Christchurch architects provide professional services to those building or renovating in Christchurch or the surrounding area. There can be a number of factors to consider when selecting an architect. Christchurchnz.info provides information on architects in Christchurch for you to select the architect that suits your needs. 

You can expect architect services fees offered by different architects in Christchurch to range depending on the services they provide and what services are included in the cost. Disbursements or additional expenses that are required may be additional to the initial fee, this is normally discussed before agreeing to pay for their architectural and project management services. Your architect may need to print documents or incur travel expenses as a result of working on your project, these costs are often passed on the client as additional costs. 

Fee structures can vary depending on the preference of the architect and what fee structure fits you some examples of fee structures include lump sum payments (where the fee is set and agreed on at the beginning). A percentage fee is a percentage of the project budget which can be large or small depending on how big the project is. Or for smaller projects a charge for the time spent of the project may be more appropriate.  

Many architects offer an initial discussion about the project for no charge. This initial meeting will include a discussion about what you would like to achieve and in particular why you want to build, any ideas you have in mine for the project, and what your expectations are regarding how the design and construction phases will flow. After this initial meeting the architect is then able to draw up a brief and discuss what fees are involved. If the project is of a complex nature or requiring services outside of the architects scope consultants will be needed and can add to the cost. A consultant may be needed to help with resource consent negotiations among other consents and surveys.  

Once the budget and brief have been agreed the architect will then provide a design. This is then discussed with the client and adjustments made accordingly until both the architect and client are happy with the final design. 

A contract should be signed  before work starts on the building site, this is between the client and contractor. The construction phase of the project is often the most complicated so it is important to still have your architect at this stage. This will make sure the builder is following the plans and specifications provided from all the design phases. 

After all the meetings, designs, consultations and negotiations your project will come to life with the help of your contracted builders and other trade experts in Christchurch such as electricians and plumbers. For decorating, painting and other services to help complete your project in Christchurch you can find all the professional services you need on Christchurchnz.info.