Who does what on a building project, when you need them, and roughly what they cost.
A building project can involve a surprising number of people. Here is who they are and when they matter, so you know exactly what you are paying for, and who does what.
Architect
Designs the project, produces the drawings and handles the planning application. Also sets the specification and, if you want, oversees the build.
When: almost always, for anything beyond the very simplest work. Cost: often 7 to 15 per cent of the build cost, or fixed fees per stage.
Structural engineer
Calculates the steelwork, beams and foundations, so the building stands up safely.
When: whenever you remove walls, form large openings, or build new. Cost: usually a modest fixed fee.
Quantity surveyor
Prepares detailed costings and helps control the budget through the job.
When: worth it on larger or more complex projects. Cost: a percentage or fixed fee.
Party wall surveyor
Handles the legal process where work affects a shared wall or a neighbour's boundary.
When: extensions and basements close to a boundary. Cost: per notice or agreement.
Planning consultant
Advises on strategy for trickier sites, conservation areas and appeals.
When: sensitive or contested planning situations. Cost: fixed or hourly.
Principal designer and building control
A principal designer coordinates health and safety (a legal requirement on most projects), and building control signs off compliance with the Building Regulations, through the council or an approved inspector.
When: nearly all projects. Cost: modest fees.
Interior and landscape designers
An interior designer shapes layouts, finishes and the feel of the home; a landscape designer does the same for the garden and outdoor spaces.
When: whenever you want a designed result inside or out. Cost: fees or a percentage.
Main contractor (that is us)
Builds the project and coordinates every trade, supplier and consultant, so it all comes together on time and on budget.
When: the one constant on every job.
How it fits together
You rarely need everyone. A simple extension might need an architect, a structural engineer and building control. A new home needs most of the team. The good news is you do not have to work it out alone: we help you understand who is needed, when, and we coordinate them so nothing falls through the cracks.
On many projects we also offer a design-and-build route, where we take on more of the coordination ourselves for a simpler, single point of contact.