Architetcs´ Fees
Architects' Fees, How much and what to expect
There is frequently a great deal of mystery surrounding how different architects' services are priced. What is included and what is not, and what additional services may the client need to hire elsewhere (other consultants who may be required to complete the job). The reality is we architects are guilty of failing to clearly explain the value we add and how this value breaks down into the different services and fees we charge. This is partially due to the fact that the value we add is a mix of related benefits.
What to expect regarding Architect's Fees
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to what you can expect to pay for our architectural and design services.Depending on the project and its scope, the Architects Fees will vary.
It also depends on whether or not we handle all phases of the design process (from concept through construction) or just one phase.
As a rule of thumb, A full Architects Service (all RIBA Stages) would cost for projects that involve structural work, extensions, or new builds, percentage of construction cost (ballpark) :
- Construction cost up to 150K: 12%- 15%
- Construction cost between 150K and 250K: 10-12%
- Construction cost between 250K and 500K: 8-10%
- Construction cost between 500K to 1M: 8%
- Greater than 1M: 4-8%
Then, within this total amount, the breakdown figures for the different stages and services during the process would be,
- Feasibility Studies concept and Planning (RIBA Stages 0-3) 30% of overall Architect's Fees
- Building Regulations and Construction Drawings (RIBA Stage 4)- 40% of overall Architect's Fees
- Construction, site visits, contract administration, handover (RIBA Stages 5-7) 30% of overall Architect's Fees
How can these Architects' fees vary up or down
The size of the project, location, scope of work and complexity all play a role in determining how much we will charge you for our services.
Here are a few of the most important factors:
-Scope of service:
Often, Private domestic clients need a complete RIBA Stages package; perhaps, eventually, if the project is small (below 150-200K construction cost ) and not holding too much complexity, RIBA stages 5-7, when construction takes place, can be withdrawn from the scope of services, also, small and medium property developers, tend to hire more specific ( pick and chose) stages, typically Stages 0-3 Planning and concept design, and quite often stage 4 ( Building Regulations and Construction Drawings), but rarely stage 5-7.
-Consultants:
Several consultants are almost always necessary in every project, such as a structural engineer, a party wall surveyor, and a building control body. However, additional consultants may be required depending on a variety of conditions, to mention a few: a planning consultant, an SAP Energy Assessor, a tree surveyor, or a highways consultant
-Intervention Type:
It could be a new build project or simply a refurbishment, but it could involve extensions and significant structural alterations, or sometimes a deeper and more detailed design is required, which includes interior design, lighting design, landscaping, etc. In essence, each project is unique and necessitates unique input from us as Architects and Interior designers.
-Technical Complexity:
From a non-point professional's of view, it is frequently difficult to assess. Structural concerns in the current building, soil issues, trees and public sewers close or under, neighbours, party walls, there is a long list of things/situations that are not easily visible/evident, that might add complexity, time, and thus additional fees to a project.
-Client :
A private individual or property developer. Private domestic clients often require a greater scope of services, whereas property developers already have a team in place and industry experience .
-Additional work not agreed to in the contract with the Architect is also known as variations:
A detailed breakdown of services mitigates the use of variations later down the line; worth discussing with your Architect potential contingency in advance; that means having a clear idea of what is included in the contract and what could happen that would require the need for more services, and also how likely is this to happen, keep in mind variation. Finally, keep in mind that variations are typically charged between £70-140 per hour at an hourly rate.