Part Two: OALA Fee Guide for Landscape Architectural...

2016

Engaging a Landscape Architect

Part Two:

OALA Fee Guide for Landscape Architectural Services

The OALA is a component organization of the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects.


Part Two:


Published by the ONTARIO ASSOCIATION OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS3 Church Street, Suite 506, Toronto, Ontario M5E 1M2

416-231-4181 | www.oala.ca | [email protected]

Copyright © 2016 OALAAll rights reserved

March 27, 2016

Task Force Members:

Lawrence Stasiuk OALA, FCSLA, ChairArnis Budrevics OALA, FCSLAJim Melvin OALA, FCSLADon Naylor OALA, FCSLAGlenn A. O’Connor OALA, FCSLATom Ridout OALA, CSLAJim Vafiades OALA, FCSLA

1.0 Introduction 4

2.0 Ontario Association of Landscape Architects (OALA) 5

3.0 General Areas of Practice 6

4.0 Consultant Selection 7 4.1 Selecting the Consultant 7 4.2 Options for Engagement 7 4.3 Proposal Terms of Reference 7 4.4 Proposal Assumptions 8 4.5 Contracts 9 4.6 Notification 9 5.0 Consultant Fees 10 5.1 Retainer 10 5.2 Mobilization Fee 11

6.0 Fiscal Responsibilities of the Landscape Architect and Client 12 6.1 Landscape Architect 12 6.2 Client 12 6.3 Disputes 12 6.4 Termination of Contract 13 6.5 Copyright and Ownership of Drawings 14

7.0 Guidelines for Estimating Consultant Fees 16 7.1 Overview 16 7.2 Fair and Reasonable Fees 16 7.3 Relationship Between Budget and Fees 16 7.4 Fees, Tasks and Complexity 16 7.5 Levels of Complexity 17 7.6 Project Types By Category 18 7.7 Methods of Remuneration 20 Table 1: Services / Fee Options 21 7.8 Hourly Rate Guide 22 Table 2: Range of Typical Hourly Rates 22 7.9 Percentage - Fee Estimate Charts 22 7.10 Service Delivery Weighting: Table 3 22 Table 3: Service Delivery Weighting Guide 23 7.11 Fee Payment 24 7.12 Task / Scope of Work Evaluation Chart 24

8.0 Appendices 25 8.1 Table 4 - Percentage Method Fee Calculation Chart (Landscape Architecture) 26 8.2 Table 5 - Percentage Method Fee Calculation Chart (LA & Engineering) 27 8.3 Task / Scope of Work Evaluation Chart 28

Section Page

3

Table of Contents

Part Two: OALA Fee Guide for Landscape Architectural Services

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The OALA has published a series of documents to help clients better understand the processes for engaging a landscape architect by presenting the range of services provided by landscape architects, outlining the various procurement options, and how to determine reasonable budgets and fees.

The Engaging a Landscape Architect series has been prepared in four (4) separate parts as guide publications, under the following titles:

Part One: OALA Guide to Landscape Architectural Services Part Two: OALA Fee Guide for Landscape Architectural Services (this volume) Part Three: OALA Guide to Standard Written Agreements Part Four: OALA Guide to Design Competitions

This Part Two guide provides assistance in determining reasonable budgets and fee compensation when engaging consulting services of a Landscape Architect. This is intended to provide Landscape Architects, the public and clients with a comprehensive set of guidelines related to landscape architectural fees.

1.0 Introduction


Part One:

OALA Guide to Landscape Architectural Services

2016


Part Three:

OALA Guide to Standard Written Agreements


Part Four:

OALA Guide to Design Competitions

2016


Part Two:


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2.0 Ontario Association of Landscape Architects (OALA)

The Ontario Association of Landscape Architects (OALA) is a self-regulating professional association. The OALA undertakes activities including setting standards for licensure, active promotion to governments, professionals, the public, develops and promotes the standards and benefits of landscape architecture. The OALA was formed in 1968. For more information on the OALA see www.oala.ca.

The OALA is a component organization of the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects (CSLA). The CSLA is the National body that is comprised of all Provincial and Territorial Landscape Architecture component organizations. For more information see www.csla.ca

The OALA, with headquarters in Toronto, administers the Ontario Association of Landscape Architects Act 1984. The act states that an individual must be a Full Member of the Association before they can be granted the exclusive use of the title of Landscape Architect. Candidates seeking admission into the organization are required to have specific minimum educational requirements and complete a Professional Development Program (PDP) for a period of time specified by the association, and successfully pass the prescribed examinations – The LARE. The Landscape Architecture Registration Exams (LARE) are administered by an independent body called the Council of Landscape Architecture Registration Boards (CLARB) that regulates licensure in the United States and several Canadian provinces. The OALA maintains high standards of professional practice including a Mandatory Continuing Education Program (MCEP) to ensure its members serve and protect the public interest.

L.A.R.E. AND THE PATH TO OALA FULL MEMBERSHIP

Upon graduation, you are eligible to apply for membership as an OALA Associate!

