Magplano Ka!: How Much Do Architects Charge For Their Blueprint Plans?

It’s very exciting to finally secure the funds for your dream home. However, it can be quite stressful to decide what the budget will look like: how much is dedicated to purchasing materials, how much is set aside for permits and other legalities, and how much should be allotted to professional fees.

Many homeowners dream of building their ideal home but often feel uncertain about the costs associated with hiring an architect, particularly for blueprint plans. However, this can lead to delays or miscalculations in budgeting the project. So let’s figure it out right now. How much do architects charge, and what influences the cost of their services?

In this article, let’s break down the typical fees architects charge for blueprint plans in the Philippines, outline the factors that influence pricing, and offer tips on negotiating fees to help homeowners make informed decisions. 

Understanding these costs and what’s included can help you avoid budgetary surprises and ensure a smoother building experience.

Let’s learn, Ka-Builders!

Magplano Ka!: How Much Do Architects Charge For Their Blueprint Plans?

Range of Architect Fees for Blueprint Plans in the Philippines

In the Philippines, architect fees typically range from 8% to 10% of the total construction cost. This percentage reflects the complexity and scope of the project. For those requiring more comprehensive services, two specific types of fees are important to note:

• DAEOS (Detailed Architectural and Engineering Design Services): Typically 10% of the total projected construction cost.
• DADS (Detailed Architectural Design Services): Generally 6% of the total projected construction cost.

Cost Examples Based on Construction Type

Construction costs vary significantly based on the quality of finishes. Here’s a breakdown of average costs per square meter:

• Basic Finish: PHP 15,000 – PHP 20,000
• Standard Finish: PHP 20,000 – PHP 25,000
• Semi-Elegant Finish: PHP 25,000 – PHP 35,000
• Elegant Finish: PHP 40,000 – PHP 60,000

These ranges serve as a guideline, emphasizing the necessity of considering the actual costs dictated by the bill of materials and labor.

Other Factors Influencing Architect Fees

The fees for hiring an architect in the Philippines vary significantly based on the project’s type and complexity. The United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) Standards of Professional Practice state that the architect’s talents, skills, experience, and the required level of professional services influence the cost. For typical residential projects, architects may charge in one of several ways:

• Percentage-based: This is a common method for standard projects, typically ranging from 6% to 15% of the total construction cost, depending on the project’s complexity.
• Lump Sum or Fixed Fee: A predetermined fee for the entire scope of work, often used for simpler projects.
• Time-based: For consultation services or specialized tasks, fees are typically based on the number of hours worked.

Minimum Basic Fees

The UAP outlines a schedule for minimum basic fees, which varies according to the project’s construction cost and complexity. For example, for projects with a simpler utilization character (Group 1), the following minimum basic fees apply:

• For projects costing PHP 50 million and less: 6% of the total construction cost.
• For projects over PHP 50 million to PHP 100 million: PHP 3 million plus 5% of the excess.
• For projects over PHP 100 million to PHP 200 million: PHP 5.5 million plus 4% of the excess.
• For projects over PHP 200 million to PHP 500 million: PHP 9.5 million plus 3% of the excess.
• For projects over PHP 500 million to PHP 1 billion: PHP 18.5 million plus 2% of the excess.
• For projects over PHP 1 billion: PHP 28.5 million plus 1% of the excess.
• More complex projects requiring extensive detailing—such as furniture design and special fittings—may fall under a higher fee category, with a minimum basic fee of 15% of the total project cost.

Payment Structures and Conditions

Architectural services often follow a structured payment schedule:

Additionally, per diem and travel expenses beyond a 100 km radius from the architect’s office may incur extra charges. Architects also supervise full-time construction inspectors, guaranteeing the project’s execution in accordance with the plan.

Understanding these factors can help homeowners navigate the complexities of architectural fees and make informed decisions as they plan their construction projects.

Planning Ahead on Blueprints

For homeowners embarking on construction projects, understanding architect fees is critical. Homeowners should familiarize themselves with the typical ranges, factors influencing costs, and strategies for negotiation so they can approach their dream home projects with greater confidence.

To better understand the pricing and professional fees of your architect, schedule a consultation early. This will allow you to be more involved in the planning process and gain valuable insights that can help you get a clearer picture of potential costs. With the right preparation, building your dream home can become a more manageable and rewarding experience.

References:

Emerging Architects Studio. “How Much Does an Architect Cost?” Emerging Architects Studio, https://www.eastudio.ph/post/how-much-does-an-architect-cost. Accessed 20 September 2024.

Fulgar, Ian. “House Construction Costs In The Philippines 2024.” Ian Fulgar, 25 July 2024, https://www.ianfulgar.com/construction/house-construction-costs-in-the-philippines-2024/. Accessed 20 September 2024.

Rachitect. “How Much is the Architect Cost for Drawing Plans in the Philippines?” Rachitect, https://rachitect.com/how-much-architect-cost-drawing-plans-philippines/. Accessed 20 September 2024