When embarking on a home renovation, many homeowners instinctively think the first step is to hire an architect. While architects bring valuable expertise and creativity to the table, jumping straight into hiring one can sometimes lead to unnecessary expenses and wasted time—especially if your budget doesn’t accommodate the costs or the project’s scope doesn’t require detailed architectural drawings.

Taking a more measured approach can save you significant money and help you avoid common pitfalls.

The true costs of architectural drawings

Architectural services, while essential for certain projects, can be costly. According to RESI, the cost of hiring an architect typically ranges from 5% to 15% of the total project budget. For example, a renovation project with a budget of £100,000 could mean spending anywhere from £5,000 to £15,000 on architectural fees just for the planning stages. If you also hire the architect to manage the project, you might incur an additional 10% to 15% in fees.

But what if hiring an architect isn’t necessary for your specific project?

The problem: unnecessary architectural services

A surprising statistic from the UK’s Planning Portal reveals that only 40% of projects granted planning permission are actually built to the architect’s specifications. This means many homeowners submit planning applications with architectural drawings but either do not proceed with the project as planned or do not proceed at all.

This discrepancy often arises because initial budget estimates are too low—or worse, non-existent. Many architects understandably refrain from providing cost estimates, as this is not their area of expertise. Moreover, with fluctuating material and labour costs, especially since the pandemic, estimating a renovation’s true cost is increasingly challenging.

As a result, once builders provide their quotes, the actual costs often exceed the anticipated budget, sometimes by more than double. This leaves homeowners with approved plans they cannot afford to execute.

With one in five UK homeowners planning a major renovation in 2024, how can you avoid falling into this trap?

A smarter approach: consult a renovation expert first

Before committing to an architect, consider consulting a renovation consultant as your first point of contact. Renovation consultants specialise in assessing the feasibility and costs of your project without the immediate need for architectural drawings. They provide realistic cost estimates and suggest practical design solutions that align with your budget.

Here’s how a renovation consultant can make a difference:

1. Initial cost assessment: A renovation consultant evaluates your project’s scope and provides an initial cost estimate, helping you understand whether your budget aligns with your renovation goals.

2. Project feasibility: They can identify potential issues early on—such as structural concerns or planning permission hurdles—and suggest cost-effective solutions.

3. Scope clarification: By helping you clearly define your renovation objectives, a consultant can prevent your project from becoming unnecessarily complex or expensive.

4. Connecting with tradespeople: Consultants often have a network of trusted builders and tradespeople, ensuring you receive competitive quotes and quality workmanship.

What If you’ve already hired an architect?

If you’ve already engaged an architect and obtained planning permission but now face the reality that the project exceeds your budget, don’t despair. A renovation consultant can still offer valuable assistance by reviewing and adjusting the plans to fit your financial constraints. They can work with the existing architectural drawings to identify areas where costs can be reduced without compromising your overall vision.

Key takeaways

1. Avoid unnecessary fees:

Before hiring an architect, consider whether your project truly requires architectural drawings or if a renovation consultant can provide the guidance you need.

2. Realistic budgeting:

Understand that initial architectural budgets often underestimate actual costs. A renovation consultant can offer more accurate cost assessments based on current market rates and practical experience.

3. Flexible solutions:

Even if you’ve already invested in architectural plans, a renovation consultant can help you adapt these plans to fit within your budget.

While architects play a crucial role in complex projects, they aren’t always the first step you should take in a home renovation. By exploring alternative approaches, such as consulting a renovation expert first, you can avoid unnecessary expenses and ensure your project stays on track from the very beginning. And if you’ve already engaged an architect but find the plans exceed your budget, remember that a renovation consultant can help guide your project back within realistic financial boundaries.