All my services are based around the work stages of the RIBA Plan of Work. This is a standard plan of action that can be adapted for any project. Generally I work to the following stages (RIBA 0-4) for small and medium sized projects. For these projects the client normally finds and works directly with the builder (RIBA 5-7). However, I can be available to answer queries from a builder and can make a site visit to resolve an issue if required working on an hourly rate basis.
Free Meeting
Before you get started it’s good to get some general advice and to talk to someone who can understand what you want to do. That’s why I offer a free one hour consultation to all our potential clients. This is a time when you can share your dreams and ideas and receive some feedback. I can explain the process you will need to go through to complete your project and you can meet me and see if you want me to work with you. After this meeting I will give you a fee quote and you can choose whether you want to appoint me.
Measured Survey
You may have some existing drawings of your property. Whilst these are useful as a guide in the early stages of a project, I will need to take accurate measurements prior to starting the design. I will discuss this with you to decide if it needs an outside surveyor to provide a topographical survey or if a measured survey by myself will suffice.
Planning & Building Regulations
This service is generally suitable for most home extensions and general works. It is broken down into three stages. The total fee will be agreed with you in advance and will be one of three bands based on the cost and complexity of the project. These bands have been refined over twenty years of experience to provide a simple and fair way to work.
Concept Design - You will have some ideas about what you want to do, but may not have finally decided which direction you want to go, I can explore a range of ideas and advise you on the practicalities of these. The aim is to give you confidence to proceed with a full project if this is appropriate.
Developed Design - Once a concept has been agreed I will develop this design and submit drawings for planning approval to the local council on your behalf.
Technical Design - Once Planning Permission has been granted (or in some cases prior to approval) I will prepare the technical drawings and details necessary to comply with the Building Regulations. I will liaise with a structural engineer and other consultants as necessary, then submit an application on your behalf. I will respond to any questions raised by the building inspector on your behalf.