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The Katrina Cottage: Frequently Asked Questions

The Katrina Cottage is one group's answer to the Gulf region's housing crisis following Hurricane Katrina. It's a small home, that can be added on to, modified and even used as a guest house, once the main home is completed. The following is a list of Frequently Asked Questions about the cottage. Please be sure to click on the video to the right to learn more about this innovative housing solution.
 
Can I make changes to the floor plans beyond the existing designs?

It is possible to have custom changes made by hiring a local architect to modify the plans. The supplies needed to make the revisions are not supplied as part of the Lowe's Katrina Cottage material package. Modified plans are derivative works based on the original design and may only be used by the purchaser of the original plans for constructing their Katrina Cottage.

Will the Katrina Cottage require ground reinforcement or a foundation?

Because Katrina Cottages are considered permanent structures, they do require a foundation and in some cases, local ordinances may require the house to be built on piers. Make sure to follow all local building codes when constructing a Katrina Cottage. The homeowner will need to check the flood elevation of the lot to ensure the piers are set at the proper height.

How much assembly is required?  Do I need my own contractor?

Katrina Cottages are designed to be stick built homes and will require a professional builder.  Although much of the work can be performed by a qualified Do-it-Yourselfer, there are several steps in the process that will have to be inspected by a qualified home inspector.  A professional builder will be well aware of how to build homes according to local codes. Lowe's does not install or build Katrina Cottages; however, local contractors can be located through area Chamber of Commerce.

How long does it take to build a Katrina Cottage?

The construction time of a Katrina Cottage is dependant on the style and type of cottage being built. A cottage can be done in as little as 6 weeks, but variables, such as weather, may come into play.  Always talk with your contractor when working out build timelines.

What is included in the cost of a Katrina Cottage?

A Katrina Cottage materials package from Lowe's includes all the products you'll need for the house from the foundation plate up. Studs, wall panels, insulation, fixtures, electrical, plumbing, even appliances are included. The homeowner need only supply the foundation and/or piers, HVAC system, and furniture.

How much does it cost?

The price for the materials is based upon the cost of each item included on the material list and will vary depending upon the size and style of the Katrina Cottage and the current commodity prices. Estimated price for materials for comparison purposes start at $45-$55 per square foot plus shipping and fees. The construction costs of building the home, the foundation and pier materials and HVAC system are not included in the cost.

How is Lowe's Companies, Inc. involved?

Lowe's has been talking with Marianne Cusato and other leading architects about how we might be a part of the housing solution for families along the Gulf Coast who were affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. We worked closely with Marianne on the plan books, building materials list and provided materials for some of the first cottages constructed. We believe it is important to help families get back into homes as quickly as possible and Katrina Cottages are a great, affordable option for many families.

Where/How/When can I get a Katrina Cottage?

Lowe's is proud to offer Katrina Cottages starting in late 2006. The materials required to build four different floor plan options will be available for purchase at select Mississippi and Louisiana area Lowe's stores and will be delivered directly to the jobsite (subject to restrictions. See stores for details.). A full selection of Katrina Cottage blue prints will be available at all Lowe's stores nationwide.

What is the lead time for delivery?

The delivery lead time from the Lowe's distribution center will be 4-6 weeks from the time of placing an order.  Make sure to talk with a Lowe's Katrina Cottage Sales Associate for exact details.

How will the cottage be delivered?

The materials necessary to build one of four floor plan options of Katrina Cottage will be delivered in multiple jobsite shipments to help the builder manage the amount of raw materials on the jobsite.

courtesy of the IWPR Group