A home addition involves a lot of moving parts. You have architects, foundation specialists, framers, plumbers, electricians, and paintersβjust to name a few. Trying to coordinate that complex dance yourself can quickly become a stressful, full-time job. This is where a professional home addition contractor becomes your most valuable asset. They act as the single point of contact for the entire project, orchestrating the team, managing the schedule, and ensuring every detail is executed to the highest standard. Instead of you juggling a dozen different contacts, you have one expert partner dedicated to bringing your project to life, on time and on budget.
Key Takeaways
- Hire a Project Partner, Not Just a Builder: A contractor’s most important role is managing the entire process for youβfrom initial design and securing permits to coordinating tradespeople and ensuring quality control.
- Verify the Non-Negotiables Before Talking Design: Your first step should always be to confirm any potential contractor has valid licenses and full insurance coverage. This protects your home and investment and is more critical than their initial price estimate.
- A Detailed Contract Prevents Future Stress: Insist on a comprehensive contract that clearly outlines the full scope of work, materials, timeline, and payment schedule. This document is your best tool for ensuring everyone is aligned and your project stays on track.
What Does a Home Addition Contractor Do?
Thinking about adding more space to your home is exciting, but itβs easy to get lost in the details. What does a home addition contractor actually do? In short, they are the professional guide for your entire project. Think of them as the captain of the ship, responsible for steering your vision from a simple idea into a beautiful, functional part of your home. They manage every single step, ensuring the process is as smooth and stress-free for you as possible.
A great contractor doesnβt just swing a hammer. They are master planners, coordinators, and problem-solvers. Their job starts long before construction begins, with initial design conversations and budget planning. They then assemble a team of skilled tradespeople, manage schedules, and ensure every aspect of the build meets high-quality standards and local building codes. From pouring the foundation to painting the last wall, your contractor is the single point of contact who makes sure your home addition is built correctly, on time, and on budget. They handle the complexity so you can focus on the excitement of your new space.
Types of Home Additions
A home addition contractor can build almost any kind of space you can imagine to expand your homeβs footprint and functionality. This could be a conventional room addition, like adding a new primary suite or a family room off the back of your house. It might also involve a “bump-out,” which is a smaller expansion perfect for enlarging a kitchen or adding a breakfast nook.
Other popular projects include second-story additions that add a whole new level to your home, sunrooms that bring in natural light, or even converting an attached garage into a livable space like a home office or gym. A skilled contractor will help you explore the possibilities and determine the best type of addition to meet your familyβs needs and complement your existing home.
Design and Planning
Before any construction starts, a significant amount of work goes into the design and planning phaseβand your contractor is central to this process. They work with you, an architect, or a designer to translate your wishlist into a buildable blueprint. This involves more than just deciding on the roomβs size; itβs about ensuring the new addition feels like a natural extension of your current home.
A good contractor ensures the new roofline, windows, and exterior materials match your homeβs existing style. They also focus on creating a functional interior flow, so the new space connects seamlessly with the old. This is where professional design and build services become invaluable, as they help create a cohesive plan that is both beautiful and practical from the very beginning.
Overseeing the Entire Project
Once the plans are finalized, your contractor steps into the role of project manager. They are responsible for overseeing every aspect of the construction process from start to finish. This means they hire and schedule all the necessary subcontractorsβfrom foundation specialists and framers to plumbers, electricians, and painters. They coordinate this complex dance to ensure everyone shows up at the right time and completes their work to the required standard.
This oversight is one of the biggest benefits of hiring a general contractor. Instead of you having to juggle multiple contacts and schedules, you have one expert point person. They handle the day-to-day logistics, troubleshoot any issues that arise on-site, and keep you updated on progress, making the entire experience much more manageable.
Handling Permits and Compliance
Working through local building codes and permit requirements can be one of the most confusing parts of a home addition. A professional contractor takes this entire burden off your shoulders. They know exactly what paperwork needs to be filed with your local municipality, what inspections are required, and when they need to happen. They prepare and submit architectural plans for approval and ensure every part of the project adheres to safety and zoning regulations.
This isn’t just about avoiding fines; it’s about ensuring your new addition is safe, structurally sound, and legally compliant. Proper permitting protects your investment and prevents major headaches down the road, especially when you eventually decide to sell your home. Your contractor manages this critical process so you can have peace of mind.
