Are architects necessary

[blue22]

I'm planning (still at the dreaming stage tbh!) an extension to our new house. Do we NEED an architect, or can a builder do it himself? How much does an architect cost if you just get the plans drawn up and don't need big 'concepts' from them? TIA

Not sure how big your budget is but really architects aren't so expensive and if you get a good one who writes you good tender and contract documents there's a chance they'll save you a lot of hassle and money, especially if you get them to administrate the project.

I've got two building projects on the go at the moment using architects and one just finished without an architect and undoubtedly we got better value with the architect checking over the builders' shoulders.

What about a building surveyor? Quite a few offer design work and i find tend to be a bit more practical with their ideas instead of as you said 'concepts'.