Frequently Asked Questions

Do you operate outside of Andalucia?

Yes. We operate throughout Europe.

Do you do commercial and non residential buildings?

Yes. We can do schools, apartment blocks, hotels, retirement homes and we expect to do more of this in 2010.

Can you help me get a mortgage?

Yes. We can put you in touch with mortgage brokers who will help you raise the finance for your project. You will be looking for a construction mortgage. Once we have introduced you then you will deal directly with them to raise the finance.

Can you help me get a grant?

Yes. Each region has different grants available. In Andalucia there are grants available for energy saving devices and renewable energy generation devices. There are also substantial grants for ecological construction projects in the tourist industry.

Will You Convert an Existing Building Into an Energy Efficient Building?

Yes. Tell us what you have in mind and we will look at it.

How much is a topographical survey?

It obviously depends upon the complexity and size of the site. For a regular plot of 1,000 sq metres it could be between €500 and €1,500.

What are the charges for making changes once I have signed the fixed price contract?

It depends on what you want and when you ask for the change. It is easier to modify things in the early stages. Generally we find that the gradual process of consultation and decision making means that we are all certain before we start that we’ve got it right for the right reasons.

We also recognize that it can happen that you wish to change something and you will find us surprisingly helpful and cooperative. You should also bear in mind that changes might be expensive. A construction project is carefully thought through, planned and costed. Materials and services may have been contracted and paid for. Even small changes have a snowball effect. That is why we have a get-it-right-first-time culture and will be working with you to get it right first time.

Can you handle the site preparation work?

Yes. In fact we would generally expect to handle this. That way there is one operator on site from start to finish, which is efficient. The costs will vary from site to site which is why we don’t include a figure for this in the price per square metre. Bear in mind that an Eco Vida building is very tolerant of difficult site conditions and you may expect to pay less in site preparation costs than with a heavy traditional construction method.

Apart from your contract what else do I have to pay? What’s my complete list so I can calculate my total cost?

• The land
• Topographical survey
• Geotechnical report
• The site preparation. We expect to handle this and can start to indicate the cost at Step 3 and firm up on this at Step 5.
• The contract with us to design and construct your building.
• Landscaping. We expect to handle this too. We can start to indicate the cost at Step 3 and firm up on this at Step 5.
• Legal Fees (Notaría, Registro de la Propiedad)
• Taxes
• Connection to utilities services

All of these may be estimated at step 5.

Do I get the 10 year guarantee?

Yes. As required by law you receive a 10 year guarantee on your building and we have professional indemnity insurance which covers any claim in the unlikely event that one were made.