Services · Principal Designer
Principal Designer
Most extensions and refurbishments now need a Principal Designer, both for health and safety under CDM 2015 and for compliance with the Building Regulations. We take on the role for homeowners, on our own projects and as a standalone appointment on projects designed by others.
Ade Fowler is a RIBA Chartered architect and is registered on the RIBA Principal Designer Register for domestic projects.
RIBA Principal Designer Register · Domestic →
Two roles
What a Principal Designer does
Under CDM 2015
Health and safety
Plans, manages and coordinates health and safety during the design stages, so risks are designed out where possible and the information the builder needs is passed on. We prepare the pre-construction information and the health and safety file.
Under the Building Regulations
Compliance
Plans, manages and coordinates the design work so that it complies with the Building Regulations, and confirms that compliance at completion. The two roles are separate duties, and are often held by the same person.
Is it for you?
When you need one
If more than one contractor will work on your project, you need a Principal Designer under CDM 2015. If more than one designer is involved, for example an architect and a structural engineer, you need one under the Building Regulations. That covers most extensions, basements, loft conversions and whole-house refurbishments.
On a listed or period house, the role matters even more: old structures, hidden services and fragile historic fabric bring risks that need careful planning before anyone starts on site.
How we work
From appointment to completion
01
Appointment
We agree the scope and confirm our appointment in writing, alongside or separate from our architectural services.
02
Pre-construction information
We gather what the builder needs to know about the house: its structure, services, hazards and access.
03
Design coordination
We review the design with the engineer and other designers, so risks are reduced and Building Regulations compliance is built in.
04
Handover to the builder
We pass the information on to the principal contractor and stay involved as design questions arise on site.
05
Completion
We compile the health and safety file and the compliance statement for building control, and hand them to you.
Standalone appointment
For homes designed by others
If your home has been designed by another architect or designer, or you are working directly with a builder, we can be appointed as Principal Designer on its own. We review the design and the information available, agree a fixed fee, and take on the duties from that point.
Architects and designers who are not on a Principal Designer register are welcome to refer clients to us.
Ask about a standalone appointment →Questions
Frequently asked
Do I need a Principal Designer for work on my home?
In most cases, yes. If more than one contractor will work on your project, a Principal Designer is needed under CDM 2015, and where more than one designer is involved, a Principal Designer is needed under the Building Regulations. Most extensions and refurbishments fall into one or both.
Who do you act for?
Homeowners having work done to their own home, either directly or through their architect, designer or builder. Ade is on the RIBA Principal Designer Register for domestic projects, which covers work for domestic clients.
What happens if I don’t appoint one?
For homeowners, the law places the duties on someone by default, usually the designer in control of the design. It is far better to appoint someone deliberately, so the role is understood, properly resourced and written into the appointments.
Can you be Principal Designer if you are not the architect?
Yes. We are often asked to act as Principal Designer on homes designed by other architects and designers, or where a homeowner is working directly with a builder. We can be appointed at any stage, though the earlier the better.
How much does it cost?
It depends on the size and complexity of the project. We quote a fixed fee once we understand the scheme.
Your project
Need a Principal Designer for your project?
Tell us about your property and what you hope to achieve. We respond personally, usually within one working day.