Every South African architect and engineer organises projects around the SACAP Plan of Work. Understanding the stages helps you know what you're paying for and what to expect at each handover.
The 8 stages
Stage 0 — Strategic Definition
What is the business case? Do you actually need this project? Often skipped on domestic work but valuable on commercial.
Stage 1 — Preparation and Briefing
Site analysis, feasibility, project budget, schedule. The brief is fixed here.
Stage 2 — Concept Design
Sketch designs, mood boards, initial structural options. This is when ideas crystallise — and when changes are cheapest.
Stage 3 — Spatial Coordination
Design developed in detail. Structural, M&E, and architectural coordinated. Planning application typically submitted at the end of Stage 3.
Stage 4 — Technical Design
Full technical drawings, specifications, Building Regulations submission. Tender package prepared.
Stage 5 — Manufacturing and Construction
The build itself. Architect/engineer attends site, answers RFIs, inspects work.
Stage 6 — Handover
Practical completion, defects period, snagging.
Stage 7 — Use
Post-occupancy evaluation. Rare on domestic, important on commercial.
Where fees concentrate
For a typical extension, fees split roughly:
- Stages 1–3 (concept and planning): 35–45% of fee
- Stage 4 (technical design): 25–35%
- Stages 5–6 (construction support): 25–35%
Engaging an architect for Stages 0–3 only (planning consent) and then dropping to drawings-only saves money but loses construction oversight.
Where structural engineering fits
Engineers typically engage at Stage 3 (preliminary calculations for the planning structural strategy), with detailed design at Stage 4, and inspections during Stage 5. Earlier involvement saves money — designs locked at Stage 3 are expensive to restructure later.
MCFAR works alongside architects across SACAP stages. Get in touch for engineering input on your project.
Need expert engineering on your project?
MCFAR GROUP has been delivering structural engineering, building, and plumbing services since 1998. Talk to our team about your build, retrofit, or renovation.
Request a QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
Do I need to pay for all 8 stages?
No. Most domestic clients pay for Stages 1–4 in full and reduced involvement for Stage 5. Stage 0 and 7 are usually skipped on domestic work.
Can I appoint different professionals at different stages?
Yes, but coordination becomes your problem. Continuity is usually worth paying for.