subject: Kitchen Extension - Do I Need Architect Plans [print this page] Kitchen Extension - Do I Need Architect Plans
Kitchen Extension - Do I Need Architect Plans
In therory you could possibly avoid the cost for architect plans for your kitchen extension but is it worth it? Read on an find out the advantages of using a professional architect for your kitchen extension.
Initial Considerations To Determine If You Require Professional Architect Plans
The most important initial consideration for any homeowner considering a kitchen extension is whether the build will reqiire planning permission. If the answer is yes and you do require planning permission then you should almost certainly use the services of a professional architect for your kitchen extension.
The main reaons that you should use an architect is that you will need to provide scaled drawings of existing and proposed elevations and layouts. Note that I said scaled as that is a cruical element and they should be accurate.
Should you obtain planning permission for your kitchen extension you will also need technical drawings for the local council building control showing all the tencnical details such as foundations, drainage, walls, roofing, electrcal diagrams and such. Whilst the average homeowner may be well versed in building terminology it is unlikely he or she will have the skills and experience to complete competent architect plans.
Permitted Development For Your Kitchen Extension
The good news is that the majority of kitchen extensions do come under permitted development and whilst you may not require a planning application you will however need some plans for the council building control department and of course you will need some plans for the builders to get accurate costs for you build.
These plans do not require the same level of accuracy required for a planning application but you do need some detail. It is particulary handy if the level of detail on these drawings are used by the builders to price the work and forms part of the build contract.
You might feel that the main consideration here is the cost of the architect plans but you would be wrong. The architect is preparing plans like yours every day and is well aware of current trends, new technologies and is probably best placed on best designs that would work well with your home. Remember, just because you saw a nice extension in a magazine or another house doesn't mean it will work well with your home.
Conclusion
For best results always try and leave it to the professionals for your architect plans. Better to play safe than end up with a poor design that might reflect negatively on you house price when you sell.
You can compare costs for architects plans for a kitchen extension or any other kind of home improvement project at Architects Supermarket. Placing an inquiry only takes a minute or two and local architects will chase you with costs for your project..
