When looking for an architect, 'phone around and ask questions Fees: These will vary depending on the amount of time the architect spends on your project. There will be a fee for outline planning drawings, and their submission to the local authority, however these fees are comparatively small compared to the cost of a full set of commissioned drawings and if in the event of your application being turned down the initial outlay has been at a minimum. Beware! Unless your architect is a Quantity surveyor they cannot give you an accurate costing for your project. As a long established company we often hear "The architect said it will cost this much". But bear in mind that what the architect might be doing is telling you what you want to hear so that you will commission them.