New Hampshire Agreement with Architect to Design a Building for Fixed Fee In New Hampshire, when embarking on a construction project, it is crucial to establish a clear agreement with an architect to design the building. One common type of agreement is a fixed fee contract, where the architect charges a predetermined amount for their services. This ensures that both the client and the architect have a clear understanding of the project scope and costs from the outset. In this article, we will delve into the details of a New Hampshire Agreement with an architect for designing a building for a fixed fee, exploring its benefits and outlining the different types available. New Hampshire architects typically offer two main types of fixed fee agreements when designing a building. The first type is known as a Lump Sum Agreement, where the architect charges a set fee for the entire project. This type of agreement is commonly used for smaller, less complex projects with well-defined scopes, as it provides a straightforward cost structure. The lump sum fee encompasses all the architect's services needed to complete the design, including research, site visits, schematic design development, construction drawings, and overseeing the building's construction. The second type of fixed fee agreement is commonly referred to as a Percentage Agreement. In this arrangement, the architect charges a fixed percentage of the total construction costs as their fee. This type of agreement is often preferred for more complex or larger-scale projects with various design iterations, as it allows the architect to be more flexible with their compensation. From initial conceptualization to final completion, the architect's fee is determined based on the percentage agreed upon at the beginning of the project. When entering into a fixed fee agreement with an architect in New Hampshire, certain key elements should be included to ensure a comprehensive understanding between both parties. These include: 1. Scope of Services: The agreement should clearly define the architect's responsibilities, including the design phases they will be involved in, such as schematic design, development, construction drawings, and specifications. It is essential to outline the specific deliverables expected at each stage. 2. Project Timeline: The agreement needs to specify the project's duration, outlining critical milestones and deadlines for the architect's work. This will help keep the project on track and ensure timely completion. 3. Revisions and Additional Services: It is crucial to outline how revisions to the initial design or additional services requested by the client will be addressed. This will include provisions for additional fees or potential changes in the original fixed fee agreement. 4. Payment Structure: Clearly define the payment schedule, including anticipated installments or milestones when payments are due. This ensures a smooth cash flow for both the client and the architect throughout the project. 5. Termination Clause: Include provisions for terminating the agreement, stipulating conditions under which either party may terminate the contract and the required notice period. By understanding the various types of fixed fee agreements available in New Hampshire and considering the key elements to be incorporated in the agreement, clients and architects can establish a solid foundation for a successful building design project. Ensuring that both parties are aligned on project scope, fees, and expectations minimizes the potential for misunderstandings and promotes a collaborative working relationship.