Engaging an architect? Useful even when renovating!

What exactly do architects do?

Hire a professional architect to build or renovate. He will use his knowledge to bring your building plans to life within a legal framework. You can expect a variety of services from them, but as a partner in a construction project, this person also has many specific responsibilities.

 

Duties of an architect

Essentially, the architect ensures that the building plan is included in the legal framework and executed according to the applicable legal standards. These tasks can be divided into several categories:

• new construction
• renovation
• regularisations
• zoning changes
• bathroom design

 

Responsibility of the architect

An architect must ensure that your renovation or new construction is done according to legal standards. Safety and stability must already be taken into account during construction. He can be held liable if a mistake is made. By default, architects can be held for mistakes up to 10 years after completion of the construction work. Therefore, qualified architects will do everything possible to avoid this. He or she will do everything possible to make your construction a success.

 

Why does one need an architect?

For both new construction and extension/renovation, it is advised to consult an architect. Building designs should comply with all laws in force where construction or renovation is taking place.

 

Architect for renovations

Renovations often involve extensive renovation work. Think of breaking through walls, building a veranda or garage. As with any new building, architects draw plans and carry out technical calculations. And again, they apply for the necessary permits.

 

What else can I contact the architect for?

The architect's job is not yet complete. There are still many areas where structural engineers can help you. For instance, settling a building violation. Better yet, a good architect helps prevent such violations. For instance, a professional architect will apply for a permit if you want to split or merge several residential units. Also consider breaking through walls and working in basements and foundations.

Or do you want to extend your veranda, carport, garage etc or build a garden or terrace wall, building or remodelling balconies, changing door or window openings also require planning permission. Or are you installing a new bathroom? You can also hire a professional architect for this. Another job is renovating buildings. For example, do you want to transform your private home into an office, restaurant or café? Or do you want to establish a practice for a self-employed profession, a home service or an office for industry, then you will most likely need to apply for a permit. Architects can help with that too.

 

How to find information about architects?

If you know what style you want with your project, seek advice from friends and family first. They can inform you about their good and bad experiences with various architects in the past.In magazines, newspapers and trade magazines, you will find information about the specifics of the firm and good or bad ideas about how it works. Bad criticism is also posted. A full list of people registered with the Belgian Institute of Architects can be found on the website www.architect.be.

Find the right architect for your renovation project based on several criteria (specialty, region, language, connection to the community, etc.). Also, viewing the portfolio of different architects makes it easy to choose the one that best suits your needs. It is also possible to visit one of the houses built or renovated by a particular architect.

 

Other considerations when choosing the right architect

It is very important that the architect you choose is familiar with the style of building or renovating your home. Of course, it would not be a good idea to choose an architect who prefers clean, minimalist lines while you prefer a more rustic style. Even if some architects or architectural firms claim to have experience with different architectural styles, it is a good idea to consult an expert in a particular field.

The professional taste of architects also varies greatly from person to person. Some people are more attracted to new buildings than renovating old ones. Some architects specialise in using ecological materials, while others specialise in low-cost constructions.

Finally, there is another factor. The area where the architectural firm is located and the area where the architects work. Of course, it is much easier to solve problems on site if the architect can be on site quickly and easily.