According to article 3 of the law of January 3, 1977 relating to the field of architecture, the intervention of an architect is essential on expansion, transformation or construction projects requiring a building permit. To understand in detail the characteristics relating to this regulation, this short guide will help you.
Extension work of a "net surface area" greater than or equal to 170m2 requires the intervention of an architect. Indeed, it is the only one who is authorized to file the building permit with the town hall, an essential operation for a project of such scope. In certain exceptional cases, it is also essential to seek the services of a professional. In particular, it is necessary to call on its services in the event of a change in the use of premises, that is to say if you wish to transform a shop into a dwelling, a factory into several lofts or a hotel into a building of studios.
Unless there is a special clause imposed by the trustee, roof renovations and facade renovations do not require the expertise of an architect. The same is true for projects that do not involve the creation of additional surface area. Of course, even if its intervention is not mandatory, nothing prevents you from requesting a simple consultation. It's a good way to benefit from the sound advice of a real expert. He will bring you the most relevant solutions to some of your problems and will, very often, be able to offer you smart and practical arrangements that make the most of your space and its environment. His fees will be set at around 10% of the overall project cost.
To find a good architect, do not hesitate to do your research on the internet, to consult the various specialized magazines or to browse the forums, knowing that the best thing is word of mouth. The ideal is to opt for the services of an experienced professional. Its know-how is a guarantee of safety. However, freshly graduated architects can also be of great help. Thanks to their innovative ideas and trends, they can carry out rewarding and original projects. In addition, their fees are generally lower than those of their senior colleagues.
Every year, during a weekend in June, the architects open their doors, in order to discover their profession and their achievements:another way to find your architect!
You should know that there are almost 30,000 architects in France, i.e. 45 architects per 100,000 inhabitants, compared to an average of 82 in all the countries of the European Union. In Spain or Italy for example, the use of an architect is much more frequent and usual than in France.
