### Question
How is the "cost of construction" defined?


### Answer
The term **cost of construction** is defined in *38 U.S.C. § 8131* as follows -

> the amount found by the Secretary to be necessary for a construction project, including architect fees, but excluding land acquisition costs

#### Citation:
  - *38 U.S.C. § 8131*
  - Heading: **PART VI-ACQUISITION AND DISPOSITION OF PROPERTY > CHAPTER 81-ACQUISITION AND OPERATION OF HOSPITAL AND DOMICILIARY FACILITIES; PROCUREMENT AND SUPPLY; ENHANCED-USE LEASES OF REAL PROPERTY > SUBCHAPTER III-STATE HOME FACILITIES FOR FURNISHING DOMICILIARY, NURSING HOME, AND HOSPITAL CARE**