What Makes a Great Home Addition Contractor?
Choosing the right contractor is the single most important decision you’ll make for your home addition project. The right partner will bring your vision to life, manage the complexities, and deliver a space you love. But what separates a good contractor from a great one? It comes down to a few key qualifications that demonstrate their professionalism, skill, and commitment to quality. A great contractor doesn’t just build; they act as your trusted guide through a complex process, ensuring every detail is handled correctly from the foundation to the final coat of paint.
When you’re evaluating potential builders, you’re looking for more than just a low bid. You’re looking for proof of expertise, a history of successful projects, and a professional approach that gives you confidence. Think of it like hiring for a critical role in a companyβyou need to see the resume, check the references, and confirm their qualifications. The best contractors make this easy by being transparent about their credentials and proud of their track record. Focusing on these core qualities will help you find a Chicagoland-based home remodeling company that will not only meet but exceed your expectations.
Licenses and Insurance: The Non-Negotiables
Before you discuss design or get a quote, your first step should always be to verify a contractor’s licenses and insurance. This isn’t just a formality; it’s your primary protection. A valid contractor’s license proves they meet state and local requirements to perform the work legally. Without it, you have no guarantee of their knowledge or qualifications.
Equally important are two types of insurance: liability and workers’ compensation. General liability insurance protects your property from damage caused by the contractor or their team. Workers’ compensation covers any injuries that workers might sustain on your property, protecting you from being held financially responsible. Ask for copies of their insurance certificates and don’t hesitate to call the insurance provider to confirm the policies are active. A professional contractor will expect this and provide the documents without issue.
Valuable Industry Certifications
While licenses are mandatory, industry certifications show a contractor has gone above and beyond to master their craft. Certifications from respected organizations like the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) or the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) indicate a commitment to ongoing education and high ethical standards. These programs often require rigorous testing and proof of experience in specialized areas.
For a complex project like a home addition, look for contractors with credentials in design-build or residential construction. This signals they have the expertise to manage both the creative and technical aspects of the job. A firm that offers integrated design and build services can provide a more seamless experience, ensuring the initial vision is executed perfectly throughout construction.
Proven Experience and Expertise
A home addition is far more than just building a new room. It involves complex structural work, seamlessly integrating new HVAC and electrical systems with existing ones, and matching architectural details. This requires a contractor with specific, proven experience in building additions. Ask to see a portfolio of their past projects, paying close attention to additions similar in scope and style to yours. A robust project gallery is a great sign.
Don’t just look at the pretty pictures. Ask about the challenges they faced on those projects and how they solved them. A great contractor can speak confidently about navigating local permitting processes, managing subcontractors, and ensuring the new structure is sound and perfectly blended with the original home. This depth of experience is what prevents costly mistakes and ensures a successful outcome.
Reputable Professional Memberships
Beyond certifications, membership in professional organizations is another strong indicator of a contractor’s credibility. Groups like local home builder associations or chambers of commerce show that a contractor is an established and respected member of the business community. These organizations often have a code of conduct that members must uphold, providing an extra layer of accountability.
Being part of these networks also means the contractor stays current with industry trends, new building materials, and changes in local codes. It shows they are invested in their profession for the long term. You can often verify a contractor’s membership on the organization’s website. This, combined with a history of positive client reviews, helps paint a complete picture of a trustworthy and dedicated professional.
How to Find and Vet Your Contractor
Finding the right contractor is the most critical step in your home addition journey. This is the partner who will bring your vision to life, so itβs essential to do your homework. A thorough vetting process ensures you find a skilled, reliable professional who communicates well and respects your home and budget. Taking the time to ask the right questions and check credentials will save you from headaches down the road and set your project up for success from day one.
Where to Start Your Search
A great first step is asking for recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors who have recently completed a remodel. You can also check with professional organizations like the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) for a list of members in your area. While searching, consider the benefits of a full-service firm. Many homeowners find that hiring a design and build company streamlines the entire process. Instead of juggling a separate architect and builder, you have one cohesive team and a single point of contact from the initial sketches to the final nail, ensuring a smoother, more integrated project flow.
