Civil Engineering FAQs

A Feasibility Study includes preliminary research with various municipality departments, i.e., Planning, Building, Fire, etc.  

The purpose of the research is to objectively, and rationally, uncover the strengths and weaknesses of a particular site. 

The information received will be included within a Feasibility Report and provides the Client with criteria that will be used to evaluate the project’s potential for success.

Due to the variables involved with each project, the exact cost can only be determined when the final Scope of Work is known.  

However, 15% - 17% of the construction cost is a “rule of thumb” budget estimate.  

This estimate includes both Phase I (the Preliminary Design) and Phase II (the Construction Documents). 

G&M does everything we can to keep our costs at a minimum. 

G&M has greater than 30 years’ experience in Civil Engineering, Land Surveying, Design, and Structural design. 

We provide quality designs and drawings and are knowledgeable of the local municipality’s standards.  If, on the rare occasion, information is not on the plan, G&M takes responsibility to make things right.

Due to the variables involved with each project, the exact cost can only be determined when the exact Scope of Work is known.  The following formula will assist you in creating an estimate of cost (a budget figure):

Approximate area of addition or remodel (sq. ft.)  

x estimated “per sq. ft.” Cost of Construction 

(Provided by your General Contractor)

+ Any special costs

+ Municipal Fees

= Estimated Cost of Construction

Estimated Design fees (15%-17% x Cost of Const.)

(Design fees are separate and are not included in Cost of Construction)

Note: Budgets can change as your project progresses for a variety of reasons.  It is prudent for you to revisit your budget at the various stages of your project.

A Grading and Drainage Plan is a document (drawing) that defines the grading of a property in such a manner that water will properly drain away from your house and/or other structures to prevent flooding. 

A licensed engineer or architect must prepare and sign this document.

Not always.  However, for commercial, church or school projects, the goal is to obtain approval and to identify any significant problems. 

At your earliest convenience, prior to submittal to your local municipality, we recommend that you present your conceptual drawings to your neighbors for review and comments. It is in your best interest to try and deal with neighborhood concerns and receive their “buy-in” as soon as possible. 

G&M can represent you and answer any questions at your neighborhood meetings.

Stormwater management is required by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 

The treatment efforts are to remove pollutants or stormwater volume. Examples of treatment include sand filters, infiltration basins and trenches, bioretention gardens (rain garden), ponds, swales, etc.