MEP Design Fees

[tlhoo]

Just started up my design consulting firm, looking for some rules of thumb for MEP design fees. What is typically used for creating proposals? A percentage of construction cost? $/SQ.FT? percentage of architectural fees?

Thanks.

 

[walkes]

The "kickback" to the architect is more like the consultants get 75% of the percentage fee associated with their component of the project.

ie. 10% of construction cost will be the design fee. Mech gets 7.5% of the construction cost of the mechanical stuff as their fee. Architect gets 2.5% of the construction cost of the mechanical stuff included in their fee as part of their coordination efforts, plus 10% of the architectural stuff.

We have had projects in the past that didn't proceed to construction where our fee would then be based on the most recent construction cost estimate. Our fee would be less the contract administration component or 80% of the total fee.

 

[AbbyNormal]

lol, at least you canucks only have to deal with QS's on fed government jobs, they are a fact of life down here and dip into the fees

Take the "V" out of HVAC and you are left with a HAC(k) job.

 

[electrical007]

Same question regarding Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing design fees for International Healthcare facilities (Hospitals) based on the % of construction cost. 6-7% would be my estimate.

Any comments on additional items to be considered when calculating design fees for International projects, Healthcare, Commercial and Residential?

 

[cry22]

Electrical oo7
A few things to consider on international work.
1. They typically start building from design development type drawings (around 60% CD's). No need for deep details. Their specs are basically model numbers, not much to speak of. You can compete really well if you understand the deliverables for the local practice. But expect to answer lots of questions during construction.
2. It can be a pain with the local codes. Make sure that your meetings are billed separately. You could get 5 meetings with the local fire Marshall.
3. Translation of local codes. Not to take at face value.
4. Avoid local consultants if you can, they expect you to be the expert, and they just play secretary. you better off having your own local office with local staff. They can do better translation.
5. Of course, travel expenses (on business class) is at the client's expense. Do not use lump sum for this.

 

[electrical007]

Cry22,
Thank you for the usefull information. We are registered in the country the RFP is in (UAE) and will be submitted as % of construction. Does a 6-7% design fee seem too low for a healthcare project over there, in your opinion?
thanks again