Do we need an architect? How much did an architect cost you?

[Bumbleebeetree]

Hi, we're in the early stages of planning a small front extension on our house to add on a toilet and porch. The extension will be 3m x 1. 5m. I think we will need planning permission. I hadn't anticipated needing an architect because the extension is so small but the builder has suggested we use his son. Do you think an architect is necessary for such a small extension? How much should we expect to pay for architect?

Thanks!

No, you don't need an architect. However if you need planning (and I agree you probably do even for a small extension at the front) you DO need drawings. Those drawings could be done by an architect or architectural technician, but they could be done by anyone with a pen and a ruler. If your builder has suggested his son, it could just be that he's got the CAD software and can run you up some professional looking accurate drawings that will serve the purpose and he'll be way cheaper than getting an architect.

my Husband did the plans for our loft extension. Two rooms and a bathroom. I don’t think you need an architect for something straightforward. I’m not surprised the builder is suggesting his son though…..

It might fall into the realms of permitted development though, ours did. But it may depend if you are in a conservation area etc.

V rare for a front extension to be PD so at the very least I'd want a certificate of lawful development in case I wanted to sell. You need reasonably sensible drawings to give to builder/planning dept./ building control but doesn't need to a full architect as others said

No you don't.

You will need planning / certificate of lawful development because front extensions don't come under PD. You need a D&B contractor.

Thanks for all your replies. Very helpful.

Where are you? I would say you need someone qualified to do the plans and permission. We used an architect to do our design and they also got us the permitted development certificate for our loft (council still had to check it was correctly under PD rights) and confirm it was the case x

You might need some formal plans and calculations for planning and building control, though bit of a red flag he's suggested his son 🤔

I'd grab a few quotes just to have the comparison. If you're in London we used a company called Home Tales to design and obtain planning permission for our extension, they were very upfront on cost.

Thanks for your replies. Sounds like I might have to splash out and reluctantly hire an architect 😂We're near Bristol.

Front of the house - I'd get an architect - so many carbuncles are being added to houses.