What does BB do for you?
Base Built Services specializes in existing conditions (asbuilt) documentation. Because we do not design or provide any other CAD services, we can produce your drawings faster and for less than any other company.
Do you charge a retainer fee to begin work?
A retainer fee is required to begin work with Base Built Services. We charge a retainer fee because there are costs we incur at the start the project. All contracts are due upon receipt of the PDF's for final payment.
What are the drawings used for?
Existing conditions (asbuilt) documentation can be used as base drawings for renovation and remodel projects of all scale: documentation of historical structures, lease and marketing exhibits, asset management, BOMA calculation for leasable square footage, building and safety permit requirements and/or any other use a property owner may have for documentation of a structure.
Why do I need measurements? Can’t I use the old plans I have?
You need measurements for the same reason you cannot use your old plans. In construction, nothing is ever built how it is planned. Whether it’s ½” or 6” different from the construction documents, you will need accurate plans of what is existing to start your project. Occasionally, but rarely, there are set of asbuilt documents produced immediately after construction has been completed. If this is the case, you can feel confident in using those drawings. However, if you do decide to use an old set of plans, that aren't post-construction asbuilt, beware that the discrepancy from the plans you’re using to what is actually built in the field could end up costing you thousands of dollars in corrections once construction has begun. This number increases exponentially when the size and number of levels are factored in.
Can you work around access restrictions?
We understand that some projects have access restrictions. We will agree to work with limited and special access conditions. We will work around restrictions. As long as we can access these areas prior to the planned completion, we will be able to deliver the full set of drawings that were ordered.
How many days do you need on-site?
Typically 25 to 35% of the total project time is spent on-site.
Example - For a 5 day project - assume 1.5 days on-site, 3 days off-site then wrap up with a .25 day audit. Back to top
Do I need to be present while you measure my home remodeling?
No, but if you feel more comfortable being present we will welcome the company. Most often, clients meet us on-site and/or leave a key. We are insured for accidents and loss up to 2 million dollars per incident.
Can you measure occupied structures?
Yes, most of the structures we measure are occupied and operational at the time of measurement.
How do you work with confidential/privacy related issues?
We have worked for very private citizens and celebrities on high profile castles and mansions, on top of secret designs, restricted military facilities and religious organizations. We will execute a non-disclosure agreement at your request.
The structure is or might be unsafe, will you work in it?
If there are any areas in the structure that can be avoided safely, we can work on your project. We need to be apprised of any safety issues upon the quote stage.
Can I refer my client to you to sign the contract?
Yes. We will prepare care of contracts.
I was told I need the structural information. What does this mean?
You will need information related to the foundation of the structure, the framing of the walls, ceiling and roof and any other objects relevant to the structural integrity of the building. We can document this through multiple plans you will find in the “Services Tab.”
The City/Architect/Engineer, etc. told me I need certain drawings. Can I send that list to you?
Yes. We will review what you have been given and produce a quote to those specifications.
We have a contract that you must sign in order to work with us. Is this possible?
Yes. However, we also need you to sign our contract.
There is a dropped ceiling that can be manually removed by your staff. We understand that you do not normally perform this task. If the areas needing documentation are minimal, will you remove ceiling tiles?
Yes.
Will your staff wear helmets and safety suits if needed?
Yes.
Clause: The client must guarantee safety of all the areas to be measured. We must be informed about areas that require safety suits or protective gear prior to the scheduled start date. You will need to provide safety equipment at your expense.
How do you measure?
We utilize state of the art lasers, Windows * based tablets, and our own software to acquire 3D field data in real time. The precision gained from using this equipment allows us to produce a deliverable accuracy within a ½” tolerance that translates directly into AutoCAD©, Sketchup and/or Revit©.
What areas do you service?
We work nationwide and will travel abroad as required. Our primary markets are the Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco and Santa Barbara regions.