The architect’s role will vary depending on how much you want them to do (ranging from Stage 0 to 7 of the RIBA Plan of Work).

If they are involved from concept through to technical delivery, the architect can help you achieve your vision, draw up the brief, consult with stakeholders, guide you through the process, maximise space, solve problems, secure planning consent, appoint and lead the project team and also work with the contractor to deliver the scheme on site.

Generally architects begin to offer a full service for projects with a budget of £30,000 or more, but for a smaller fee an architect can help you figure out how to get the best out of your project, regardless of size and whether they are needed later on.

Most architects offer one-off consultations and these can be incredibly useful. They will give you guidance on all aspects of your project from design and cost through to planning and construction. In a short space of time you can gain an enormous amount of valuable information which will help you realise your project.

If you need planning permission it is likely that you will need an architect.

Choosing an accredited RIBA Chartered Practice will give you peace of mind. They comply with strict criteria covering insurance, health and safety and quality management systems.

They range from one-person offices to large, multinational firms operating worldwide - so you'll be able to find the right match.

The ultimate success of your project depends on the quality of your brief, i.e. your ability to describe to your architect clearly the requirements and functions of your building, and proposed methods of operation and management. It is wise to ask your architect to assist you in preparing a final brief. Your architect will need to know:

    Your aims

    Your budget

    Your design style: are you looking for a design in keeping with the existing building? Do you want a contemporary or high-tech design? Are you concerned about having a sustainable or ecological design?

    Your reasons for embarking on this building project: what activities are intended for it?

    Your authority: who will be making the decisions about the designs, costs and day-to-day matters when the project is underway?

    Your overall expectations: what do you hope to achieve by this project - a more comfortable place for you to live in?

At the initial meetings, your architect will listen carefully to your intentions and create a brief, addressing not only design aesthetics, but also the function of the building. Timings and budgets for your project will be defined at an early stage and only after you have approved initial sketches will the ideas be developed further.

The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM 2015) are the regulations for managing the health, safety and welfare of construction projects. The regulations changed in April 2015 and apply to both domestic and commercial clients.

    The HSE provides guidance for domestic clients

    The CITB provides guidance for commercial clients

    Regular construction clients can contact the Construction Client Group of Constructing Excellence for more information

If you're unsure of whether you need planning permission, the Government's Planning Portal has an interactive guide giving broad advice on the subject for a range of common domestic works.

http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/permission/