Questions to Ask Every Contractor
Think of your first meeting with a potential contractor as an interviewβyouβre hiring them for a major role. Come prepared with a list of questions. Start with the basics: Are you licensed and insured in Illinois? How long have you been in business? Can you share a portfolio of projects similar to mine? Then, get into the specifics of their process. Ask how they manage timelines, handle unexpected issues, and communicate progress. A professional contractor will have clear answers and should be able to walk you through their approach. Seeing their past work in a project gallery can also give you confidence in their quality and style.
How to Check References
A reputable contractor will happily provide a list of recent clients you can speak with. Donβt skip this step! Talking to previous customers gives you unfiltered insight into what itβs like to work with the company. Ask them about their experience. Was the team respectful of their home? How was the communication throughout the project? Did the contractor stick to the budget and timeline? Most importantly, ask if they would hire them again. Hearing directly from homeowners who have been through the process is invaluable and helps you understand a companyβs commitment to client satisfaction, which you can often see reflected in their online reviews.
Warning Signs to Look Out For
As you meet with contractors, keep an eye out for red flags. Be cautious of anyone who gives you an extremely low bid; it often indicates theyβre cutting corners on materials or labor. High-pressure sales tactics or demands for a large cash deposit upfront are also major warning signs. A professional contractor will provide a detailed, written contract and will never pressure you into a quick decision. They should be transparent about their process and eager to answer all your questions. If a contractor seems evasive, canβt provide proof of insurance, or makes you feel uncomfortable in any way, itβs best to trust your gut and walk away.
How to Compare Bids
Once you have a few bids in hand, avoid the temptation to simply choose the cheapest one. A thorough proposal should be much more than a single number. Look for a detailed breakdown of all costs, including labor, materials, permits, and other expenses. The bid should also clearly outline the scope of work, a projected timeline, and a payment schedule. A fixed-price bid is ideal, as it protects you from unexpected cost increases. The best choice is the contractor who provides a comprehensive, transparent bid and gives you the most confidence that they can deliver your project on time and on budget. When you’re ready for a detailed estimate, it’s time to reach out.
Breaking Down the Cost of a Home Addition
Let’s talk numbers. Understanding the potential cost of a home addition is a huge part of the planning process. While every project is unique, knowing the key factors that shape the budget will help you set realistic expectations. A transparent contractor will walk you through a detailed estimate, but itβs smart to go into that conversation with a solid understanding of where the money goes. From the foundation to the final coat of paint, a clear financial picture is the first step toward a successful project.
Typical Costs for Different Additions
While a precise quote requires a detailed assessment, you can get a general idea of the investment. In the Chicagoland area, home additions can range from around $470 to $750 per square foot. So, for a simple 200-square-foot room, you might be looking at a starting point of $94,000. Larger or more complex projects, like adding a second story or a multi-room extension, will naturally have a higher price tag. These figures are a baseline and can shift based on the specifics of your project, but they provide a helpful starting point for your initial budget discussions.
What Influences the Final Price?
Several key elements determine the total cost of your addition. The intended purpose of the space is a major factorβa simple family room will cost less than a full bathroom remodeling project that requires extensive plumbing and high-end fixtures. Your choice of materials, from flooring and windows to roofing and siding, will also significantly impact the budget. Finally, labor costs, the complexity of integrating the new structure with your existing home, and local market conditions all play a role in shaping the final price.
Don’t Forget These Potential Costs
Beyond the main construction costs, there are other expenses to account for. Securing the necessary building permits and scheduling inspections can add anywhere from $500 to over $2,000 to your budget, depending on the scope of your project. Itβs also wise to set aside a contingency fundβtypically 10-15% of the total project costβfor any surprises. Unforeseen structural issues or design changes can happen, and having a buffer prevents financial strain and keeps your project on track. An experienced contractor will help you anticipate these possibilities from the start.
Payment Schedules and Financing Options
Your contractor should provide a clear payment schedule in your contract. This typically involves an initial deposit, followed by milestone payments as different phases of the project are completed. This structure ensures work is progressing as expected before you release funds. Many homeowners finance their additions through home equity loans, lines of credit, or construction loans. We recommend discussing your project with a financial advisor to find the best fit. A great contractor will provide a detailed, transparent estimate you can take to your lender and will maintain open communication about costs throughout the project.
