Process — RIBA stages 0 to 7, in plain English

Most people have never done this before. Here is exactly how it goes.

Seven stages, from a first conversation to living in the finished thing. For each one: what happens, how long it usually takes, what we need from you, and when you pay.

STAGE 0–1

First conversation and brief

2–4 weeks

A call, then a visit to the property. We measure up, take photographs and write down what you actually want, including the things you have not said out loud yet. You get a written brief, a realistic budget range and an honest view of planning risk.

FROM YOUAccess to the property, any existing drawings or a deed plan, and a rough budget.

PAYMENTNothing for the first call. Survey and brief invoiced as a fixed fee on completion.

STAGE 2

Concept design

3–5 weeks

Two or three genuinely different options, drawn as plans and simple 3D views, so you can see the trade-offs rather than being sold one idea. We meet to talk them through and then develop the one you choose.

FROM YOUAn hour or two to review options properly, and a decision on which direction to take.

PAYMENTFixed fee for the stage, invoiced on issue of the concept drawings.

STAGE 3

Planning application

8–12 weeks

We prepare and submit the drawings and statements the council needs, and handle their questions. Determination is usually eight weeks from validation, sometimes longer. We tell you the day it is decided.

FROM YOUSign-off on the drawings before submission, and the council’s application fee.

PAYMENTStage fee on submission. Council fees paid directly by you.

STAGE 4

Technical design

6–10 weeks

The package a builder can price and build from: construction details, specifications, and coordination with a structural engineer and building control. This is where a project either gets cheaper or gets expensive, so it is worth the time.

FROM YOUChoices on materials, finishes and fittings, and appointment of a structural engineer.

PAYMENTStage fee, invoiced in two parts across the stage.

STAGE 5

Tender and appointing a builder

4–6 weeks

We send the package to three or four contractors, compare their prices on a like-for-like basis and explain what the differences mean. You appoint the builder directly, under a proper contract.

FROM YOUA decision on which contractor to appoint, and your solicitor if you want the contract reviewed.

PAYMENTFixed fee for tender review and contract preparation.

STAGE 6

On site

3–9 months

Site visits at agreed intervals, answers to the builder’s questions, and monthly valuations so you only pay for work actually done. You get a short written note after every visit, so you always know where things stand.

FROM YOUAvailability for monthly site meetings and prompt decisions when something unexpected appears.

PAYMENTMonthly, against a schedule agreed before work starts.

STAGE 7

Handover and after

Ongoing

Completion certificates, warranties and a snagging list worked through with the builder. We come back after six months to see how the building is behaving and whether anything needs attention.

FROM YOUA list of anything that is not right, however small.

PAYMENTFinal invoice on practical completion. The six-month visit is included.

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