The move from builder or remodeler
to a design/build company is a natural
progression. Most contractors don't
hesitate to add a finished basement or
a deck to a customer's prepared plans.
Similarly, few hesitate to design a
remodeled bath or small kitchen.
From there, the next step may be
designing a major addition or even a
whole house from scratch. Such
growth may proceed smoothly and
seem natural, but there are many pitfalls
that a contractor would be wise
to consider.
When does a builder or remodeler
who does a little design work
become a "designer"? Can a
builder/designer legally advertise
design services? Can a designer
who is not an architect get insurance
against "errors and omissions"
in design? Can a
design/builder