Steps:1. Download a copy of the OALA Handbook

- this has all the info and necessary forms.2. Print the Associate Application Form, fill

it out and submit to the OALA with a *$70 fee for your application + PDP. *waived if applying within a year of graduation

• Two (2) signatures from OALA Full Members to be your endorser and advisor/mentor

• Original transcript• Copy of your degree• $70 payment to OALA

a.k.a. Professional Development Program. For MLA & BLA grads, PDP is a 24 month period to ensure that you’re learning and covering a list of required skills for OALA Full Membership. The specific format and most FAQs are found in the OALA Handbook.The PDP also includes a reading list for Independent Course of Study to complete.

Steps:1. Start your Council Record with CLARB -

it’s required to register for the L.A.R.E.2. Decide which exam you want to take3. Decide when you want to take it

Now comes the fun part...

SECTION 1:project &

construction management

There are many resources available to you from OALA, CLARB & ASLA!

TIPS: L.A.R.E. Secrets, Flash Cards (1&2), Study Groups, Know the Practice Exams

The exams are held at a Pearson Vue Authorized Test Centre of your choosing - check their website for locations.

CONGRATULATIONS, YOU’VE PASSED!

3 + PDP = 4 + PDP =

eligible for full membership with certificate

eligible for full membership with certificate + seal

L.A.R.E. and PDP can be achieved at the same time. You can decide to start taking your L.A.R.E.s whenever you want, even while you’re still in school! The exam is offered 3x per year over a two-week period:

&

JOINING OALA

PDPStart ASAP!Right when

you get a job.

• Experience progress reports (EPRs) completed every 4-months.

• Due April 30, August 31 & December 31• One (1) mid-point assessment

by your advisor• One (1) final assessment

by your advisor• Independant Course of Study

DECIDE TO START LARE

REGISTER FOR THE EXAM

HAPPY STUDYING

CLARB = Council of Landcape

Architecture Registration

Boards

THE FINAL STEP

TAKING THE EXAM

SECTION 2:inventory &

analysis

SECTION 3:design

SECTION 4:grading, drainage

& construction documents

• Check out the recommended reading list via CLARB

• Visit the OALA Library• Join the OALA L.A.R.E. study group• Come to OALA L.A.R.E. study sessions

• Arrive early• Bring two (2) forms of ID• Everything you need will be given to you

APRIL AUGUST DECEMBER

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3.0 General Areas of Practice

Landscape architecture is a broad design profession practiced in both the public and private sectors. Private sector Landscape Architects provide professional advice and services on a fee for service basis. The scope of work is subject to agreement between client and consultant. Members are encouraged to practice within their range of skills, expertise and competency, while conducting themselves in accordance with good professional and best practices. Landscape Architects offer creative advice, creative design solutions and various products in the form of deliverables.

Landscape Architects may provide services in those areas of practice in which they possess competence. These services include but are not limited to:

• Landscape Design• Land Development Planning• Landscape Master Planning• Park and Recreation Planning• Site Planning• Urban Design• Specialty Areas of Practice

Detailed descriptions are provided in Part One: OALA Guide to Landscape Architectural Services.

Image: University of Ottawa Campus Master Plan, Urban Strategies Inc.

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4.0 Consultant Selection

Refer to Part One: OALA Guide to Landscape Architectural Services, Section 7.0 Retaining a Landscape Architect and Options for Engagement. Part One provides guidelines on preparing terms of reference, establishing proposal evaluation criteria and describes several proposal evaluation methodologies. A summary is provided below.

4.1 Selecting the Consultant

The first step in the process is for a client to prepare a detailed Terms of Reference (ToR) and establish consultant and project budgets. Clients should invite prospective consultants to submit a proposal of services and fees based on the requirements of the Terms of Reference. A call for proposals is not a tender. Therefore, the lowest cost is not the primary criteria for selection of a consultant. Price is only one of the criteria in the evaluation process to determine an award.

Clients should advise the proponents of the evaluation criteria and the scoring to be used to determine the award. Typical criteria include the consultant’s understanding of the client’s objectives and requirements; proposed approach and methodology; scope of services, work plan and schedule; qualifications, experience and expertise of the team members and the firms; and proposed fees.

4.2 Options for Engagement

Landscape Architects may be retained through one of several procedures.

• Direct appointment or sole-source procurement• Limited source procurement• Expression of Interest (EOI), followed by short list and full written proposals• Prequalifying a short list of consultants• Request for Quotation (RFQ)• Request for Proposal (RFP) - two stage or fixed fee• Municipal or agency consultant roster • Alternative Financing and Procurement (AFP)• Design competitions• Competitor Bid Team (DB, DBF, DBFM)

(DB = Design Build; DBF = Design Build Finance; DBFM = Design Build Finance Maintain)

4.3 Proposal Terms of Reference

When a consultant responds to a proposal they should expect a complete and well prepared Terms of Reference that includes the following:

• Context and background• Base information and available reports /studies

(Base information to be made available to the consultant upon award)• Project objectives and scope of work

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• Approach and methodology• Design services required and project deliverables• Team members experience and qualifications• Firm experience and qualifications• Schedule, budget, submission date and other requirements• Meetings• Sample Client / consultant agreement• Proposal evaluation criteria• Proposal evaluation process and selection timing

The size and scope of a project may simplify the amount of information needed in the terms of reference, however, if any of the above bullets are not included, the consultant should ask for clarification and receive responses. Typically questions and answers are recorded and made available to all participants.

