Planning an extension is exciting, but it can quickly raise a long list of questions. Do you need an architect? When should you contact a builder? What does a structural engineer do and who deals with planning permission and Building Regulations?
The good news is that you do not need to work all of this out alone. Here is a straightforward guide to the main people involved and when you may need them.
Do you legally need an architect?
In most cases, you are not legally required to use an architect for a home extension. The Architects Registration Board explains that architectural services can be provided by other professionals, although only someone registered with the ARB can legally use the title “architect”.
For a relatively straightforward extension, plans may sometimes be prepared by an architectural technologist, building designer or another suitably experienced professional.
However, an architect can be particularly valuable when:
- The design is complex or unusual
- You want to make the best use of a difficult space
- The property is listed or in a conservation area
- Planning permission may be challenging
- The extension needs to work sensitively with the existing building
- You would like support developing your initial ideas
The right choice depends on the property, the scale of the work and how much design support you need.
What does an architect do?
An architect can help turn your ideas into a practical design. Depending on what you appoint them to do, they may:
- Discuss how you want to use the new space
- Produce concept designs and technical drawings
- Prepare and submit a planning application
- Coordinate information from other consultants
- Help specify materials and finishes
- Answer design questions during construction
Before appointing anyone, make sure you understand exactly what is included in their service.
What does a structural engineer do?
An architect considers the overall design, while a structural engineer focuses on making sure the proposed work can be built safely.
You may need a structural engineer if the extension involves:
- Removing a load-bearing wall
- Installing steel beams
- Altering the roof structure
- Creating large openings for doors or windows
- Assessing foundations or ground conditions
- Supporting part of the existing building
Their calculations and drawings may also be required as part of the Building Regulations process.
Planning permission and Building Regulations are different
This is an area that often causes confusion.
Some extensions can be completed under permitted development rights, meaning a full planning application may not be necessary. However, there are limits and conditions relating to the extension’s height, size, position and design.
The Planning Portal’s extension guidance is a useful starting point, but it is always worth checking the requirements for your individual property.
Building Regulations are separate from planning permission. They cover matters such as:
- Structural safety
- Insulation and energy efficiency
- Fire safety
- Ventilation
- Drainage
- Electrical work
- Access
Most home extensions require Building Regulations approval, even when planning permission is not needed. You can read more in the Government’s Building Regulations approval guidance.
When should you involve your builder?
Ideally, your builder should be involved before every detail has been finalised.
Early input from an experienced construction team can help identify practical issues relating to buildability, access, drainage, materials, timescales and likely costs. It can also prevent a design progressing too far before discovering that an element is difficult or unnecessarily expensive to construct.
At South Devon Construction, we can work alongside your architect, designer, structural engineer and Building Control team. Acting as your Principal Contractor, we coordinate the different trades and manage the day-to-day construction process, giving you one experienced point of contact throughout the build.
You can learn more about our home extension services in South Devon and how we manage larger construction projects.
Who might you need?
For a typical extension, your project team could include:
- Architect or designer: Develops the design and prepares drawings
- Structural engineer: Calculates how structural elements should be safely supported
- Planning consultant: Helps with more complicated planning matters where required
- Building Control: Checks that the work complies with Building Regulations
- Principal Contractor: Coordinates the site, trades, programme, safety and construction work
Not every extension will require every professional on this list. The important thing is identifying what your particular project needs before work begins.
Not sure where to start?
You do not need to arrive with a finished set of plans or know exactly which professionals to contact.
If you are considering an extension, speak to South Devon Construction early. We can discuss what you would like to achieve, review the practical requirements and help you understand the next steps, from initial planning through to completion.
Contact us for a friendly conversation and a free estimate.
info@southdevonconstruction.com
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