Services

Normal architectural services

 
Normal services include the following stages and encompass most building projects from inception to completion
 
Stage 1 Inception
This stage includes advising you of the general requirements for building projects including your obligations under planning, building control and health and safety legislation.

Stage 2 Survey
This stage involves the preparation of a measured survey of your property and this may be carried out by us or by a land surveyor if appropriate.

Stage 3 Sketch Design
Following receipt of your brief for the project which should include timescale, your budget and a schedule of accommodation, we will prepare a sketch proposal in response to your brief. This will be discussed with you for further development.

Stage 4 Developed Design
At this stage it is appropriate to involve other members of the design team, and to have their input in order to establish project costs.

Stage 5 Planning application
Having agreed the developed design and budget, we will arrange a pre planning consultation with the planning authority if it is considered appropriate in advance of making a planning application.

Stage 6 Building Regulations
It is usual to wait until the planning permission is granted before commencing this stage as conditions of a planning permission may alter the scope of the project and to carry out this stage in advance risks undertaking abortive work. A Fire Safety Certificate and Disability Access Certificate is applied for at the end of tis stage.

Stage 7 Tender documents
This stage involves the preparation of detailed drawings for the construction of your project and the preparation of a bill of quantities by the quantity surveyor for the selected contractors to price. The architect will make recommendations to you as to appropriate contractors suitable for your project and you should prepare your own list of preferences for inclusion in the selected tender list.

Stage 8 Contract Administration
This is the construction stage of the project, you will have entered into a building contract with the chosen building contractor and as architects we will administer the terms of the contract, making site inspections, attending and chairing site meetings, checking the quality of work and making recommendations for payment in accordance with the contract, and finally preparing a snag list at the end of the project, in addition to preparing opinions on compliance with planning permission and building regulations.
 
House inspections and Reports
Prior to purchasing property you should have it inspect for general condition and to identify any defects or risks which may not be apparent. These reports involve a visual inspection of all parts of the property which is assessed for dampness, structural and defects in the services.
 
BER Certificates
Building Energy Rating certificates are required for all property which is sold or rented. They assess the energy performance of the property from A1 to G. They include a report which gives guidance as to what areas can be improved and their relative cost and impact. They are valid for 10 years but may be updated at any time, particularly if you have improved the energy performance of your property. We can undertake domestic Building Energy Ratings for your dwelling.
 
Opinions on Compliance with Planning Permission or Exemption from Planning Control
When you purchase your property you will receive these certificates. If you make any changes to the property requiring a planning application you will require a certificate to state that the work has been carried out in accordance with the permissions granted. These certificates are issued as part of the normal service. If you have undertaken alterations which are exempt from making a planning application you will need an opinion on exemption from planning control.
 
Health and Safety ( project supervisor design stage)
As a client you will need to appoint a project supervisor for the design and construction stages of your project. We can provide project supervisor design process services for your project. More detailed information on your requirements can be found on the Health and Safety Authority website.
 
Expert Witness Reports
Whether involved in an accident or preparing a claim in respect of defective construction or products we can act for you in collaboration with your legal representatives to prepare reports and to give evidence in any court case which may arise.
 
Construction Cost Estimation
For all types of construction we can prepare estimates for cost of construction, repairs or renewals, whether as part of new build, refurbishment or for insurance purposes.
 
Heritage and conservation architecture
We have undertaken numerous heritage projects including alterations and extensions to protected structures, preparation of reports and heritage studies for local authorities and making grant applications for heritage works.
 
Concept Design - EDS
John Hodgins is a founding partner of EDS Partnership which provides international concept design services. Our work can be found at Corduff Oman.
 
Measured Surveys and Mapping
If you require mapping of your property for land registry purposes, a land survey of your property, or a measured survey of your building for record purposes (often relevant for insurances purposes of protected structures)
 
Project Management
If you are unsure as to how to interface with your architect or need guidance for your construction project, we can provide project management services to guide you through the procedures involved in you building project and can act as the client- design team interface.

Sample Projects