How to Plan Your Home Addition
Once youβve found a contractor you trust, the real fun begins: planning your new space. A well-thought-out plan is the foundation of a successful project, ensuring the final result not only meets your needs but also feels like a natural extension of your home. Proper planning involves defining your goals, making key design choices, and understanding the logistics before a single wall comes down. This collaborative process between you and your builder is what turns a great idea into a beautiful, functional reality.
Start with a Home Assessment
Before you get lost in paint swatches and flooring samples, take a step back and think about the why behind your addition. What is the primary purpose of this new space? Are you creating a primary suite, a spacious family room, or a dedicated home office? Consider your familyβs daily routines and how this addition will improve them. Walk through your current home and identify what works and what doesnβt. This initial assessment will give you and your design team a clear direction, ensuring your new home addition solves real problems and truly enhances your lifestyle.
Key Design Considerations
A great home addition looks like it was always there. To achieve this seamless integration, your contractor will consider your homeβs existing architecture. This means matching details like the roof pitch, window proportions, and exterior materials. Inside, the goal is to create a natural flow from the old space to the new, avoiding awkward transitions. This is where professional design and build services are invaluable. A skilled team will help you balance aesthetics with function, ensuring the new layout complements your homeβs character while meeting your modern needs.
What Permits Will You Need?
Navigating building codes and permits can feel intimidating, but itβs a critical step. Permits ensure your addition is built to current safety standards, protecting your family and your investment. In the Chicagoland area, requirements can vary by municipality. The good news? A reputable general contractor will handle the entire permitting process for you. They know the local regulations and will prepare and submit all the necessary paperwork, coordinate inspections, and make sure every aspect of the project is fully compliant. This lets you focus on the exciting parts of the project, not the paperwork.
Creating a Realistic Timeline
Itβs natural to want your project finished as quickly as possible, but a realistic timeline is key to a low-stress experience. Remember that the schedule includes more than just active construction. It also accounts for the design phase, material selection and ordering, permit approvals, and potential weather delays. Your contractor should provide a detailed project schedule with key milestones, from breaking ground to the final walk-through. This transparency helps you understand the process, plan accordingly, and know exactly what to expect each week.
Common Planning Mistakes to Avoid
Two of the most common planning pitfalls are an unclear vision and an unrealistic budget. Vague goals can lead to a space that doesnβt quite meet your needs, while budget overruns can cause major stress. Take the time to clearly define what you want and have honest conversations about costs with your contractor. Another mistake is designing an addition that clashes with your homeβs architectural style. A well-designed addition should respect the original structure, not compete with it. Working with an experienced team helps you sidestep these issues from the start.
Designing a Successful Home Addition
A great home addition is more than just extra square footageβitβs a space that enhances your lifestyle and feels like it was always meant to be there. The design phase is where this magic happens. Itβs about thoughtfully planning how the new space will look, feel, and function as part of your whole home. From the roofline to the flow of traffic, every detail matters in creating an addition youβll love for years to come.
Blending with Your Home’s Style
The best additions look like they were part of the original house, not a last-minute attachment. To achieve this seamless look, we start by looking at your homeβs existing architecture. This means matching the roof pitch, aligning the eaves, and maintaining similar window proportions. Using complementary exterior materials, whether it’s siding, brick, or stone, is key to creating a cohesive appearance. Our goal is to make the new structure feel like a natural extension of your home, which you can see in our project gallery. A well-blended addition not only looks better but also protects your home’s curb appeal and value.
Creating a Functional, Flowing Space
Before a single wall goes up, itβs important to define the purpose of your new space. How will you use it every day? How will it connect to the rest of your home? A successful design creates a layout that improves the overall flow of your house, not disrupts it. For example, a kitchen addition should connect logically to the dining and living areas. Our design and build services focus on creating these smart, functional layouts. We consider everything from furniture placement to foot traffic to ensure your new addition makes your entire home more livable and enjoyable.
Maximizing Light and Airflow
No one wants to live in a dark, stuffy room. A key part of designing a successful addition is maximizing natural light and creating a sense of openness. This can be achieved through the strategic placement of windows and doors, considering the path of the sun throughout the day. Vaulted ceilings can also make a space feel larger and more airy. We also plan for practical elements like egress routes and proper circulation to ensure the room is not only bright and comfortable but also safe and functional. Thoughtful design ensures your new space is a bright, welcoming retreat.
