. At least that GC will know your HOA/town regulations

and can't force you to use an architect/engineer. Are you doing the work yourself or hiring a contractor?

If you're hiring someone, they can sketch it up for you as part of the bid, with the added benefit of maybe laying it in a way that hasn't occurred to you.

If you're doing it yourself, take pencil to paper and go to town. You'll only need egress if you'll have a bedroom down there, if you're going to frame the interior walls, you'll need fire blocking but otherwise it's pretty simple.

can be different, but I had my basement finished, I had a contractor do it, never needed an architect or even any official plans.

the contractor and I discussed what I wanted to do, which is eaiser than yours since I didn't want any rooms, just wanted, drop ceiling, finished walls, heat, carpeting, and some closets/built-in shelves.

the town inspected the framing, the electric (so before the walls were finished) then did a fire inspection as final, though there were already properly wired smoke/CO detectors.

If your municipality doesn't require it, you'd only probably need drawings to make sure the contractors knows exactly what you want.

but I wouldn't hire an architect to do it. like others (Oghwa?) have mentioned I'd just draw the layout you want.

before a turning a small bedroom into a bathroom (and former tiny bathroom into laundry room).

It really was a smart decision. Gave three different "layouts" and was def worth the approx $400.

The contractor knew exactly what we wanted and there were very few surprises...........

But it's never a bad idea to talk to an architect or a general contractor you trust before making a decision. If you have a relationship with a contractor, preferably the one you'd like to do the work, you can talk to them to see if they have someone they work with and can provide you with what you need. Do you want just permit drawings? Do you want design options - multiple layouts / configuration? Finishes / lighting, etc.?

If you want just permit drawings and a code-compliant design you can probably work with the contractor and their architect. However, you may want to hire an architect yourself if you want design options.

I have a few references located in northern NJ if you're interested. But you may want someone more local. I'm located in the city and am probably not the best fit for your project.

Shoot me an email if you have a second, I can explain further.
I am located in Westchester County

thanks again - any help/advice appreciated

Must get that correct. Maybe do that - have done properly first. Tape off intended interior walls....on floor..

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