Percentage fees or fixed fees
| Percentage of build cost | Fixed fee per stage | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | A percentage, often 8–15%, of the final build cost | A fixed price for each stage, agreed in advance |
| When you know the total | Only once the build is priced | Before work starts on each stage |
| If build costs rise | The fee rises with them | The fee stays the same |
| If the scope grows | The fee may increase | Only if you instruct extra work |
Indicative figures
For a hypothetical £480,000 construction budget, a fee calculated at 10% would be £48,000, although percentage-based appointments differ in scope and calculation. ED Design agrees fixed fees for each appointed stage in writing. Request a project-specific proposal setting out what is included, which consultants are separately appointed and whether construction-stage support is required.
Our fee guide shows full worked examples.
Other costs to budget for
| Item | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Structural engineer | £3,000–£8,000 |
| Energy assessment | £500–£1,500 |
| Topographic survey | £500–£1,500 |
| Specialist reports for planning | £1,000–£5,000 |
| Planning application fee | Set nationally; check the current fee |
| Building Warrant fee | Based on the value of works |
Questions to ask at a first meeting
- Is the fee fixed for each stage, or a percentage of the build cost?
- What exactly is included at each stage?
- How are consultants and other third-party fees handled?
- What happens if planning is refused?
- Can I stop after any stage without committing to the rest?
Questions
How much does it cost to design a self-build house in Scotland?
ED Design prices each appointed stage individually. Your written fee proposal sets out the agreed services, assumptions and exclusions; structural engineering, surveys, statutory fees and construction-stage services may be separate. Some practices use percentage-based fees; the percentage and scope vary by appointment.
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.