Thinking About Resale Value
A home addition is a significant investment, and you want to be sure it pays off. A well-designed addition that complements your homeβs style and adds valuable living space can provide a great return. Buyers are drawn to homes with functional, seamless additions, like an extra bedroom, an expanded family room, or a primary suite. Planning your home addition with resale value in mind means making smart choices that will appeal to a wide range of people, not just your familyβs specific needs. This foresight ensures your project is not just a personal upgrade but a wise financial decision.
Making the Most of Your New Space
Ultimately, your new addition should be a space that brings you joy and makes your life easier. Beyond the basic layout, think about the details that will make it truly yours. Do you want built-in shelving for storage? A cozy window seat for reading? A wet bar for entertaining? A well-planned addition considers both the big picture and the small details that cater to your lifestyle. By clearly defining your needs and wants from the start, you can create a space that not only adds square footage but also genuinely enhances how you live in your home.
How to Work With Your Contractor
Once youβve chosen your contractor, the real partnership begins. A successful home addition relies on a strong working relationship built on trust, respect, and clear communication. Think of your contractor as your project co-pilot; youβre both working toward the same goal of creating a beautiful, functional space youβll love. Setting clear expectations from day one is the best way to ensure a smooth process. This means understanding the contract, establishing communication protocols, and knowing how to handle the inevitable bumps in the road. A proactive approach will help you and your contractor work together as a team, turning your vision into a reality with minimal stress.
What Your Contract Should Include
Your contract is the single most important document for your home addition. Itβs the official playbook that protects both you and your contractor. A major mistake is moving forward without a detailed, fixed-price agreement that leaves no room for interpretation. Before you sign, make sure it clearly outlines every detail, including a full scope of work, specific materials and brand names, a projected timeline with key milestones, and a clear payment schedule. It should also specify procedures for handling change orders and resolving potential disputes. A thorough contract from a professional firm like THP Builders ensures everyone is on the same page before the first hammer swings.
Setting Up Clear Communication
Consistent, open communication is the secret ingredient to a low-stress remodel. A contractor who keeps you in the loop and is open to discussing solutions will make the entire experience feel more collaborative and manageable. Before the project starts, agree on a communication plan. Who is your main point of contact? Will you communicate through a project management app, email, or weekly on-site meetings? Establishing these ground rules early prevents misunderstandings and ensures your questions get answered promptly. A great design and build team will prioritize communication, making you feel like a valued partner throughout the process.
Ensuring High-Quality Work
Youβre hiring a contractor for their expertise, so itβs important to trust their process while also knowing what to look for. A great contractor doesn’t just build; they manage the entire quality control process. They hire skilled and vetted subcontractors, use high-quality materials, and conduct regular site inspections to ensure everything meets building codes and their own high standards. Donβt be afraid to ask about their quality assurance process. You can also see the quality of their work firsthand by looking through their project gallery. This ensures the team is qualified to handle the complexities of a major home addition, not just smaller handyman jobs.
How to Handle Changes Mid-Project
Even the most detailed plans can require adjustments once walls are opened up or as your vision evolves. The key is to have a formal process for any deviations from the original contract. Starting construction without a solid plan often leads to costly mid-project changes and delays. A professional contractor will use a “change order” system. This is a written document that details the new work, the associated costs (or savings), and any impact on the project schedule. Work on the change should only begin after you have both signed the document, ensuring complete transparency and preventing budget surprises down the line.
What to Do If Issues Arise
If a problem comes up, address it immediately. Most minor issues can be resolved with a quick, calm conversation with your project manager. This is why checking references is so important; you can ask previous clients how the contractor handled unexpected surprises. If you canβt reach a resolution through conversation, refer back to your contract, which should outline the steps for dispute resolution. A reputable contractor wants you to be happy with the final result and will work with you to solve problems fairly. Reading a contractor’s reviews can give you confidence in their ability to manage projects and maintain positive client relationships.
How to Protect Your Investment
A home addition is a significant financial and emotional investment. Once the dust settles and you’re enjoying your beautiful new space, you want peace of mind knowing everything was done right and is protected for the long haul. Taking a few key steps before, during, and after the project can safeguard your investment and ensure you have recourse if any issues pop up down the road. Itβs all about being prepared and knowing what to look for.
