fee structure
We aim to be competitive for every Client, regardless of the project. Our fees are bespoke for each project depending on the complexity, and time involved. This is because we understand that no two proposals are the same. Each property will have their own challenges and opportunities and it is our responsibility to price our services accordingly.
Transparency
Our fee structure is open and transparent, and will be set out as per the stages of the RIBA Plan of Work stages. We will agree fees in advance of completing any design work. All fees will include VAT etc where applicable.
Disbursements will be charged to you at the cost of the invoice received. We do not charge a mark up on disbursements but may charge for the time to acquire these. For example any Planning Application fee will be payable by the Client.
how do we calculate our fees?
Many Architects still use % based fee scales. Traditionally for residential design this will be between 8-10%. There will also likely be a premium rate of around 12% for Listed Buildings and the like. You will be pleased to know that our fees are often much lower than this.
We do not agree with % based fees as they can often lead to ‘Top up fees’. To explain, an Architect may charge 3% up to planning permission based on an estimate construction cost of £100k, so you pay £3000. You then pay another 4% up to Building Regulations, so you pay another £4000.
When you then put the project out to tender the construction cost comes in at £150k. Suddenly you may be liable for the difference to make the fee up to 7% on £150k, resulting in a top up fee of £3500 extra for work that is already completed.
We do not think that this is fair. This is why we calculate all of our fees based on the number of hours anticipated. All of our fees are also then fixed for a period of 3 months.
To learn more about the alternative methods to price work, why not read our blog by clicking the link below.
Appointment
Our appointment with a Client can be based on the RIBA Professional Services Contracts to give you peace of mind if you wish, or by way of a letter of Appointment.
Specialist consultants
It is often necessary to appoint additional consultants to undertake specialist elements of the design.
We have a strong network of proven consultants, and can suggest third parties such as Planning Consultants, Structural Engineers etc, however we would stress that their appointment must be directly with the Client.
Our fees are always exclusive of fees for other consultants.
Would you like to work with us?
If you have a project of your own that you would like to discuss with us in more detail, or if you would like to appoint us as your Architect, then please Contact Us directly, or book a Free Consultation with us.
We look forward to working with you.