4.4 Proposal Assumptions

If the terms of reference fails to clearly describe the scope of work, the expectations of deliverables, meetings, subconsultants or all other issues that impact the consultants ability to prepare a fair and reasonable fee proposal, the proposal should include a detailed list of assumptions that specifies exactly what is and is not included in the fee. While the list of assumptions will vary with the type and complexity of the assignment, the following short list includes examples of assumptions that are commonly used in the current market place.

• Base data shall be provided by the project engineers, surveyors, planners, architects and/or others, as applicable, in a digital format (typically CAD) suitable for the design requirements at no cost to the Landscape Architect.

• Specify the number of meetings included in the fee and state that more meetings are in addition to the stated fee at the hourly rate of the team member attending.

• Specify the maximum number of submissions in the fee including the final submission. Additional submissions require an extra service.

• Subconsultants, e.g. structural, electrical, civil and geotechnical engineering fees are not included unless specifically accounted for in the proposal.

• The cost of all permits is the responsibility of the Client unless stated otherwise.• Changes to base data, by others, that require revisions to approved work shall be

identified and a request for extra service will be issued to the Client in writing for consideration prior to making the revisions.

• State the terms of payment and penalty applied to late payments.• State the terms of termination. (see Section 6.4 for more information).


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4.5 Contracts

Once a client and consultant have reached a consensus on the services to be provided, an agreement is signed to create a binding contract. The contract should include the terms of reference and the proposal. The contract must match negotiated terms between the client and the consultant. See Part Three: OALA Guide to Standard Written Agreements for more information.

4.6 Notification

The client should notify all participants in writing in a timely manner of their choice of the award.


Image: The West Don Lands, The Planning Partnership

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Professional consultant fees and expenses are the result of the level of services provided. The following provides an outline of the types of services that are commonly required in a traditional landscape architecture assignment as per Section 8.0 in Part One: OALA Guide to Landscape Architectural Services.

• Consulting and advisory services• Conceptual design• Master planning• Schematic design• Design development• Cost estimating• Construction drawings• Contract documents• Contract administration • Post construction administration

The effort and time assigned to providing these services takes into consideration the cost of running the business including;

• Production costs associated with creating deliverables.• Comprehensive business expenses including: rent, staff medical benefits, pension

plans, paid vacation time.• Insurance including; professional liability, errors and omissions, office comprehensive,

WSIB and software licenses.• Areasonable expectation of profit.• Applicable taxes: Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) is not included in the base fee, but must

be included in the project total in accordance with Federal and Provincial laws.• Reimbursable expenses (disbursements) are out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the

consultant in the delivery of the project. Expenses may be charged in two ways: 1. Charges in addition to fees at cost plus 10 percent administration fee. 2. Charges as a fixed percentage of the base consultant fee at a rate between

5.0 and 6.5 percent.3. When large disbursement items such as tender documents exceed the

approved percentage, these one time costs should be billed in addition to the fixed percentage with a copy of the invoice provided to the client for reference.

5.0 Consultant Fees

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5.1 Retainer

The Landscape Architect may ask for a retainer at the time of entering into an agreement with the Client for professional services. Typically retainers are used for:

• New Clients where there is no payment history or established business relationship• Existing Clients where project start-up costs need to be covered in advance

Retainers are normally held to the end of the project and are credited in the final invoice for service.

5.2 Mobilization Fee

Landscape Architects may ask for a mobilization fee that is invoiced at the time of entering into an agreement for professional services. The fee is used as an advance for pending services to be initiated immediately. The fees are accounted for on the following invoice.

5.0 Consultant Fees

Image: Bayview Glen Sustainable Neighbourhood Retrofit Action Plan (SNAP), Schollen & Company Inc.

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6.0 Fiscal Responsibilities of the Landscape Architect and Client

These guidelines are opinions of the OALA and do not necessarily represent specific contractual obligations. The OALA recommends written agreements be executed between parties and that they be prepared with the assistance and advice of a lawyer familiar with the type of work to be undertaken and with the regions where the work is to take place. See also Part Three: OALA Guide to Standard Written Agreements for additional guidelines and recommendations.

6.1 Landscape Architect

The responsibility of the Landscape Architect is to properly account for their time and prepare an orderly invoice for remittance. Invoices for work are normally issued on a monthly basis or at key pre-agreed milestones and represent the value of work completed to date. Invoices also include amounts for reimbursable expenses as prescribed in the contract, as well as, applicable taxes.

The invoice should be addressed to the Client for whom the work has been prepared and clearly communicate a breakdown of the services provided along with the total amount charged in Canadian dollars (unless other currency is stipulated in the agreement). Direct deposit between banks is now a common and preferred method of payment that allows both Client and consultant to track the payment history and frequency. Terms of payment, recommended at 30 days, to no longer than 45 days, should be stated on all invoices. Carrying charges for late payment may be applied as a contract condition e.g. 1% per month for payments received later than agreed to in the contract.

6.2 Client

The responsibility of the Client is to agree and approve the value of the invoice relative to the work performed and pay the invoice in a timely manner. It is important to establish in the agreement that fees, including reimbursable expenses, will be paid within a specified time after receipt of the invoice.

6.3 Disputes

The cause of disputes between Clients and Landscape Architects is most often the result of a lack of clarity in the proposal and the signed agreement relating to the cost of services for the specified scope of work. When consultants identify a service request that is not included in the specified scope of work, the Client should be notified in writing that extra services will apply. The consultant should prepare a firm quotation for the extra service and receive written authorization from the client to proceed before the work is initiated.