Keep These Documents on Hand
Think of your project contract as the ultimate source of truth. Itβs the most important document youβll have, so keep a digital and physical copy somewhere safe. A major misstep is moving forward without a detailed, fixed-price contract, which can open the door to unexpected costs. Your contract should clearly outline the full scope of work, a payment schedule, specific materials to be used, and a projected timeline. Having every detail in writing protects both you and your contractor, creating clear expectations and preventing misunderstandings about the final home renovation cost and deliverables.
Your Homeowner’s Insurance
Before the project begins, confirm your contractor has adequate liability and workers’ compensation insurance. But don’t forget about your own policy. A home addition increases your home’s value, which means you’ll likely need to update your homeowner’s insurance to reflect its new replacement cost. Contact your insurance agent before construction starts to understand what’s covered during the renovation and what adjustments you’ll need to make once it’s complete. This simple call ensures your bigger, better home is fully protected from the moment you start enjoying it.
Understanding Your Project Warranty
A reputable contractor will stand behind their work with a warranty. This is their promise that the craftsmanship is up to professional standards and will last. Before signing the contract, make sure you understand the terms of the warranty. What does it cover, and for how long? Typically, a workmanship warranty covers defects in installation for a set period, like one or two years. Itβs separate from the manufacturers’ warranties on individual products like windows or appliances. Knowing these details gives you a clear path to follow if you discover an issue after the crew has packed up and left.
Legal Protections for Homeowners
Beyond the contract, a few other legal safeguards are essential. Ask if your contractor is bonded. A bond is a type of surety that protects you if the contractor fails to complete the job or meet their financial obligations, like paying subcontractors. Another key document is a lien waiver. As you make payments, your contractor should provide you with lien waivers signed by themselves and their subcontractors. This is proof that theyβve been paid and protects you from having a lien placed on your property. These protections are standard for any professional design and build firm.
The Final Walk-Through and Inspection
Before you make that final payment, itβs time for the final walk-through. This is your opportunity to inspect every detail of your new home addition with your project manager. Donβt be shyβopen every window, flip every switch, and turn on every faucet. Create a “punch list,” which is a running list of any small items that need to be fixed or completed, like a paint touch-up or a missing piece of trim. A thorough final inspection ensures the project meets the standards outlined in your contract and that you are completely satisfied with the award-winning results before officially closing out the project.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a typical home addition take from start to finish? While every project is different, a good rule of thumb is to plan for several months. The process includes more than just the construction itself. The initial design and planning phase can take one to three months, followed by the permit approval process, which varies by municipality. The actual construction can then take anywhere from four to eight months, or longer for very large or complex additions. A professional contractor will provide you with a detailed, realistic timeline upfront so you know exactly what to expect.
Can I stay in my home while the addition is being built? In many cases, yes. Whether you can live at home during construction depends on the scope of the project. For additions that are mostly self-contained, like a new primary suite off the back of the house, it’s usually manageable. A good contractor will work with you to create a plan that minimizes disruption by sealing off the work area to control dust and noise and ensuring your family’s safety. If the project involves a major kitchen or second-story addition, a temporary move might be more comfortable.
What’s the real benefit of hiring a design-build firm for my addition? Hiring a design-build firm means you have one cohesive team managing your entire project from the first sketch to the final coat of paint. Instead of you having to coordinate between a separate architect and a builder, the designer and construction manager work together under one roof. This integrated approach streamlines communication, helps control the budget more effectively, and ensures the original design vision is executed perfectly because the people who designed it are also the ones building it.
How do I know if my property is even suitable for an addition? This is one of the first things a qualified contractor will help you figure out. During an initial consultation, they will assess your property to understand local zoning regulations, property line setbacks, and any other restrictions that might affect your plans. They will also evaluate your home’s existing structure to determine the most practical way to build the addition. This early feasibility check is a critical step that ensures your project is possible before you invest significant time and money into the design.
What happens if we discover an unexpected issue, like a problem with my home’s foundation, once construction starts? Discovering unforeseen issues is a normal possibility in any major renovation, especially with older homes. A great contractor won’t panic, and neither should you. They will immediately stop work in that area, clearly explain the problem to you, and present you with transparent options and associated costs for fixing it. Any changes to the plan will be handled through a formal change order that you approve, so you maintain complete control over the budget and scope.
