If you decide to use a Design & Construct Builder, in addition to your plans they provide permits, soil report, engineering as well as construction in their pricing. While their designs are not necessarily architecturally creative, their prices generally end up being the lowest. You may choose to use an architect or designer/draftsperson to draw up plans for builders to quote on. If you want something creative or different from the majority of extensions in your street, this option may be for you. However the final cost is likely to be greater than a Design & Construct Builder. You may also end up with a wonderful set of plans that cannot be realised without exceeding your budget. Some builders are prepared to comment on your house plans as they’re being drawn. They are in a good position to make suggestions regarding design and materials to keep your costs down or at least to give you costs before your plans are finished. When you are seeking quotes on your plans, they may be able to submit a very tight price due to their familiarity with them.
As a rough guide, the following fees may be charged. Based on a home extension contract costing $150k requiring a planning permit, you will typically be looking at:
- Architect: $9,000 - $15,000
- Draftsperson: $3,200 - $6,500
- Land Surveyor: $800 - $1,850 – if required
- Geotechnical engineer (soil reports): $300 - $550
- Private Town Planner: $1,000 - $10,000
- Structural Engineer: $750 - $1,400
- Building Surveyor: $1,500 - $2,250
Your costs will also be influenced by the following factors:
Choice of materials, fittings & fixtures;
- seasonal fluctuations;
- delays – town planning, weather;
- builder’s profit margin
- how much you can do yourself – eg painting
- soft landscaping
- abnormal ground conditions requiring extra concrete poured or site costs
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