The topic of fees

Architect’s fees vary a great deal – so does the work they do and how they do it. This means that it is up to the client to research into who they would like to engage, in order to get what they think they require.  

Clearly you (as the reader) have some understanding of what an architect with their experience and training can add to your proposed project vs someone who can draw a picture – which is why you’re here on the website of an architects practice, reading their blog.

So, have you thought about what you are expecting through the process of appointing an architect?

1. Are you looking for some element of design along with statutory permissions?
2. Is it a well thought through solution that you’re after / something beyond the permissions – one that is conveyed into a drawing that can be translated into instructions that can be used to plan, cost & build – and all that with reduced risk?
3. Or is it simply budget driven – to get past the authorities?

In the past, the cost of engaging an architect was straightforward as the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) had published fee scales for members to use to decide how much they should charge which regulated fees for architects. Mandatory until 1982, it was abolished as a recommended guide a decade later in favour of a more competitive market. With it went the decisive factor of selecting an architect based on their speciality / skill, and instead on cost.

These are the different ways that architects calculate their fees –

Fixed fees – This is an amount that the architect calculates based on how much time they anticipate a set task would take. It is then agreed with the client (prior to any work beginning).

Percentage fees – This is generally based between 3% and 15% of the total construction cost & calculated based on factors such as the level of (anticipated) involvement, complexity (of the project) and the (particular) architect’s experience

Hourly rates – This method is used when the involvement (in terms of time and work) is difficult to gauge, so an hourly (or daily rate) is agreed – with a minimum and maximum cap on hours that will be charged.

Sometimes, expenses are included in the agreed fee, sometimes these may be added on top – for travel, printing etc.

Personal note – the very mention of ‘fees’, can make a room go quiet – we all know that it can be a very touchy subject.

With residential work, we have times when a client desperately requests that our quote be reduced. We understand that high costs and risks associated with permissions and construction can be scary – and more so when it involves a family home and possibly a considerable chunk of savings. As a practice, our quotes are generally tight for this same reason.

And this is exactly the reason why our input needs to be done right – and that does require a little more time. We find that a lot of clients have already considered what they believe to be ‘the design’ when they contact us, expecting that an architect offers safe hands for a drawing – rather than trained & experienced insight!

We still go the extra mile knowing full well that we ought to have been paid for it (and often we’re certain the client knows this too – which can be a little bit annoying)!

Consider your budget but be wise when you pick your architect – and don’t let cost be the only determining factor. It might give you that cherry (you never expected), on the top of your long-awaited cake!