Real Life MMD: Should I let bro-in-law do the architecture?

MBr

jenblackrod wrote: »

I think you'll have to choose him or fall out with your sister. You could show him the other quotes and ask him exactly what hes quoted for, as it might be a more extensive service hes offering?

Totally disagree.... what if it all goes wrong... you certainly going to have a fall out then!
Please read Maat's post, I have just quoted it in my previous post...
Talk to each other, be honest about how you feel etc.
Not just doing it, cause "you fall out with your sister"... that's not how you work with people...

Mich_22

Hi

Speaking as a qualified architect - I'd definately say no!!
Even if his rates were reasonable (and they're not for a family member), he probably won't have PI insurance that he needs once he's qualified, nor the experience.
You'd be surprised at the type of problematic things that can crop up during a simple extension project that could cost £thousands to sort out. You don't want to sour family relationships if something were to go wrong.

I have to assume from the sorts of quotes you have that the architects are only involved with planning and/or building regulations drawings and no more, and that the extension is pretty small.

It might well be that your B-I-L is more than capable to this level, but I'd definately discuss the fees with him. If you want to help him out by giving him experience in the field then fine, but you shouldn't be paying the going rate for something if you're doing him a favour by letting him do the work.

If the other quotes you have are for a full service (site/contract supervision etc) then I'd be wary of such low fees too. They may be calling themselves "Architects" when they're not, which is illegal for a start! Though that's not to say that an Architectural Technician couldn't do the work.

To be sure, ask to see their ARB registration card - all qualified architects are required to have a current one.

Good luck - and if you're still looking, depending where you live, I'd be happy to quote!

Mich_22

FattyBettyBoo wrote: »

He's not doing you any favours with the price so you don't need to do him any favours by giving him the work. Get the most competitive quote.

My OH worked for his cousin's OH and ended up getting fired - family relations are now really strained. I'd stay well clear. Architects are always likely to have disagreements with their clients, which could cause long term bad feelings.

think it's a bit unfair and not true to say all architects are bound to have disagreements with their clients! A good architect should listen to the clients needs and do their level best to fulfil their wishes, not inflict their own aspirations upon people. That goes hand in hand with the clients picking somebody they have a good rapport with, and that can be established in one meeting.

fedupwithjunk

Any descent BiL would be offering it for free. He sounds like a prat

Ladyhawk

No no no!! Even if he offered to do it for free! Don't mix business with family

fifty-something

He is taking the p*ss. Top rate for barely qualified? What sort of mug is even thinking about it?