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How to hire an architect

How to hire an architect

What RIBA says...

  • "A RIBA chartered architect will provide you with much more than just the drawings for your new home or alteration. You'll be fully involved in creating a tailored solution for your living needs. An architect has the experience to see your project through to completion, overseeing the design, planning and building regulations, builders and your budget."

1. Why use an architect?
An architect will do all or some of the following:

  • Help you decide what to do with your building.
  • Translate your ideas into a design to suit your budget.
  • Help you get planning permission and meet all required building regulations.
  • Manage the construction phase, from choosing builders to keeping within budget.

    2. Make sure you get a qualified firm
    In the UK, qualified architects must be registered with the Architects Registration Board (ARB). Only registered architects who belong to the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) can be called chartered architects. To find a UK-based RIBA chartered practice, visit architecture.com and search by name, area or project size.

    3. Research firms
    Make a shortlist of suitable firms. Visit websites, read any recommendations and contact previous clients to ask what each firm was like to work with.

    4. Make a shortlist
    Call each firm, describing your project and timescale to check their expertise and availability. If possible, request a brochure that details their qualifications and experience.

    5. Arrange meetings
    Visit several practices in person – three to five will give you good grounds for comparison. At each, meet one of the senior architects to assess whether that company will suit you. Ask questions such as, 'What do you consider to be the most important factors of the project?' or 'What are the challenges likely to be?'

    6. Choose an architect
    Technical competence, good design ability and a professional attitude are all things to look out for, but most of all, pick the architect who best understands all of your expectations and with whom you think you can work well.

    7. Get in touch with your council
    Ask your local council about building regulations and planning in your area, or visit direct.gov.uk. Your council may also be able to offer advice or recommend reliable building firms.

    8. Discuss the project
    Once you've chosen your architect, arrange a meeting so you can agree on what's expected and put it in writing. The final agreement should detail all of the services you will need and their cost.

    9. Write a brief
    This is written with your architect and describes the functions of the building, your style and expectations, and sets a timetable and budget.

    10. Estimate the cost
    Use the Cost Estimator on architectyourhome.com (under Our Services). The site describes the factors that will affect cost, and uses a table based on the size of
    your project as a price guide.

    11. Calculate the fee
    Architects' fees are based on a percentage of the total construction cost, a lump sum agreed by you, or a rate based on their time used. You do not have to use all the architect's services; choose what suits you, from a design discussion to overseeing building works.

    12. Plan for surprises
    Make allowances in your budget and timescale for unforeseen extras. Expect to go over your initial budget and make sure you have a contingency fund that will cover the unexpected.

    13. Get a contract
    RIBA publishes a form of agreement between you and your architect called the D-Con-07 (domestic project agreement), £19.98, which is suitable for work on your home. Call 020 7256 7222.

    14. Provide a contact
    To avoid confusion, nominate one person as the architect’s point of contact, who will sign off all decisions.

    15. Draw up the plans
    Once planning approval is gained, your architect will prepare drawings for builders in order to obtain quotes. Your architect may also suggest a form of building contract.

    • Related sections: Escape To The Country , Put Your Money Where Your House Is , Restored To Glory , Architects , Planning & renovating

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