In the event that a financial dispute remains unresolved, an arbitrator acceptable to both parties should be retained to assist in resolving the dispute quickly and fairly. Legal action to resolve a dispute should be viewed as a last resort given the high cost of litigation. However, in circumstances where there is no opportunity to resolve a dispute fairly, a Small Claims Court action may be considered. In Ontario, this Court allows for claims up to a maximum of $25,000 (2016) not including interest and costs. The claim must fall into

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one of two categories: 1. Claims for money owed under an agreement2. Claims for damages such as breach of contract

A Small Claims Court filing can be done on line.

For more information search: Ont. Ministry of the Attorney General - Small Claims Court.Lawsuits for more than $25,000 need to be heard by the Ontario Superior Court of Justice (‘civil court”). Legal representation in Civil Court is required. Obtaining a legal opinion is always recommended when legal action is being considered.

6.4 Termination of Contract

Both the Client and the consultant are obligated to conform to the terms of the signed agreement. If either party chooses to terminate a contract at any stage of its execution, wording in the agreement needs to speak to the terms of dissolution of the agreement. The following wording example can be included in the agreement to establish a clear resolution of payment obligations if a binding agreement is terminated:

“The Landscape Architect shall be entitled to full compensation for all services performed on the Client’s behalf at the approved hourly rates, or approved percentage of completion, up to the time of notification in writing to discontinue services.”

Under these circumstances a Client will need to retain the services of another Landscape Architect to complete and certify the work. In order to satisfy themselves that proper legal closure of the original agreement has been completed, the new Landscape Architect should request a copy of a signed written release from the dismissed Landscape Architect that acknowledges that:

• Full payment has been received.• All original drawings and all other data as instruments of service completed to

date by the dismissed Landscape Architect, are now the legal property of the Client.

• The Client has unrestricted use of these instruments and does not need permission from the dismissed Landscape Architect to copy, modify or use them in any way to complete the project.

• Both the Client and dismissed consultant have no further claim whatsoever against the other with respect to the project or site.

Any formal release of this nature should be prepared by a lawyer and executed with legal representation by both parties.


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Either party may terminate the agreement with 14 days’ written notice to the other if:

a) modifications are proposed and the parties cannot agree on revised fees and delivery dates; b) either party is bankrupt, insolvent, seeks creditor protection or abandons the project; or c) an event of force majeure prevents timely completion of the services.

Either party may terminate the agreement with 10 days’ written notice to the other if the other party is in breach of its obligations and, if such breach can be remedied, fails to take action to remedy same within 10 days. The consultant shall be paid in full for services rendered up to the termination date.

6.5 Copyright and Ownership of Documents

The Copyright Act protects authors, of whom a Landscape Architect is one, whose expression of original work is made manifest in permanent form. The Act gives the original author the exclusive right to make copies of such work. The Act also gives the original author moral rights in the work, that is the protection of the integrity of the work and, as well as, the right to be reasonably associated with the work, i.e. get credit.

Where the work is prepared by an employee or under a contract of service, e.g. as agent of the Landscape Architect, then the employer or principal of the landscape architectural firm is deemed to be the original owner and author of the work. The owner of copyright may assign the right or license it to others if there is a specific written document to such effect. The owner may also waive, but not assign moral rights, if there is a specific written document to such effect.

Ownership of original drawings, specifications and other data as instruments of service, whether or not the work for which they were made has been executed, remain the property of the Landscape Architect. The drawings, after payment, become instruments of service in connection with the completion of the project designed. Implied is the right to make copies for such purpose only, but not for use on other projects.

Reproducible copies of final ‘As Constructed’ plans, or the original contract drawings should not be issued in any form until the client has paid all outstanding fees in full. A PDF (Portable Document Format) copy (or equal) of a plan or document is a photographic image of the original. Using PDF as the only means of sharing the final “as-constructed” digital information with clients is the preferred method as it technically protects the author’s Rights under the Copyright Act.

The decision of the Landscape Architect to release original digital drawings bearing their seal (stamp) and signature to the final owner, raises several concerns. Digital changes can be made and the revised plans can be used without the author’s knowledge. In the event of a lawsuit, the original author would be forced to defend themselves by producing


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the drawings that demonstrate they were not responsible for the alleged claims caused by the modifications. In addition, design solutions specific to one site could be copied and applied to another location where the site variables render the solution inappropriate and potentially dangerous to the public. The reuse of digital information prepared by others is contradictory to the moral and ethical behavior of OALA Members.

If a Client demands digital plans to be issued upon completion of an assignment, the author technically loses their rights under the Copyright Act. To avoid the potential consequences described above, the digital drawings should not be sealed (stamped) or signed by the Landscape Architect and the corporate identity of the author should be removed. A PDF copy of the original approved sealed and signed drawings could be issued along with the generic CAD files so there is a record of both. Any reuse or changes to the digital files by others would, therefore, fall under the seal and signature of the consultant and organization using the plans for their own purpose. The new author would also assume the liability associated with copying or using the information.


