What to charge -rebuild N.O.

8quarter | Posted in Business on September 19, 2005 01:46am

I had a call from some people in Colorado that want me to drive from Tenn to Slidell LA to redo their home. They were told by there insurance agent that it was up to them to get a contractor and they know me from my work in Colorado.
I advised them to get with their local building dept to make sure that everything would be Ok. Then we could talk
I’m not out to hose anybody. But I ain’t going there for free. I have an hourly number in mind but am unsure about gas and lodging. Since there could be such a fluctuation in it.
When I was a road warrior it was 45.00 an hour, 45 cents a mile and 60.00 a day per diem.
I ‘ve seen ads where some companies are hiring and paying a whopping 10.00 and hour to go there.
I’d like to hear some other thoughts on this.

Replies

Floss | Sep 19, 2005 02:38am | #1
8quarter,

Charge what you would normally charge for your work in TN. Add in your traveling expenses and room and board as these are expenses that you would not normally incure at your home shop. I would not think that is gouging. Your clients will understand and probably won't bat an eye since they have someone whose work they can trust.

If they will pony up the expenses then it seems like a win/win situation.

Check your insurance policy to make sure it covers you out of state for liability and tools. You may need to purchase some sort of supplemental insurance that would also add to your rate.

J.P.

http://www.jpkfinefurniture.com
mikegagne | Sep 19, 2005 03:10am | #2
8, I agree with JP and think you should add in your time to "return to normalcy" trips home. The devastation you will encounter and the complete disorganization of the location for at least 6 months will wear on you. I worked thru the Hurricane Iniki disaster on Kauai some years ago and I can tell you its a stress load that brings you down after a while and the trips back to home are quite necessary-think "conjugal visits". aloha and do enjoy the comeraderie that develops around the shared effort, mike gagne
triplenet | Sep 19, 2005 06:15am | #3
I just returned from Pascagoula, MS from helping a friend remove interior trim, doors, cabinets, drywall and insulation damaged from the storm surge. I was listening to the radio on and off and it sounded like Slidell was hit really bad.
Materials may be a big issue, both availability and cost. Figure on longer than normal time if you are to pick up materials. Lodging will probably be a big issue if you can't stay in the house. Is power and water service restored? The homeowner bought 2 window AC units so we could sleep in comfort (2 story home).
It was satisfying, although long days. There are a lot of people who need help. You have to experience it to get the full effect of the damage and smell.
Having said the above, I would give it a go, but be aware that it's not like a normal worksite and will take more time due to the conditions.

Bob
Ricks503 | Sep 19, 2005 08:52pm | #4
I agree with all of the responses so far, But If I were you, I would also post the question over in Breaktime and get some Contractor responses.

1 - measure the board twice, 2 - cut it once, 3 - measure the space where it is supposed to go 4 - get a new board and go back to step 1
mapleman | Feb 18, 2006 08:04am | #5
8Q,

Hi,

I live about 20 miles from Slidell just across the state line in MS. I was born and raised in Slidell, my mom lives about 8 miles from lake ponchartrain - had 7 feet of water in her house. I know what you are up against because we are in the process of trying to get my mom's house back together. Make sure you can find a place to stay - the hotels (if you can find one) are raping people on the price. A lot of people are staying in tents or fema trailers, etc. Go to http://www.slidell.la.us for the city of slidell official website. You will want to call ahead and get any info you might need. I know for a fact that only electricians and plumbers that are licensed with the city are allowed to perform work in the city. I'm not sure about general contractors. You will need permits for rebuilding (they are free if you can belive it). Demolition is allowed by the homeowner, but most of the clean-up crews have moved on - you may have to pay to have it removed if the house hasn't been gutted already. Do yourself a favor and get a tetnus (did I spell that right?) shot. Lots of nasty stuff floating around in that water. For the most part, business is as usual, there are fast food restuarants open and gasoline is plentiful (2.35/gal). There is a Lowe's and a home depot in Slidell, along with your regular hardware stores. Shingles and sheetrock are available for pickup in most places, expect a 4-6 week wait if you need it delivered. If you want shingles delivered and put up on the roof with one of those conveyor things, expect a 2 month wait. I'll be glad to help you find out any info you need, just drop me a line - and good luck.

lee