Here are the minimum rates charged by members of the Costa Rican Association of Engineers and Architects:

Preliminary study of construction plans and permits,: 0.5% of project cost.

(Such a study may or may not be required, depending on the project.)

Pre-project design: 1% to 1.5% of the price of project cost.

If the architect meets with you to discuss your needs, provides you with drafts of site planning, reviews construction plans and technical specifications of the project: 4.0% of project cost.

Once you have agreed with the layout and design of the property, the architect will draw up the plans. These will 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, interior finishing and construction. He will provide you with a list of materials necessary for the project, and will prepare a construction budget.

Figure 0.5% of project cost for global budgeting; 1.0% for itemized budgeting.

Regulation require one of three types of supervision

A. Inspection: The engineer or architect visits the site once a week, inspects to make sure that the plan is being followed by the general contractor, informs you of the quality of materials being used, and checks the invoices submitted by the general contractor. Cost: 3% of total construction costs.

B. Supervision: Engineer or architect visits your site daily and is more directly involved with the construction. Cost: 5% of total construction costs.

C. Management: Engineer or architect steps in to manage the project. Cost: 12% of total construction costs.

Before signing any of these contracts make sure that you have a thoroughly understanding its contents.

Hearts are broken less by malice than by miscommunication.

Information taken from www.costarica.com