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Measured survey, plans, elevations and sections — to planning standard, or full building-regs pack.
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Hiring a architectural services, without the regret.
Four moves that separate a smooth job from a nightmare.
Wrong service level
Some projects need RIBA architect. Others fine with technician.
Planning rejection
Cheap drawings non-compliant. Quality architect understands planning policy.
Multiple revisions
Iteration costs. Get fee structure clarified.
Construction drawings missing
Builder needs detail. Worth additional fee for clarity.
Costs & timeline
Know what it costs. Know when it ends.
Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.
Cost range
By job type
Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Source: NMT quotes
Single-storey rear extensionStandard size
£1.5k–£4.5k
Two-storey side extensionMore complex
£2.5k–£6.5k
Loft conversion drawingsStructural calcs needed
£2k–£5k
Full new-build houseMajor design project
£5k–£20k
Listed building applicationSPAB experience
£2.5k–£10k
Planning drawings onlyWithout Building Regs
£1k–£3.5k
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
Infographic · VideoThe Architectural Services briefing.
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Architectural Services quick-view
Video guide
Architectural Services explained
Architectural drawings are essential for planning and Building Regs applications. RIBA-qualified or architectural technician. Expect to pay £1,500–£15,000 for UK architectural drawings.
What Does the Work Involve?
Architect/technician surveys property. Designs scheme to brief. Produces drawings: existing plans, proposed plans, elevations, sections, site plan. Submits for planning permission. Building Regs drawings. Construction drawings if needed. Multiple iterations.
Typical Costs
| Item | Low (£) | High (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-storey rear extension | 1,500 | 4,500 | Standard size |
| Two-storey side extension | 2,500 | 6,500 | More complex |
| Loft conversion drawings | 2,000 | 5,000 | Structural calcs needed |
| Full new-build house | 5,000 | 20,000+ | Major design project |
| Listed building application | 2,500 | 10,000 | SPAB experience |
| Planning drawings only | 1,000 | 3,500 | Without Building Regs |
| Construction drawings | 1,500 | 5,000 | For builder |
| Architectural technician (cheaper) | 800 | 2,500 | Standard projects |
How Long Does It Take?
Survey + design: 2-4 weeks. Planning application: 8 weeks. Building Regs: 5 weeks. Total: 12-20 weeks.
DIY or Professional?
Architect or architectural technician. RIBA-qualified for premium.
Choosing the Right Tradesperson
RIBA-qualified architect: premium. CIAT-qualified architectural technician: standard. Local with previous work.
UK Regulations
Planning permission for some projects. Building Regs notification for most. Listed buildings always need consent.
Common Problems
- Wrong service level: Some projects need RIBA architect. Others fine with technician.
- Planning rejection: Cheap drawings non-compliant. Quality architect understands planning policy.
- Multiple revisions: Iteration costs. Get fee structure clarified.
- Construction drawings missing: Builder needs detail. Worth additional fee for clarity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Architect or architectural technician?
Architect: full RIBA qualification, premium. Architectural technician: CIAT-qualified, design and drawings, no full architectural license. Most extensions use technician.
Cost as % of build?
Drawings: 5-12% of build cost. £200,000 extension: £10,000-£24,000 design fees.
RIBA-qualified essential?
For listed buildings: yes. Complex modern design: yes. Standard extension: technician sufficient.
Planning vs Building Regs drawings?
Planning: external appearance, scale, position. Building Regs: technical compliance. Both usually needed.
How long do drawings take?
Survey + design: 2-4 weeks. Submission preparation: 1 week. Total preparation 3-5 weeks before approval phase.
Revisions included in fee?
Usually 1-2 included. Major changes additional fee. Get clear scope upfront.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
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