I know there are many threads on similar topics, but has anyone gone down the route of employing an Architect to do plans, planning application and then get an engineer to do the build specifications, help with reviewing tenders and monitoring the build leading to cert of completion/compliance etc.
Have spoken to 2 architects who charge fixed price for plans/planning and then offer to monitor & sign off for a fixed price based on a number of site visits, but worry about building queries regarding engineering issues (RSJ etc.) and whether this is included in cost or an added extra and then there are those firms who quote a % and cover all aspects including the engineering. To a lesser extens its not financially driven but want the route which provides best value for money, extension likely to cost 150-200K so 12% v's 4/5K fixed is a large difference.
Any opinions/options/experiences required. It is a fairly standard extension, garage conversion, build over this, extend at the back at ground & first floor and internal remodeling work. I have already drawn up design/layout but want validation as to using space best, alternative solutions and then to have the documents to give to the builder to price and build to and make sure it is done correctly and to applicable standards.
Thanks.