When planning property renovations, determining whether to hire an architect is crucial. Legally, an architect is required for projects that increase a property’s area beyond 150m2. While minor modifications may not necessitate their services, engaging an architect can enhance your project’s quality. They provide valuable expertise, helping you realize your vision, albeit at a cost typically ranging from 10 to 15% of the total project budget. Understanding these regulations can ensure compliance and benefit your renovation process.
Do You Need an Architect for Your Property Renovation?
If you’re gearing up for renovations on your property, you might be pondering whether hiring an architect is necessary. In certain situations, it’s a requirement, but their expertise can also offer significant benefits. Let’s dive into the details.
When it comes to purchasing a property for renovation or planning an extension on your existing home, a key question arises: should I engage an architect for my project?
So, what does the legislation state? The Urban Planning Code outlines the obligation to hire an architect based on the nature of the work. Specifically, Article 431-2 mandates that “applicants for a building permit must enlist an architect for projects involving existing structures that increase either the floor area or the footprint of the property beyond 150m2.”
Understanding the Requirement Based on Property Area
Moreover, Article L431-1 clarifies that “individuals intending to build or modify minor constructions for personal use are not obligated to hire an architect. For constructions executed by individuals, excluding agricultural structures, the maximum floor area stipulated by this regulation cannot surpass 150 square meters.
In summary, for new constructions, hiring an architect is compulsory if the property exceeds 150m2. However, for extensions to an existing building, the total area is the key factor. For instance, if you already own a house measuring 130m2 and wish to add an outbuilding exceeding 20m2, your total will exceed 150m2 post-renovation, thus requiring you to hire an architect.
When Expanding Your Home: Common Mistakes to Avoid
Aside from the legal requirement to hire an architect, any renovation work is still subject to the Urban Planning Code. According to the regulations, individuals wishing to construct an area less than 5m2 generally do not need to take any formal steps, barring special circumstances (like being in a designated protected zone). However, for new constructions between 5m2 and 20m2, a prior declaration of work is necessary. For projects exceeding this size, a building permit is required. Yet, hiring an architect isn’t mandated unless you exceed the 150m2 threshold mentioned earlier.
Beyond the legal requirements, engaging an architect can be incredibly advantageous, even if it isn’t obligatory. “An architect is a professional with a duty to advise,” explains David Rodrigues, legal manager at CLCV. Their expertise can help you craft a distinctive home that reflects your vision. If you’re considering a wooden house, for example, an architect can connect you with a network of professionals to help bring your dream project to life.
Keep in mind that hiring an architect involves expenses. As stated on Bam Archi, “the architect’s fee is typically calculated based on the scope of the work: the more extensive the project, the higher the fee. For a comprehensive mission, this rate typically ranges from 10 to 15% of the amount, excluding taxes, of the total project cost.”