Home-Based building designer for extensions

Homeowners planning an extension or renovation, plus small builders and architects' clients who want drawings produced for them.

Fixed fee per project, often split into stages such as survey, planning drawings and building regulations drawings. Repeat work can come from builders who recommend you.

• CAD or BIM drawing software
• Knowledge of planning and building regulations
• Clear communication with clients
• Accurate measuring and attention to detail

• Professional indemnity insurance, as design mistakes can be costly
• The title 'architect' is protected in the UK, so describe yourself as a building designer or architectural designer
• Check whether you need qualifications or membership of a professional body to win clients' trust
• Public liability insurance for site visits
• Check whether your mortgage or tenancy allows you to work from home

Startup costs are typically estimated at around £1,000 to £5,000, depending on your CAD or BIM software, computer and measuring equipment, insurance and how you find your first clients.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £800 to £4,000, depending on how many extension and loft conversion projects you take on and your hours. The estimate starts from about 10 hours a week.

Check professional indemnity insurance, public liability cover for site visits and any qualifications or professional body membership clients expect. The title 'architect' is protected in the UK, so call yourself a building designer. Also check your mortgage or tenancy allows home working.