Help Needed Regarding Architects

Andrew Paul

Hi,

I've recently bought a property that needs to be renovated. I've spoken to some architects and was wondering if any members on here have advice regarding the following.

The architects explained that the process is broken up into 4 stages: Design, Planning, Tender, Construction.

Has anyone used an architect for steps 1 and 2 of the process and then just managed steps 3 and 4 themselves? For example, step 3 includes creating a health and safety plan, compliance with building regulations, negotiate tender package but I was wondering if your builder could make the health and safety plan etc?

Likewise step 4, involves getting the compliance certificate but again, could the builder not do that?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

TIA,

Andrew

Penn

There are parts of Step 3 that the builder is responsible for, but there are parts that you are responsible for. It's your responsibility to appoint a Project Supervisor for Construction Stage (PSCS - usually the builder) and Project Supervisor for the Design Process (PSDP - usually the architect). So the architect is usually the one best placed to notify you of all your responsibilities, pretty much taking care of all of it on your behalf, and ensuring the builder complies with his responsibilities.

Likewise, Step 4 there are certifications that the builder will have to give for their part of the works, but the final Certificate of Compliance has to come from a suitable professional (registered architect, registered surveyor, chartered engineer).

While there are some builders who might also be or know their own engineer etc who might do all as part of the one package, ultimately that's self-certification. The main benefit of having your own architect is someone to act on your behalf and in your interests, helping to make sure the builder does build everything to regulations, to negotiate any issues that might come up, help keep an eye on costs etc.

AndrewJRenko

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058364856/help-needed-regarding-architects

Would you really trust your builder to sign off on the compliance of their own work?

Suckler

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058364856/help-needed-regarding-architects

I've rarely seen scenarios like this end well. Any potential savings are quickly lost in delays and items that the client hadn't considered to be in their scope/their responsibility stemming from the tender stage being mismanaged.

Mellor

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058364856/help-needed-regarding-architects

It’s possible. Some people who know what they’re doing take over and self build after planning. But tbh, it’s safe to say that if you’re asking, you’re asking you probably dint have the experience.

Cutting out stage 3. Who is going to negotiate the tender package, provide contract documents, produced details and specs?

DOCARCH

If planning to extend the house more than 40 m.sq. then BCAR applies and even with 'opt out' some level of construction drawings have to be submitted with the commencement notice to demonstrate compliance with the building regulations.

Andrew Paul

Thanks for all your help. It's much appreciated.