Before applying for council approval of development, we are obligated to hire consultants inspecting the property and issuing reports regarding any issue found. The report will be submitted in conjunction with our design proposal to the council, so they can be cross-reference of how our proposal addresses any issue mentioned.
For someone who has always been living in apartment building, I am in a foreign territory. For start, it is required to appoint town planner, building and land surveyor. They provide a set of planning scheme that will tell us what we are allowed (or not allowed) to rebuild.
Next, the site needs inspection from arborist and stormwater engineer. If any issue is found, we will then need the structural engineer and geo-technical engineer to examine. The site will also need heritage consultant, given the heritage nature of the location.
With the tasks ahead and weighting on the potential issue arises, I decide to seek for the service of architect.
I read that between 3-7% of Australian houses built each year are designed by architects. I am sure there are good reasons behind their fee structure, when they have many compliance to address and quality standard to meet.
Disclaimer: Any advice contained within this blog is of a general nature only and cannot be relied upon. Author will not be held responsible for information presented.