Architects fees for house remodel

Rjc84

I want to gauge the quote my architect has just given me by asking advice in here. I've used the search feature and it seems there are some helpful people here within this sector.

My intention is to convert a 200sqm bungalow into a modestly contemporary large home of around 300sqm including large loft conversion. I've given my architect some basic details, a little more than what I've listed here with a picture of the style I am hoping to achieve. He's come back with these figures:

His full project fee for this work would be £15,000 which breaks down as follows
Design and planning £4,500
Building regulations, construction detail drawings and specification - £4,500
Site inspections, supervision, reporting & drawing amendments - !!!!!!!!!!!! £6,000

At first I thought this was very high, then I thought perhaps I'm just basing that feeling on the figure alone. He wants to meet on site to go through the design in more detail as he's just done a drive by so far it I want to be prepared with at least some relevant questions that stretch to more than just "What am I getting for my money", or are there figures, especially building regs, to be expected.

First time posting so be kind


!

theonlywayisup

You do not need an architect for planning or building regulations drawings.

What is it you want from an architect?

Rjc84

I've used a different architect before on smaller projects as I want the plans to go through with as little resistance from the planning dept as possible. I'm a believer in letting the people that are in the know do what they do for the project to be as efficient as possible. In this case I think I'm going to push the design to the point where I really need a professional to put my arguments forward to planning in the correct way, and also tell me if my ideas are never going to pass consent.

theonlywayisup

If you want expertise in planning then a planning consultant will be cheaper and equally (if not more experienced).

If you want to proceed with an architect and are querying the cost then you need to approach more than one for a balance view.

If you want to do it in a more cost effective (but no less correct way) then an architect is not necessarily the way to go.

We've built and renovated and currently have a complex of 8 holiday cottages that was a barn with several outbuildings some 14 years ago. We didn't use an architect once - caveat being that I did our planning (I use Autocad and can draw) but we used a planning consultant on the barn and took the rest on ourselves.

It is achievable to do alone or with a little help, but like anything you can also pay a lot for it.