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Architects don’t just design buildings. They are also familiar
with all aspects of building construction; the local planning
system; building regulations; the various laws governing new
building work; dealing with contractors and subcontractors
to get the quality of work and service desired at a fair price;
coping with any problems or difficulties that may arise during
the course of work on site; and tying things up at the end
of a project such as the final finances and sorting out any
small problems with the building.
The
Royal Institute of British Architects publishes comprehensive
lists of the dozens of services available from architects,
but most clients employ architects to:
-
advise on the feasibility of their scheme
-
prepare sketch designs
- liaise
with the planners and handle applications for planning consent
(and listed building or conservation area consent if required)
-
obtain consent under the building regulations (another essential,
again involving the local authority)
-
produce all the drawings, specifications and schedules of
work necessary for a builder to be able to do the job properly
and as desired
- handle
going to tender and analysing the results
- set
in place a suitable contract with the chosen builder
-
administer that contract as the builder does the work visiting
the site to inspect the progress and quality of the work
- oversee
the handing over of the building to its owner and sorting
out any problems that arise subsequently
Not
everyone needs, or wants, the full service. Many would only
like to get planning permission. Some wish to build their
own homes themselves, and what is called ‘the production information’
is tailored to their needs. Usually, the best way to brief
an architect is define your problem, rather than saying what
you think you need.
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