FAQs

Yes, we have full professional indemnity insurance.

Philip Thompson has been an Architectural Technologist since 1983, meaning we work with efficiency and effectiveness in mind. It also means we have the expertise to act as lead design members and project manage from beginning to end. For further information visit CIAT’s page ‘What is a Chartered Architectural Technologist?’

Yes, we are a CIAT registered practice, meaning we strive for excellence in all aspects of architecture and how we practice. For more details about CIAT, Architectural Technology and registered practices, visit CIAT’s website.

Yes. We will visit the property or site to discuss your project free of charge. This enables us to see the property/site first hand, tailor our proposals to your requirements and for you to get to know us and how we work. This is followed up with a no obligation fee proposal for the services that you would like us to provide.

Our initial discussion with you is free and after our meeting we can provide a fee proposal outlining our charges. On small projects we endeavour to provide a fixed price fee and you are able to select the range of services or partial service that you require. We’ll also indicate any other fees (local authorities etc) so that you have a good idea of what to budget for.

For larger projects we normally charge a percentage of the building costs. This depends on the extent of the services required but is typically between 6% and 12%. Where the extent of services cannot be easily defined, we will charge on an hourly basis of £50 to £75 per hour plus VAT. We would always provide an estimate of the total cost which can also be capped at an agreed set limit.

We have a list of pre-approved builders and contractors, who we know work to the same high standards as us. However, we are always happy to open up the tender to other contractors.

Some of the contractors we regularly work with include:

X

Yes, we advise on all aspects of planning and can submit the forms on your behalf. We also liaise with Local Authority departments for you.

X

Of course! We specialise in working with listed and historic buildings. We can advise on planning, listed building consent and building regulations throughout the process and design with any constraints in mind, making sure you retain the character of the building by using techniques and design that will not be harmful to your property.

Yes, we advise on all aspects of building regulations and can submit the forms/application to Building Control on your behalf. In fact, we always design within the constraints of building regulations, ensuring there are minimal delays to your application.

Yes, we aim to use the most sustainable and efficient materials that are available within your budget. We can advise on the different materials available to make the building, conversion or extension the most energy efficient possible. For example, we try to use natural, breathable materials where possible and look to incorporate renewable heating with every project.