If you’re planning to extend your home, you may be wondering whether you need an architect. The answer in short is that it depends on various factors such as the size of the extension, the complexity of the design, and the building regulations in your area. Below we’ve compiled everything you need to know about whether your extension requires an architect or not.
What are Architect Drawings?
To begin we need to understand what architects do. Architectural drawings are detailed plans and designs that show how a building or structure will be constructed. They are typically created by architects or architectural designers and include detailed measurements, elevations, and sections of the building. Architect drawings can be used to help obtain planning permission from local authorities, as they provide a clear and comprehensive view of the proposed building. They can also be used to communicate design concepts to contractors, builders, and engineers during construction.
What to consider
Planning Permission
If your extension is going to be larger than a certain size, you’ll need to get planning permission from your local authority. One of the requirements for getting planning permission is to submit detailed plans of the proposed extension. These plans must be prepared by an architect or another qualified professional, and they need to show exactly how the extension will look and how it will fit into the surrounding environment. This makes the plans more likely to be accepted than if you were to submit plans without their input as they have the experience to navigate between your designs and compliance with local authorities.
Building Regulations
Even if you don’t need planning permission for your extension, you’ll still need to comply with building regulations. These regulations are designed to ensure that all building work meets certain minimum standards for safety and quality. To comply with building regulations, you’ll need to have detailed plans drawn up by an architect or another qualified professional. These plans will need to show exactly how the extension will be constructed, including details such as the materials that will be used and how the structure will be supported. Extensions that do not meet building regulations can be ordered to be taken down if you are unable to produce the documentation certifying approval for the extension.
Structural Considerations
Building an extension is a major undertaking, and it’s important to make sure that the new structure is structurally sound. This is another area where an architect can help. An architect will be able to design the extension in such a way that it’s safe and compliant, and they’ll be able to advise on things like the type of foundation that’s needed and how the roof should be supported. On the other hand, an experienced construction company such as ourselves in West Yorkshire have the expertise to assist with this. We also work with a number of trusted architects who we’ve completed numerous project with in the past.
Design and Aesthetics
An architect can help you to design an extension that not only meets your practical needs but also looks great. An architect will be able to take into account factors such as the style of your existing property, the local environment, and your personal preferences, to create a design that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
So, can I extend my home without an architect?
In some instances, yes. Under permitted development, you can extend your home usually without planning permission. In this case, you would only need to ensure that your extension complies with guidelines on size, structural safety and aesthetics in national parks or areas of outstanding natural beauty.
I’m still not sure – how can I find out if I need an architect?
There are a couple of options and we can understand your hesitation as architectural fees can range between anywhere between 1-20% of the final construction budget total. If in doubt, you can speak to your local planning authority. You can find your local council’s planning authority here. Alternatively, you can also speak to us directly, as we take the headache away from you and will advise of any issues surrounding your design, planning permission or building regulations, and instruct an architect to work alongside us if the project dictates this is necessary.
If you have any questions over whether you need an architect or to discuss an extension for your home you can get in touch with us today on 01535 653530 or fill out our online contact form.