FAQ

If you're planning to build or renovate in New Zealand, you’ll likely need an architect. Architects are formally trained in building design, with a broad knowledge of all things construction. Your architect will help you to develop and draw up plans for construction, along with managing the consents and other specialty consultants required.

That said, some minor building works don’t require building consent, and may not require architectural input. Here’s how to find out.

When you might not need an architect:

Under New Zealand law, some building work is exempt from needing a building consent. These exemptions are listed in Schedule 1 of the Building Act 2004. For example, certain small structures, decks, fences, or internal renovations may not need consent.

• The Building Performance website provides a user-friendly overview of these exemptions with examples.

• Local councils often have helpful resources. If you're building in Auckland, the Council’s online tool can help: Do I need a consent?

Even without a building consent, you may still need an architect. You’ll likely still need:

• Drawings for your builder

• Guidance on how the building work fits your site

• Help coordinating consultants

• Building code compliance advice

What about resource consent? Even if you don’t need building consent, you may need resource consent—especially if your project impacts the environment, neighbours, or breaches local planning rules (like height or boundary controls).

This is governed by:

• The Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA)

• Your local district or unitary plan (in Auckland, this is the Auckland Unitary Plan)

Still unsure? Let’s chat. We offer no-obligation consultations—often we can tell you in just a few minutes what you do or don’t need to consider before starting. Reach out and we’ll help you navigate the next steps.

Send me an email — carl@legacyarchitects.co.nz

Choosing the right professional for your building project can be confusing. In New Zealand, the terms architect, architectural designer, and draftsperson are often used interchangeably—but they’re not the same. Each offers different levels of expertise, qualifications, and fees. Here's a clear breakdown to help you choose the right fit for your project.

Architect (Registered Architect)

A Registered Architect is a highly qualified professional licensed by the New Zealand Registered Architects Board (NZRAB)—the only authority that can legally grant the title “architect.” Misuse of the title is an offence under NZ law.

Key attributes:

· Typically hold a Master’s degree in architecture and significant practical experience.

· Legally qualified to lead complex and large-scale building projects.

· Known for their design excellence, technical skills, and leadership across all phases—from concept to construction.

· Commonly involved in bespoke housing, heritage projects, and high-budget builds requiring coordination with multiple consultants.

Typical fees:

· 10–14% of the build cost (for full service), or $150–$280/hour.

Best suited for: Large, high-value, or design-led projects where precision and design quality are paramount.

Architectural Designer (LBP Designer)

An Architectural Designer typically holds a tertiary qualification in architecture or drafting. They must be registered as a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) in one of three design classes, with Class 3 being the highest.

Key attributes:

· Licensed under MBIE’s LBP scheme, independently assessed for competency.

· Cannot call themselves architects (even though the term “architectural” is used).

· A broad range of skills and design sensibility; many are highly competent for residential and light commercial work.

Typical fees:

· 5–10% of the build cost, or $100–$200/hour.

Best suited for: Residential builds, extensions, and renovations where design quality matters, but the project doesn’t necessitate a registered architect.

Draftsperson (Draughtsperson / Drafting Technician)

A draftsperson is focused on the technical and compliance side of building design. They often hold a diploma in drafting and may be LBP registered.

Key attributes:

· Specialise in producing code-compliant technical drawings and documentation.

· Less emphasis on creative spatial design or aesthetics.

· Typically work from plans or ideas provided by the client or architect.

· Sometimes subcontracted by architects or designers to complete consent documentation.

Typical fees:

· 1–5% of the build cost, or $50–$150/hour.

Best suited for: Smaller, lower-budget projects with a clearly defined scope—where design complexity is minimal and you know exactly what you want.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between these professionals depends on your budget, project complexity, and how much design input you need.

If you're unsure, we're happy to offer a free, no-obligation conversation to help determine the right fit for your goals and your site.

Hiring the right architect is one of the most important decisions you’ll make on your building journey. A good match will elevate your project; a poor one can cause delays, frustrations, and cost blowouts.

Here’s how to make an informed decision:

1. Understand the architect’s specialisation

Architects are generalists by training—we understand all parts of the building process, including how trades and consultants work together. But most architects also have areas of specialisation, such as:

• Residential design (custom homes, alterations, heritage)

• Commercial design

• Industrial design

• Urban design

• Mixed-use

It’s important to find someone with experience in the type of project you’re undertaking. Don't hire an industrial architect for a heritage villa renovation in Devonport or a coastal home in Pauanui.

2. Consider location and style compatibility

Some architects work nationally, but others focus on particular regions and understand the local environment, council processes, and lifestyle expectations better. Also consider whether the architect’s design style aligns with your own taste.

Ask to see:

• Previous work similar to your project type

• Examples of how they responded to client briefs

• Projects in your area or region

3. Be Wary of Too-Cheap (or Too-Expensive) Options

As the saying goes, you get what you pay for. Be cautious of quotes or estimates that seem unusually low—this can reflect inexperience, low involvement, or excessive reliance on templated design.

On the other hand, higher fees don’t always guarantee a better outcome. Like fine wine, there's a point where you stop tasting the difference.

Aim for value, not just cost. A good architect will help you make smart decisions that often save more than their fee in the long run.

