Architects are skilled professionals governed by a strict Code of Professional Conduct set out by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) in order to protect the interest of the public. Architects must also carry appropriate Professional Indemnity Insurance should anything go wrong for the Client.

Architects can add great value to a project both financially and with its design. When you hire an Architect they will also:

• Work closely with the Client and translate your ideas and dreams into a building perfect for your needs.
• Guide you through the requirements of the law and regulations.
• Give unbiased advice about methods of construction appropriate to your project.
• Help you choose a contractor and co-ordinate a team of specialist consultants such as, engineers, quantity surveyors, builders and subcontractors.
• Look beyond your immediate requirements to design flexible buildings that will adapt with your changing needs.
• Create a well designed building that can reduce your bills now and increase its long-term value, saving you money by maximizing your investment.
• Design with an holistic approach taking into consideration all aspects of the building and its users, creatively solving problems while ensuring you get value for money
• Guide you through the complex procedures of planning permission and building regulations and oversee the whole project from start through to completion.

When hiring an Architect you can employ them for your entire project or to advise on particular parts, depending on your needs. At Architect’s HQ Ltd we offer a full architectural service including:

• Ideas and advice
• Brief development
• Feasibility studies
• Site surveys
• CAD drafting services
• Listed building advice
• Planning applications
• Building regulations applications
• Construction detailing
• Contract administration
• Design for the disabled
• Refurbishment, new build or remedial designs
• Interior and landscape design
• Party Wall advice
• Oversee onsite construction

Read more for our specialist service.

This will always depend on the type of project and the level of involvement you require from your Architect. To quote figures without knowing the project details would be misleading. Generally there are 3 ways an Architect may charge;

• A lump sum calculated on the expected work required
• An hourly rate
• A percentage of the contract sum

Some companies offer fee packages which may give the client a better initial idea of costs but are not tailored to individual projects which may mean the client could lose value for money paying for services that are not necessarily required.

At Architect’s HQ Ltd, following an initial free consultation with the client, we will provide a written scope of works showing the breakdown of services provided, their associated costs and when payment would be expected. This means there will be no unexpected hidden costs to the client. If initially it is not clear how the project will proceed, or the client wishes, we can provide an hourly rate of £60 – £90 p/h depending on the work involved. For larger projects, should the client prefer, a percentage cost can be agreed.

When choosing an Architect, like with most things, the cheapest is not always the best option to go for. Make sure you know fully what you are paying for and that it is appropriate for your needs.

Anybody advertising their services as an Architect must be registered with the ARB.

The ARB, Architects Registration Board, is the UK’s statutory regulators of Architects. They are an independent public interest body, with the key functions of:

• Prescribing the qualifications needed to become an Architect
• Keeping a register of all Architects in the UK
• Ensuring that Architects meet the standards for conduct and practice
• Investigate complaints about Architects
• Making sure only people of the register can use the title Architect

If you are wanting to employ an Architect ensure you ask for their ARB membership number to check they are fully qualified. You can find out further information on the ARB at their website.

You do not have to be a member of the RIBA to advertise your services as an Architect but most Architects do. To become a full chartered member and use the affix of RIBA you must be a fully qualified Architect having been awarded qualifications for Parts 1, 2 & 3 confirmed by the ARB.

The RIBA, Royal Institute of British Architects is the UK body for architecture and the architecture profession. They provide support for members and aim to advance architecture by demonstrating benefit to society and promoting excellence in the profession.

You can find out further information on the RIBA at their website.

At Architect’s HQ Ltd, we aim to complete drawings within 7 – 14 days of surveying the property or receiving a measuring pack.

Payment for site survey is payable on the day that the survey is undertaken.

Payment is due upon completion of drawings.

At Architect’s HQ Ltd, we will submit your application once we have received payment and you have checked over the drawings and are happy with us to proceed.

You will receive a PDF copy and 1 Paper copies. Additional paper copies are charged at £5 per set.

For information on Building Regulations, please click here.

We will advise you on whether you will require structural calculations and can provide a price to complete the work.

A decision is usually made within 4 – 8 weeks.

Yes, you can expect to be visited on several occasions by a council building control officer.

Yes. Depending on your design, a structural engineer/acoustic engineer will be required and fee are additional for their services.

See Glossary to find out, please click here.