£500–£2,000 for surveys, £2,000–£8,000+ for full architectural design and planning
Pricing varies by property type, service requirements, and location. Always compare at least 3 like-for-like quotes before appointing.
Typical timeline: 2–4 weeks for surveys, 6–12 weeks for full design and planning submission, 8–12 weeks for planning decisions
Verify professional accreditation (ARB/RIBA for architects, RICS for surveyors, ICE for engineers)
Check their experience with your property type and local planning authority
Ask about their track record with planning applications in your area
Confirm they carry professional indemnity insurance
Review their portfolio for projects similar in scale and style to yours
Emergency callouts, evening/weekend visits, and urgent parts sourcing usually increase rates. If your job is non-urgent, planning ahead and combining smaller tasks into one visit often reduces total spend.
Explore local cost context before requesting quotes.
You do not legally need an architect for most home extensions, but one can add significant value — better design, smoother planning applications, and avoiding costly mistakes. For listed buildings or complex projects, professional design advice is strongly recommended.
An architect is ARB-registered and holds a protected title requiring 7+ years of training. An architectural designer may be equally skilled but without ARB registration. Both can produce drawings and submit planning applications.
You need a structural engineer whenever you are removing or altering load-bearing walls, adding a loft conversion, building an extension, or addressing subsidence. Building control will require structural calculations for these works.
A party wall agreement is required under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 when you carry out certain work near or on a shared wall with a neighbour. A party wall surveyor manages the notice process and resolves any disputes.
Compare nearby categories before choosing your final quote shortlist.