Quote:
Originally Posted by nikanone
Would it be better to have an architect advice us and take control of the project or get a builder in to give quotes on the whole project? I can’t decide properly. Who is the best person to advice on building an extension to a property?
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Architects don't do that. They draw the plans and put their 'seal' on those plans. Local government (if applicable) then puts their approval on them and issues a building permit.
But who is ultimately responsible? Primary contractor. If you choose to be that, then you are responsible for what every sub-contractor does. Or you hire a builder who does all that for you and demands payment up front.
Some have hired a contractor as a sub AND as an advisor for the project. It is one way to better learn the building business - to suffer the heartaches and reap the joy of success from getting it done. Both are essential for learning.
So, do you want to learn or just add an addition? Notice what is definitely not an option here - cutting costs.
Now, do you know what you want or do you need advise on how best to make that addition look? Many drew up the plans, took them to an architect, who redrew the plans, and charged much money for the architects seal. Others asked the architect (and paid more) for ideas on architectural beauty and making the structure more practical. Those are also what an architect can provide. You must decide who will be the primary contractor - who gets paid most and takes full responsibility for failures and problems.
Meanwhile, no matter what you decide, you are still responsible for all financing.