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7.0 Guidelines for Estimating Consultant Fees

7.1 Overview

This fee guide is provided to assist all who engage landscape architectural consultant services to determine fair and reasonable professional fees. All projects differ in type, size and complexity with corresponding payment scales. The consultant must clearly identify and explain professional services in relation to:

• The knowledge and skills to deliver an appropriate design within an appropriate budget

• The knowledge and skills to secure approvals and permits from governing agencies in order to expedite the work

7.2 Fair and Reasonable Fees

Essential considerations for determining fees include, but are not limited to, the following:• the time and effort required• the type and scale of the project• the uniqueness and complexity of the work • the special skills that may be required to perform the work • geographic location of the site or other special site conditions• historical context• the specified number of meetings with stakeholders• the number of submissions to obtain approvals• familiarity with the agencies that administer the approvals process• requirement for and frequency of public consultation• expert testimony

7.3 Relationship Between Budget and Fees

The budget available for the construction of a project will have a direct bearing on the fees needed to complete the work. Clients and consultants must be aware of the budget in order to determine the appropriate level of detail required. The relationship between project area (size) and budget must also be taken into account.

7.4 Fees, Tasks and Complexity

With the fee ranges provided and the levels of complexity described, the last criteria to consider is the number of services that need to be performed. By selecting the number of project services and the tasks necessary to complete them, the user can progressively determine the estimated staff levels and fee range required to complete a project. Project complexity typically increases with the number of required tasks, as well as, the project category.

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7.5 Levels of Complexity

Clients and consultants need to have a mutual understanding of a project’s design complexity. The following definitions describe three levels of complexity to assist in establishing the scope of work and ultimately a reasonable fee for consultant services. In all levels of complexity, project deliverables are produced in digital format as a standard requirement. For all projects, the level of service to be provided includes all steps necessary to obtain approval, produce contract documents and administer construction contracts through to final acceptance of the built work.

7.5.1 StandardThis level of service typically applies to a single project and Client with a straight forward approval process and minor municipal and environmental constraints. It includes a one-step design process with limited underground servicing infrastructure. This level requires a basic understanding of public health, safety and welfare and some knowledge of exterior building codes. There is no public consultation required or consultation would be limited to attendance only.

7.5.2 SkilledThis level of service requires a broader range of skills and coordination to obtain approvals. The conceptual design phase often requires several conceptual solutions from which the final design is developed. Detail design can require up to 4 submissions including coordination with subconsultants in each round.

Projects typically possess unique site conditions that require a higher degree of scrutiny and approval by the municipality and other agencies, non-standard design detailing, and more difficult municipal grading standards. The skilled level normally involves some specialization, e.g. LEED, arborist or aquatic biologist input, and public consultation with multimedia presentation responsibilities.

7.5.3 ComplexThis level of service applies where there are multiple stakeholders, multiple stages of approvals, numerous Client, team member and approval agency meetings, utility coordination, underground infrastructure and management of the consultant team when acting as prime consultant. Frequent and multi-faceted public consultation program with the community and multiple stakeholders.

Additional scope may include; heritage or archaeological components, site contamination, multiple sites, LEED recognized standards, and integrating the principles of sustainable development. Approvals may include National, Provincial and Municipal clearance with extensive public consultation and facilitation responsibilities during several stages of the design process. At this level, projects can span many years of design and phases of development and construction.


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7.6 Project Types By Category

Project types have been grouped into 3 categories. Projects in each category have similar characteristics requiring a range of skills and expertise. However, the complexity of any project can vary which may reflect on the Category it is listed under. Users are advised that this is a general guide subject to scale, size and complexity of a project. Discretion should be used when it is deemed appropriate to move a project type between categories. The three categories are correlated on the Percentage Method Fee Calculation Charts - Tables 4 and 5 in Appendices 8.1 and 8.2.

7.6.1 Category 1Scope: Primarily soft landscape planning and design projects in a greenfield context requiring grading, layout, planting, and associated facilities supporting pedestrian uses with minimal vehicular infrastructure. Projects generally outside of the urban realm.

1.1 Tree preservation plans1.2 Naturalization including storm water management (SWM) ponds, artificial wetlands, greenway corridors1.3 Rural multi-use trails 1.4 Agricultural estates 1.5 Camping sites and tourist facilities 1.6 Cemeteries, crematoria and gardens of remembrance 1.7 Rural recreational and regional parks1.8 Churches and places of worship1.9 Botanical gardens1.10 Low-rise single family residential1.11 Sales and marketing facilities and model homes1.12 Reclamation and restoration of quarries or derelict land (brownfields)1.13 Landscape planning1.14 Rural secondary school sites1.15 Transportation corridors

7.6.2 Category 2Scope: Projects more focused within the urban realm and fringe suburban growth areas requiring a broad range of design with integrated hard and soft landscape features that can incorporate vehicular infrastructure, active recreation facilities, art and leisure installations and architectural elements.

2.1 Vehicular circulation design, roadside facilities and parking lots2.2 Site plans for commercial and industrial developments 2.3 Urban office and commercial landscape plans2.4 Urban design and streetscape2.5 Mid-rise and live work subdivision housing2.6 Daycare and elementary school yards


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2.7 Secondary school grounds and playing fields 2.8 Bicycle trails in urban areas2.9 Neighbourhood parks, playgrounds and splash pads2.10 Community and district parks with multi-use sports facilities 2.11 Exhibition sites and urban recreation areas2.12 Roof top gardens, green roofs, and green walls2.13 Shoreline protection biodiversity – coastal and inland waters2.14 Sensitive sites – ESA (environmentally significant areas), archaeologically significant sites, ANSI sites

7.6.3 Category 3Scope: These are typically larger, more complex projects requiring the highest level of expertise, technical proficiency and specialization. Work in this category requires extensive research, coordination, collaboration, and reporting while working with a multi-disciplinary team of consultants.

