FAQs:
Construction

I want to build in Costa Rica. How do I get started?

In order to build in Costa Rica, you will need to submit an application for a construction permit. This application must be presented by a licensed architect or engineer from Costa Rica. Costa Rica Architects provides reputable, licensed architects and civil engineers to guide you through the construction process.

How much does it cost to build in Costa Rica?

The cost for construction depends largely on the quality and finishes you desire. Most construction in Costa Rica is concrete, providing durability, long life and a resistance to insects and inclement weather. Interior finishes vary from rustic tile to luxury materials such as marble, granite, teak and more. As a general rule, it's much less expensive to build in Costa Rica than it is in the US and Canada. At Costa Rica Architects, we’ll work with you to provide the best possible results within your budget.

What do architects and engineers charge?

All architects and engineers in Costa Rica must be licensed by the Costa Rican Association of Engineers and Architects (Colegio Federado de Ingenieros y Ingenieros y Arquitectos-CFIA. This governing body establishes the fee schedule that can be charged by its members. Most fees are based upon a percentage of the value of the construction project. According to the regulations of the CFIA (Reglamento para la Contratación de Servicios de Consultoría en Ingeniería y Arquitectura), the involvement of a licensed architect/engineer in a construction project is separated into two phases. Phase 1 is construction plans and permits, and phase 2 is control and execution.

Phase 1.
Construction plans and permits. This phase is further subdivided into several distinct professional services that can be provided by the architect/engineer. The percentages cited below are those that the CFIA has established as minimum chargeable fees.

Preliminary studies (estudios preliminaries): 0.5 percent. These studies may or may not be required, depending on the scope of the project.

Design (anteproyecto): 1.0 to 1.5 percent. Generally, during this stage, the architect/engineer will meet with the client in order to discuss the client's construction requirements. With this information, the architect/engineer will prepare drafts of the proposed construction project for review by the client. These drafts should include site planning and preliminary work drawings. When you contract for this service it is important that you come to an agreement with your architect/engineer beforehand on what he or she is going to provide you.

Construction Plans/Blueprints: (planos de construcción y especificaciones técnicas): 4.0 percent. This is one of the most important steps in the overall construction project since execution of the project will depend upon the quality and accuracy of your construction plans. Once you have agreed on the layout and design of the project, your architect will begin drafting the plans. In Costa Rica, a complete set of plans should include a site plan, distribution plan, elevation and transversal and longitude perspectives, roof design and drainage, design of footings and support beams, structural plans, electrical design, mechanical and sanitary system design, as well as a plan that details all of the interior finishing's of the construction.

Budgeting (presupuesto): 0.5 percent for global budgeting; 1.0 percent for itemized budgeting. Here the architect/engineer prepares a materials list based upon your construction plans and prepares a construction budget for you.

Phase 2.
Control and Execution. This stage involves the actual construction and project supervision. The regulations authorize three kinds of supervisory tasks, each of which requires a larger time investment from the architect/engineer. Inspection (Inspección): 3 percent of total construction value. Here your architect/engineer will visit the construction site at least once a week and will inspect it to ensure that the plan specifications are being followed by the general contractor. They will also verify the quality of the materials being used and review invoices being presented by the general contractor.

Supervision (Dirección técnica): 5 percent. This requires more direct involvement by the architect/engineer in the day-to-day operation of the project.

Administration (Administración): 12 percent. Here, the architect/engineer takes complete responsibility for the execution and completion of the project.

The option you choose will depend upon the type of project involved, the reliability of your builder/general contractor, and the amount of time you are willing to dedicate to the construction project. All told, phases 1 and 2 can range from 9 percent to 18 percent of the estimated value of the construction project, depending on the amount of services required. At Costa Rica Architects, we would be pleased to develop an agreement tailored to your particular needs.

Before you sign any contract, be sure that you understand the fee structure and know exactly what is and is not included in the fee. Likewise, it is best to clearly understand the responsibilities that your architect/engineer is going to assume. Do the same thing with your general contractor and any subcontractors.

FAQs: The Design Process

    A design project is normally broken into different design phases. Designing a building takes time and a lot of careful planning. These phases are listed below.

  • Conceptual Design is where the architect listens to the client, and develops one or more initial designs. Probably as sketches, drawings or simple models. It’s best to work with an architect who can help you visualize the design. The goal is translate your needs into a good design.
  • Schematic Design (SD):
    Initial concepts are developed further during schematic design. Schematic designs consist of floor plans, elevations and sections. Imagine a floor plan as somebody coming along and ripping off the roof of your house, exposing the walls and looking down on it. Elevations are what the outside of your home looks like.  Sections are what your home looks like if it was sliced vertically. Physical models or computer generated models are sometimes used to help the client "see" the design.
  • Design Development (DD):
    After the schematic design (SD) is approved by the client, typically the next stage is design development. This is where the architect takes the time to fully flesh out a design, to consider different materials and to develops a plan to construct the building.
  • Construction Documents (CD):
    Completion of design development (DD) is the beginning of construction documents. In this stage, we map out the project details.  Window and door penetrations, roof details etc. the architect will typically tell the client which additional consultants maybe needed on the project such as  structural, mechanical, plumbing, civil, electrical, landscaping.
  • Construction Administration (CA):
    During construction administration, the architect administers the construction contract. The architect has worked to create the building design and is critical to ensuring that it is built according to the intent of the design. The best results are obtained when the architect works closely with the builder to guarantee that construction follows the agreed plan. 

FAQs: Building in Costa Rica

Can foreigners own property in Costa Rica?

Any individual, Costa Rican or otherwise, including those with only tourist status, may legally own land, homes and motor vehicles in Costa Rica. You don't have to be a Costa Rican, a resident of Costa Rica or even live in Costa Rica to own property and possess a legal corporation. Real estate is best purchased and owned by a Costa Rican corporation (S.A.).  It’s best to work with a recommended attorney to complete any purchase transaction in Costa Rica.

Can I rent a home in Costa Rica until mine is finished?

Non-residents can rent homes or land. What you pay depends on the location and the home. If you do sign a formal contract, it is assumed to be for three years. If you sign a contract in dollars, your rent can't be raised during that period. Landlords may not evict tenants for anything other than non-payment of rent or illegal activities.

Will my domestic appliances, lamps, computers and electrical equipment work?

Yes - Costa Rica has 110-115 Volt electric …the same as in the US and Canada.

How much will it cost to bring in my personal possessions?

Non-residents pay the same import duties on cars and boats as anyone with resident status would pay to bring them in. Personal effects and works of art are exempt from import taxes. Electronic equipment, household furniture and domestic appliances are valued and subject to import duties.

 

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