Choosing the right architect for your home extension project is important if you want to achieve the results you are after. Knowing precisely what they can offer you, however, can be a little confusing. To help you understand what to expect from your architect, we’ve drawn up a few fundamental questions you should be asking before work goes ahead.
1. Will You Be Carrying Out A Measured Survey, & Do I Actually Need One?
As anyone in the construction industry will be well aware, an architectural design must be based on accurate floor plans. Whilst many architects will offer to carry out a measured survey to come up with new plans, this may be unnecessary if floor plans already exist. Indeed, if you purchased your home within the past couple of decades, you are unlikely to need a measured survey. Your floor plans may even be available online.
2. Do I Need To Obtain Planning Permission?
Not all homeowners need planning permission before embarking on an extension project. Indeed, if your plans abide by certain restrictions set out by governmental legislation, you will not need to submit a planning application. Any architect worth their salt will be able to tell you whether or not you need permission, as well as design plans that are likely to gain approval. This is an important question to ask as it will affect how quickly your plans can start to take shape.
3. How Long Is The Project Likely To Take?
A good architect will be able to give you a clear timeline that sets out how long the project is likely to take. They should break the timeline down into steps such as designing, drafting, obtaining planning permission, and the building process itself. Of course, not every project will be completed exactly on time as it is important to factor in issues beyond your control, such as adverse weather conditions for building or delays in planning permission approval.
4. Have I Chosen The Best Part Of The House To Extend?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the design and placement of your extension - architects are always happy to use their expertise to advise clients. Indeed, some extension areas may be more cost-effective or structurally sound than others, and your architect should be able to advise you on this.
5. When Can We Schedule Meetings?
If you lead a busy 9-5 life, it can be difficult to set up meetings with an architect. In this way, it is always worth asking whether they are willing to meet you outside of office hours to ensure the project goes ahead in a smooth and timely fashion.
For help and advice on all things architectural, call BDS today!
