When considering building or renovating a home in Portugal, it’s natural to have a few questions. One of the most important is: “Who is responsible for overseeing the work?” and “Why should I hire an architect for this supervision?” In this article, we’ll address these questions and explain everything you need to know about project oversight and the architect’s role in the process!
What is construction oversight, and who can carry it out?
Construction oversight refers to the technical supervision of a construction or renovation. Its purpose is to ensure that the project is carried out in accordance with the approved plans, adhering to safety standards and current regulations. In Portugal, oversight can be performed by different professionals, but the architect plays a particularly important role in this process. Do you know why?
The architect is not only the professional who designed your construction or renovation project, they can also take on the role of project coordinator, though they can never oversee their own proposal. However, if another architect takes on the role of supervisor for your project, you’ll ensure that everything is executed as planned. This supervising architect will be in continuous contact with your project’s architect, the specialized engineers, the contractor, and you, the project owner. Beyond that, the "supervising architect" ensures that the approved designs and their respective execution plans are followed accordingly with what was decided previously, preventing any unpleasant surprises at the end.
Read also: How to refurbish and decorate a local accommodation in Portugal
Why should you hire an architect for supervision?
If you're considering moving forward with a project, whether it’s a renovation or a new build, it’s only natural to wonder if hiring an architect to oversee the process is worth it or if another qualified professional would do. The answer is a resounding YES! An architect brings significant value, and here are a few reasons why:
Legality:
The architect has an in-depth understanding of the rules and laws that regulate construction. With their guidance, you can be sure that your project will meet all legal requirements, avoiding issues such as fines or even demolition orders.
Quality management:
With the architect supervising the project, you can trust that the materials and their application will be carried out as planned, ensuring that the team follows the plan and doesn't make "cuts" that could compromise the quality of the construction.If you decide to explore unfeasible ideas, the architect will help you understand the risks and guide you in making informed decisions, as you would be deviating from what was originally designed by the experts.
Problem prevention:
During construction, unexpected issues often arise. An experienced architect can address small problems before they turn into major complications, saving you time, money, and headaches.
Big picture perspective:
Even if they are not the author of your project, an architect has a comprehensive view of the project, ensuring that everything reflects what was planned, both aesthetically and functionally, and communicates this vision to the rest of the team.
Who is the "project owner"? and the "construction director"?
When discussing construction projects, you've probably heard the terms "project owner" and "construction director."
Project Owner:
It's you. You are the owner. You hold ultimate responsibility for the project, including obtaining permits and ensuring everything complies with the law. You choose the professionals and set the vision for the project.
Construction Director:
Usually this role is filled by the architect responsible for the project or the engineer. The "construction director" it is who oversee the work on-siteensuring that everything proceeds as planned. They represent you on-site, so you don’t have to be there every day.
Do I need a permit to carry out construction work?
Yes, you need a municipal permit for most construction work, especially if you are building or making significant changes to a house. Only some smaller works, such as interior renovations that don’t alter structural elements or the facade, may not require this authorization. Your architect can help you determine whether or not you need a permit for what you intend to do.
Building without a permit is a big risk. If you proceed without the proper authorization, you could face heavy taxes and even be required to demolish what has already been built. Believe me, this happens more often than you might think! Although the municipal approval process can be time-consuming, it ensures that your project is legal. The duration of this process depends on the type of intervention, as each case is unique — and that’s the beauty of architecture.
The rehabilitation of houses and the role of the architect.
When it comes to the rehabilitation of houses, the presence of an architect becomes even more essential. Renovating a home often involves the challenge of integrating the old with the new, respecting the building’s history while adapting it to modern needs. A good architect knows how to balance these two aspects, ensuring a final result that is both functional and visually appealing.
Additionally, the architect helps you address technical issues, such as selecting appropriate materials to preserve the integrity of the building while simultaneously improving its energy efficiency, all within safety standards and legal requirements.
Read also at our blog: Case Study: How Medellín, Colombia became a reference in social architecture
The best decision you can make
The supervision of construction projects is a crucial step in any building or renovation project. Having an architect that oversees this process is an essential decision. It not only ensures that everything proceeds within the legal framework and with quality, but also guarantees that the final result will be exactly what you envisioned, without any unpleasant surprises.
If you’re thinking of renovating a house or building from scratch, remember: that CURO is your trusted partner to ensure that the project goes according to the plan! Talk to us.