3.1 Urban public squares3.2 Hospitals and health care facilities3.3 Zoo / safari / wildlife projects3.4 Museums3.5 Urban streetscapes 3.6 High-rise residential3.7 College and university campuses3.8 Coastal marinas and water recreation 3.9 Inland marinas, river and lakeside developments3.10 Urban environmental improvements 3.11 Historic garden design, restoration or conservation planning3.12 Amusement and theme parks / attractions3.13 Fountains and water features3.14 Golf course / resort properties3.15 Remote and international work

7.6.4 Exclusions to Project TypesThe following project types are not directly related to construction values and, therefore, it is recommended they would be remunerated on an hourly or fixed price basis.

Construction projects under $50,000Environmental assessments (EA)Siting studies and visual assessmentConservation and other environmental strategy planning studies: e.g. Environmental impact Statements (E.I.S.)Urban design guidelines


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7.7 Methods of Remuneration

The three most common methods of calculating fees are as follows.

7.7.1 Time Basis: Hourly Method and Per Diem RateHourly rates are commonly used to estimate the cost of consulting services when the scope of work is clearly defined. Staff time is estimated for the duration of the project and the total billable hours plus estimated disbursements represents the total fee. When a client agrees to an hourly rate contract he or she is basing this decision on trust and respect for the skills and reputation of the consultant. Hourly rate contracts will typically include an estimated construction value and an estimated lump sum fee from the consultant based on the hourly rates.

7.7.2 The Fixed Fee or Lump Sum MethodA fixed fee or lump sum agreement commits a consultant to a specific fee for a specific scope of work. This method can be used for smaller or basic projects where the scope is clearly and easily defined, the number of submissions is specified along with a clear description of the deliverables. The consultant assumes the risk to perform the work within the fixed fee offered. Failure to account for and describe all possible costs can leave the consultant exposed to extra costs with no means to collect for it. Typically hourly rates are assigned for all staff and the accumulated total of estimated hours times the billable rates represents the total Fixed Fee plus fixed disbursements.

It is recommended that rather than committing to an upset limit which imposes a fixed return for unknown risks, it is recommended that the consultant monitor the fees and provide the client with regular status and forecast updates.

7.7.3 The Percentage MethodWith this method, the fee is not based on the number of hours spent on the project.The percentage method of calculating fees is commonly used when there is a known construction budget and a well-defined scope of work that has been established over many similar projects.

There are two types of fees as a percentage of construction cost, based on the services to be included in the fee;

• Percentage fees for landscape architecture design services only, and• Percentage fees for landscape architecture design, contract administration,

and project management services.

For the purposes of this Fee Guide the percentage fee proposed in Tables 4 and 5 correspond with a full service scope of work as described by bullet 2 above.


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A smaller construction budget e.g. $100,000.00 will demand a higher percentage fee than a project with a budget of $1,000,000.00. This is because the efforts to design, administer and manage a project are not proportionate to the construction budget or a project‘s complexity.

Only one of these methods should be used for a given service within the same contract. Services may be charged using other methods presented in Table 1.

When calculating fees for the fixed price, lump sum or percentage method, there must be a clear written understanding of what is included in the contract price and what portion of the contract price is the responsibility of the Landscape Architect. The construction cost of the work means the contract price(s) of all elements of the project designed or specified by the Landscape Architect excluding applicable taxes. In all cases, Permit Fees should be excluded from the contract value and should be paid directly by the Client.

Where there is no estimated construction value or budget set for all or part of the project, the construction cost should be estimated at current market rates as determined by the Landscape Architect, or by a mutually agreed upon third party such as a quantity surveyor or cost consultant. The cost of this work is in addition to the estimated fees and should be paid for directly by the Client. The construction cost does not include the compensation of the Landscape Architect or the Landscape Architect’s consultants, the cost of land or other any soft costs, which are solely the responsibility of the Client.

The types of services offered by Landscape Architects should be in accordance with the methods presented below when the full service level is to be provided.

Table 1: SERVICES / FEE OPTIONS

Consolidated Service Hourly Rate Fixed Price Percentage

Consulting and advisory services a aPlanning and conceptual design a aSchematic and design development a aConstruction drawings a a aConstruction and contract administration a aPost construction services a a


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7.8 Hourly Rate Guide

The consulting fees in Table 2 are presented as a typical range of rates currently found within the profession based on title, expertise, experience, and responsibility. These rates are exclusive of taxes and expenses.

