As architects with extensive backgrounds in construction, LOhSE2 is often retained to work with design professionals to review construction documents for design problems, manufacturer equipment of materials compliance, trade standards and building code compliance, and proper implementation in the field. Services may also include assisting with the development of bid packages, the review of subcontractor proposals and agreements, often working with the client and his or her attorney preparing contracts and scopes, and assist with the selection of qualified general and subcontractors, companies and personnel for a particular project. LOhSE2 also assists their clients with the establishment of budgets, as well as providing limited quality control assistance (construction inspections) during the construction process to check to see if work is being performed in accordance with the construction documents, agreements, manufacturer’s requirements and code compliance. All of this is done in an attempt to reduce problems in the future.
Our Construction Inspection Process
Onsite inspections of new construction projects are made by LOhSE2’s experienced and trained construction inspectors at specific stages during the construction process. Inspections include all building envelope components specializing in water proofing issues. For buildings that have below-grade components, we prefer to perform a water proofing inspection on the substructure. A written report is furnished to the project superintendent along with digital photographs that indicate items that require corrective work. To enhance quality control the superintendent “closes the loop” by performing the corrective work, initialing the checklist form and forwarding the corrective work form to our office. A more formal report of the construction inspection is then prepared and all reports are archived for the length of the builder liability period.
All our construction monitors have many years of experience and numerous certifications.
Property Condition Assessment Reports (PCAR)
The Scope
To provide our clients with a professional understanding of the existing conditions at residential properties prior to or soon after purchase, LOhSE2 conducts non-invasive, non-destructive inspections of a property’s internal and external construction assemblies.
All work is performed by a licensed forensic architect and/or an ICC (International Code Council) Certified Building Inspector.
The PCAR is comprised of the following detailed summaries, which highlight the property’s overall condition and areas of concern:
- Overall physical evaluation;
- Rating of the condition of the various systems components;
- Photo documentation showing areas of deferred maintenance.
The Benefit
The benefit of the PCAR is a clear assessment of the property’s integrity, which helps our clients:
- Make purchasing decisions;
- Determine areas that are code deficient;
- Accurately plan required short-term budget expenditures and long-term cost reserve requirements based on the documented areas of concern;
- Develop a long-term project plan for the property.
Our clients find the PCAR report to be an invaluable tool in their decision making.