Starting new build, first time.. help

2 years ago

last modified: 2 years ago

We are about to start planning our first new build, demolishing an existing bungalow to build a large 4 bed house. I have been talking to various people for advice mainly architects but now a chartered surveyor. What is the difference? Is using a chartered surveyor as good as an architect. I'm not worried about pretty pictures with images of gardens and cars on the driveway but planning passed and a property that matches what I'm thinking. Help....please....

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Jonathan
2 years ago
Generally speaking a chartered surveyor is used for assessing the condition of an existing building. Since many work as valuers it’s hard to imagine that yours has the technical expertise to prepare detailed enough plans for planners and then further plans to go out to tender for builders quotes. Architects would generally understand local planning idiosyncrasies and be able to navigate the planning process and may well be able to project manage the build later.

However you might decide to use a designer or a concept planner to explore the creative options to come up with a plan. You could use an architectural technician to deliver technical plans and elevations for planning. You might have a builder in mind and not be going out to tender. And you might not need a project manager if your builder is a full service firm or you might hire a project manager.

So architects are not the only route but a chartered surveyor is not the obvious alternative.
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Starting new build, first time.. help

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Jonathan

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