Why fixed fees matter
Percentage fees, often 8–15% of the build cost, mean the total isn't known until the build is priced. We charge a fixed fee for each stage, agreed in writing before work begins.
- You know the cost before you commit to each stage.
- Clear terms. Our written fee proposal sets out the agreed services, stages, assumptions, exclusions and the circumstances in which additional fees may arise. The signed appointment sets the precise scope.
- Stage by stage. You agree each stage before it starts and can pause after any stage, subject to the terms of your appointment.
See our fee guide for worked examples.
The eight stages
| Stage | In plain language |
|---|---|
| 01 Project brief | Understanding how you live. Conversations and site visits produce a written brief setting out scope, priorities and budget. |
| 02 Concept & schematic design | Where ideas take shape. Site analysis and concepts in sketches and 3D, until a direction is agreed. |
| 03 Cost review & budget testing | Testing the design against your budget with builders early, while changes are still quick. |
| 04 Planning application | Preparing the application, pre-application discussions and managing it to a decision. The council decides it. |
| 05 Detailed design | The architectural design developed in detail and coordinated with your engineer and other consultants. |
| 06 Building Warrant application | The application, Building Standards queries and certifiers, managed to a decision. |
| 07 Construction documentation | The tender package, builder selection and the building contract. |
| 08 Construction-stage support | Where appointed: design queries, review of relevant information and agreed site visits. Any contract administration is defined separately. |
The first conversation is free
A conversation about your project, with no preparation needed. Bring your plot details, your ideas and an honest budget. Call 01786 388773.
Questions
Why isn't the whole fee quoted up front?
Later stages depend on decisions made earlier, such as the complexity agreed at schematic design. Fixing each fee before the stage starts gives certainty without guessing.
Can I stop after any stage?
Yes. You can decide whether to appoint further stages, subject to the signed appointment and any agreed commitments in writing.
General guidance for Scotland, not legal, tax, financial or planning advice for your project. Rules change, so check current official guidance and take advice specific to your site before acting.
