Do I need an architect, surveyor or structural engineer?

When planning an extension or renovation to your home, you'll need to determine when you need an Architect, a Surveyor and a Structural Engineer.

These three roles can come together to make your home improvement dreams come true, but they all come from a very different section of the building industry and may not actually be compulsory...

The role of an Architect

Often utilised as the lead consultant, or project manager on building projects, Architects approach your remodelling or renovations from an aesthetic point of view. They consider space, light and best function of all aspects of your building. Architects are also useful to help you determine whether you have permitted development rights, or whether you must apply for planning approval. They will help you go through this minefield of a task and even liaise with the local authority on your behalf. Having said that, an Architect is not always necessary and the expense can be avoided if you know which local authority departments to get in touch with. If you plan to make internal home improvements, an Architect may not be needed at all.

What does a Surveyor do?

Surveyors have a varied role, from land Surveyors, to party wall Surveyors. Their area of concern over your building is the value of the land and its proper use. If you plan to embark upon a new build project, Surveyors are a must, but not necessarily needed for a loft conversion unless a Party Wall Award is necessary.

 Why do you need a Structural Engineer?

A Structural Engineer on the other hand, will almost always be of paramount importance. Whether your home improvements are external or internal, if you aspire to appear on Grand Designs with your new build or are simply adding an extension, you will need to ensure structural credibility and demonstrate that to your local authority. In any building project that requires the movement of walls, or other supporting structures you must satisfy the terms of building regulations. Structural Engineers can assist with the processes of obtaining Building Regulations Approval.

General rule of thumb

If there's no building yet, get all three involved, if the building is going outward, get an Architect and a Structural Engineer and if you're staying inside, just get a Structural Engineer!

Contact Gemma Design on 01993 705522 or on info@gemma-design.co.uk

Inspiration for this blog taken from: http://www.gemma-design.co.uk/refurbishment.html & http://www.aleckassociates.co.uk/do-you-need-an-engineer/