Architect fees and services

[Chabby]

Can anyone help me out please with all the different things I need a architect for to build a rear single storey extension?

We're at planning application stage so he's done existing and proposed elevations but I'm not sure what else in the next stages I really need our architect for. I'm not too impressed by him and he's expensive. I suspect if I ask him what's next he'll expand his role and over charge.

Do I need him to deal with party wall matters, and what should that cost? Do I need him to liaise with a structural engineer or can I just use his drawings and hire an engineer myself? What else do I need him for?

I know I should have researched all this beforehand but I'm managing a lot of other building and roofing work and I've let this slip! Hopefully we'll get planning permission in 8 weeks, but then what?

Thanks for any advice!!

[AnneElliott]

You'll need building regs drawings although you can get someone else to do those if you're not impressed with the architect.

No reason why you can't speak to the engineer yourself although when DH does drawings he will usually do that.

[0hCrepe]

Building firms often have their own contacts for structural engineers, building control drawings etc. so it might be worth getting builders to quote and ask them about it. I had bad experience with and architect and wish I'd started more with experienced builders.

[Chabby]

Thanks for your responses! Been doing a bit of research. I was getting the feeling he wasn't just expensive but money-grabbing, confirmed by the fact he's trying to convince me he should act as our party wall surveyor when all the advice says not to use your architect!
Thanks

[AnneElliott]

The party wall thing does seem odd. DH usually gives recommendations if clients want them as that is a specialist area.

Hope your project goes well.