Table 2: RANGE OF TYPICAL HOURLY RATES (2016 dollars)

Staff Levels Billable Hourly RatesPartner / Principal $ 150 - $ 225Project Manager $ 130 - $ 170Senior Landscape Architect $ 125 - $ 170Intermediate Landscape Architect $ 100 - $ 130Project Coordinator $ 80 - $ 110Junior Landscape Architect (intern) $ 60 - $ 95Technical (CADD technicians) $ 55 - $ 85Graphic support and administration $ 45 - $ 60

7.9 Percentage - Fee Calculation Charts (see Appendices 8.1 and 8.2)

The Percentage Method Fee Calculation Charts on Table 4 and Table 5 use criteria presented in Section 7 (Level of Complexity, Project Type by Category,) and provide a guide to determining consultant fees for a variety of projects within a broad range of construction values.

Table 4 identifies only the landscape architectural fees with no subconsultants. Table 5 is similar, but includes the cost to pay for basic engineering subconsultant services that a Landscape Architect may employ to execute the work. These are estimating guides for basic engineering fees that may include structural, civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering. The engineering and other subconsultant fees may vary due to the specific of any project.

7.10 Service Delivery Weighting Guide: Table 3

Table 3 below summarizes the principal stages of service delivery for most assignments when the consultant is responsible for design, contract administration and certification of the built product.


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Site Planning Services Allocation of Fee

A Pre-design stage: site appraisal & advice on site/project suitability

Time basis or fixed fee recommended

B Feasibility studies, budget pricing Time basis or fixed fee recommended

C Master planning, public facilitation and reports Time basis or fixed fee recommended

D Programming and establishing development standards

Time basis or fixed fee recommended

E Site plan approval and rezoning applications Time basis

Site Design Services

F Conceptual design stage, sketch designs, and preliminary cost estimates 15 - 25%

G Detailed design stage, functional plan, materials selection, and cost estimates 15 - 25%

Total for F + G 40%

HPreparation of construction drawings, details, specifications, tender documents and pretender cost estimates

35 - 40%

I Tendering services 2 - 5%

Total for H + I 40%

JPeriodic construction review, reports and administration of contract including warranty review (minimal services) (1)

10-15% (1)

K Post construction review and approval 3-5%

Total for J + K 20%

Overall Total: A-K 100%

Table 3: SERVICE DELIVERY WEIGHTING GUIDE

(1) Note: the allocation of fees shown for periodic construction review is for minimal services to verify compliance with the contract documents. If more frequent reviews and on-site attendance are required, these services would be extra to the percentage breakdown listed above and a separate fee budget is required corresponding to the contract.


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7.11 Fee Payments

Percentage fees are normally paid at the end of each pre-agreed stage of work. Time based fees are normally paid at monthly intervals. Lump sum fees are normally paid at intervals by task or other agreement. Retainer or term commission fees are normally paid in advance for predetermined periods of service.

7.12 Task / Scope of Work Evaluation Chart

The Task / Scope of Work Evaluation Chart provided in Appendix 8.3 may be used to track the amount of time and level of expertise the consultant will need to apply to a given proposal. The chart is also helpful in determining the relative level of complexity. The total number of tasks required to be performed to satisfy the project requirements can indicate whether a project’s complexity is standard, skilled or complex.


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8.0 Appendices

8.1 Table 4 - Percentage Method Fee Calculation Chart (Landscape Architecture)

8.2 Table 5 - Percentage Method Fee Calculation Chart (Landscape Architecture & Engineering)

8.3 Task / Scope of Work Evaluation Chart

Table 4 - Percentage Method Fee Calculation Chart (Landscape Architecture Only)This chart may be used to estimate the budget for landscape architectural services without engineering fees

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Part Two: OALA Fee Guide for Landscape Architectural ServicesMarch 27, 2016

Appendix 8.1

COST OF CONSTRUCTION(exluding taxes)

$50,000 -<$100,000

$100K -<$150K

$150K -<$300K

$300K -<$600K

$600K -<$1mil

$1mil -<$2mil

$2mil -<$5mil

$5mil -<$10mil

$10mil +over

K = $1000 mil = $million

CATEGORY COMPLEXITY

1standard 12.00 11.00 10.00 9.00 8.00 7.50 6.50 6.00 6.00

skilled 13.00 12.00 11.00 10.00 9.00 8.00 7.50 6.50 6.50

complex 14.00 13.00 12.00 11.00 10.00 8.50 8.50 7.00 7.00

2standard 15.25 14.50 13.50 12.50 11.50 10.25 9.25 8.25 7.25

skilled 16.25 15.50 14.50 13.50 12.50 11.50 10.25 9.25 8.25

complex 17.25 16.50 15.50 14.50 13.50 12.50 11.50 10.25 9.25

3standard 18.50 17.50 16.50 15.50 14.50 13.50 12.50 11.50 10.50

skilled 20.50 19.50 18.50 17.50 16.50 15.50 14.50 13.50 12.50

complex 22.50 21.50 20.50 19.50 18.50 17.50 16.50 15.50 14.50

NOTES1. This chart is a guide for calculating consultant fees for Landscape Architects based on the total value of construction.

This chart is to be read in conjunction with the clauses under Section 7.0 Guidelines for Estimating Consultant Fees. Use of the percentage method is defined under subsection 7.7 Remuneration and on Table 1: Services/Fee Options.

2. “Category” Refers to a project type as described under subsection 7.6 “Project Type by Category” The specific challenges of the site and/or approvals may advance a project to the next category.

3. “Complexity” This is defined under subsection 7.5 “Levels of Complexity”

Table 5 - Percentage Method Fee Calculation Chart (Landscape Architecture & Engineering)This chart may be used to estimate the budget for landscape architectural services with basic engineering fees (civil, structural, electrical)

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Part Two: OALA Fee Guide for Landscape Architectural ServicesMarch 27, 2016

Appendix 8.2

COST OF CONSTRUCTION(exluding taxes)

$50,000 -<$100,000

$100K -<$150K

$150K -<$300K

$300K -<$600K

$600K -<$1mil

$1mil -<$2mil

$2mil -<$5mil

$5mil -<$10mil

$10mil +over

K = $1000 mil = $million

CATEGORY COMPLEXITY

1standard 13.00 12.50 12.00 11.50 11.00 10.00 8.50 8.00 7.50

skilled 13.50 13.00 12.50 12.00 11.50 10.50 9.00 8.50 8.00

complex 14.50 14.00 13.50 13.00 12.50 11.50 10.00 9.50 9.00

2standard 17.50 17.00 15.50 14.50 13.25 12.00 10.85 10.00 9.25

skilled 18.75 17.75 16.75 15.75 14.50 13.50 12.15 11.50 10.25

complex 20.25 19.25 18.25 17.05 15.85 14.65 13.45 12.50 11.50

3standard 22.00 20.00 19.75 19.00 18.00 16.00 15.00 14.00 13.00

skilled 24.00 22.00 21.75 20.50 20.00 18.00 17.00 16.00 15.00

complex 26.00 25.00 24.00 23.00 22.00 20.50 19.50 19.00 18.00

NOTES1. This chart is a guide for calculating consultant fees based on the total value of construction.

For projects requiring more involved engineering services, use Table 4 to determine Landscape Architect’s fees, plus consult the relevant fee guides of the respective professional engineer associations for the specific engineering disciplines. This chart is to be read in conjunction with the clauses under Section 7.0 Guidelines for Estimating Consultant Fees. Use of the percentage method is defined under subsection 7.7 Remuneration and on Table 1: Services/Fee Options.

2. “Category” Refers to a project type as described under subsection 7.6 “Project Type by Category” The specific challenges of the site and/or approvals may advance a project to the next category.

3. “Complexity” This is defined under subsection 7.5 “Levels of Complexity”

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Appendix 8.3 - OALA TASK / SCOPE OF WORK EVALUATION CHART

NOTESITEM TASKS YES NO High Medium Low

1 Approval Processa. Municipal client group approvalsb. Planning department approvals (site plan)c. Building department approvald. Landscape plan approvale. Tree removal approvals (urban forestry)f. Federal Regulations (Dept. of Fisheries & Oceans, National Capital Commission,g. Provincial Regulations (Niagara Escarpment Commission, Conservation Authority, etc.)h. All utility coordinationi. Other (list)

2 Design Processa. Single conceptual design schemeb. 2-3 conceptual design schemesc. Single public consultation process, minutes, responsed. Full ratepayer facilitation/steering committeee. Design for LEED rated projects:f. Design for green infrastructure, including low impact development (LID)

3 Co-ordination / Consultant Team Management Rolea. Cost consulting coordinationb. Architectural coordinationc. Engineering coordinationd. Surveyor coordinatione. Soils investigation and testing coordinationf. Other (list)

4 Incorporating Reportsa. Visual assessmentsb. Planning reportsc. Noise attenuation reportsd. Tree inventory reportse. Arborist, rare and endangered species reportsf. Other (list)

5 Working Drawing Scopea. Layout, grading and standard detailsb. Lighting plansc. Irrigation plansd. Tree preservation planse. Planting plansf. Custom construction detailsg. Other (list)

6 Tender Documentsa. Front end schedulesb. Special provisionsc. General conditionsd. Single form of tendere. Phased contract documents, multiple tendersf. Specificationsg. Tendering services

7 Construction Servicesa. Bi-weekly inspectionsb. Weekly inspectionsc. Resident (daily) supervisiond. Contract administration (meeting minutes, P.C.s, change orders)e. Construction management (authority over contractor)f. Substantial completion inspection and certificate.g. Warranty inspectionh. Final acceptance certificationi. As-built drawings - digital

Totals: (50 possible tasks)

STANDARD 10-20 TASKSSKILLED 21-35 TASKSCOMPLEX 36-50 TASKS H M L

SCOPE OF WORKPROPOSAL REQMT EFFORT REQUIREMENT

Note: Tasks that are not stated as requirements, but are normally included in the scope of work, should be brought to the attention of the client.Tasks that are not included in the scope of work must be clearly described in the assumption section of the proposal as not included in the total fee.

Degree of Difficulty(circle one)

End of Part Two

Published by the ONTARIO ASSOCIATION OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS3 Church Street, Suite 506, Toronto, Ontario M5E 1M2

416-231-4181 | www.oala.ca | [email protected]

Copyright © 2016 OALAAll rights reserved

March 27, 2016

The Engaging a Landscape Architect series has been prepared in four (4) separate parts as guide publications, under the following titles:

Part One: OALA Guide to Landscape Architectural Services Part Two: OALA Fee Guide for Landscape Architectural Services (this volume) Part Three: OALA Guide to Standard Written Agreements Part Four: OALA Guide to Design Competitions

Please visit the Engaging a Landscape Architect page on www.oala.ca/LAguide to read and learn more about each publication.

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