4. Choose Someone Who Listens

Communication is key. While your architect brings technical and creative expertise, you are the expert in how you live.

Watch for red flags:

• Do they consistently overrule your ideas?

• Does their return-brief clearly acknowledge your core objectives?

• Are they pushing a solution that doesn’t suit your needs?

A great architect will challenge you— but also listens carefully and respect your goals. That’s how great, collaborative design happens.

5. Our Approach at Legacy Architects

At Legacy Architects, we specialise in custom single housing—new builds, full renovations, holiday homes, and heritage properties. We are Auckland-based, with nation-wide experience.

We focus on:

• Direct, honest communication

• Respect for your brief

• Creative solutions you might not have expected

We’re not the right fit for everyone, but if you value a thoughtful, personal process—we’d love to hear from you. We offer free consultations, so feel free to get in touch and see if we’re a good match.

It’s the question every client asks—how much does it cost to hire an architect in New Zealand? And the honest answer is: it depends.

At Legacy Architects, we aim for transparency. While every project is different, our full-service fees for custom residential architecture typically fall between 10–14% of the total project value.

Here’s how those fees are determined—and what might push them higher or lower.

1. Complexity of the Project

The more complex the design, the more time, detail, and coordination it requires.

Factors that increase complexity:

• Heritage-listed buildings

• Steep or awkwardly shaped sites

• Multiple floor levels

• Large openings or structural spans

• Resource consents

• Experimental materials (e.g. rammed earth, corten steel)

• Extensive alteration or retrofit work

Even projects with modest budgets can become fee-intensive if they involve these challenges.

2. Scale of the Project

Here’s where economies of scale come into play. Large homes often result in lower fees as a percentage of construction cost because core documentation (site plans, floor plans, elevations, etc.) is needed regardless of size.

Small builds, on the other hand, may attract a higher percentage fee, because the same base level of effort is required to produce drawings and manage consent processes—despite a smaller overall budget.

Example A: Simple Custom Home

• Build budget: $1.5M

• Site: Flat, urban location

• Design: Single storey, conventional materials

• Estimated architectural fee: 10% of build cost = $150,000

• Includes: Full design, documentation, consent processing, tendering, and site observation.

Example B: Complex Custom Home

• Build budget: $1.5M

• Site: Steep rural site with poor access

• Design: Multi-level, uses rammed earth and bespoke detailing

• Estimated architectural fee: 14% of build cost = $210,000

• Note: The increased fee reflects both the time required and the added complexity. In reality, this budget may require scaling back the home’s size or features to stay viable.

A Final Word on Cost

Architectural services are a professional investment—not just an upfront cost. A good architect can often save you money by avoiding mistakes, improving efficiency, and helping you build something of lasting value.

Thinking of Building?

If you're unsure where your project might sit in terms of cost and complexity, we're happy to offer a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll help you understand your options—and what kind of architectural support will suit your goals and budget.

— Don't delay, send us an email today

Architects in New Zealand typically charge using one of two models: a percentage of the build cost or hourly rates. Sometimes, a combination of both is used, depending on the project stage and scope. Here’s how each fee structure works, and what to consider when choosing between them.

1. Percentage of Build Cost

This is the most common approach for full-service architectural work.

• Fees are calculated as a percentage of the total construction cost.

• Typical range: 10–14% for residential projects under $3 million.

• The percentage depends on project complexity and size:

  • Smaller or more complex projects → higher percentage

  • Larger or simpler projects → lower percentage

The total fee may be fixed once the design is confirmed and costed by a quantity surveyor. However, fees may be adjusted if there are significant changes to the brief or late variations.

Be sure to clarify what's included:

• Is contract administration part of the service?

• What about 3D renders, interior or landscape design, or resource consent support?

• Some services may be excluded or offered as add-ons.

2. Hourly Charge-Out Rates

This structure is often used for advisory work, early-stage feasibility, or when scope is unclear.

• Typical rates: $150–$280 per hour, depending on seniority and experience.

• Efficient, experienced architects may charge more per hour—but often work faster.

• Ideal for:

  • One-off consultations

  • Resource consent support

  • RFI (request for information) responses

  • Minor updates or project add-ons

Note: Hourly fees are flexible but open-ended. You’ll only pay for what you need—but unexpected complexities can raise final costs. Be sure to request an estimate and delivery timeframe to manage risk.

• Percentage fees offer predictability once the project scope is clear.

• Hourly fees suit flexible or undefined scopes.

Our Approach

At Legacy Architects, we often use a blended model that balances clarity and flexibility:

Phase

Fee Structure

Initial briefing & proposal — Free

Concept (sketch) design — $5,000 fixed fee

Preliminary & developed design — Percentage fee

Detailed design — Percentage fee

Tendering, site observation, contract admin — Percentage fee

Additional services (quoted separately or hourly):

• Interior design (detailed): Negotiated fixed fee or hourly

• Landscaping design: Negotiated fixed fee or hourly

• Resource consent documentation: Hourly

• 3D renders: Hourly

• RFI responses exceeding 32 hours: Hourly

• Major changes to the brief: By negotiation

Before You Sign

Always make sure you:

• Understand exactly what's included

• Know how and when fees will be reviewed or adjusted

• Are satisfied you have answers to all your questions

If anything’s unclear, just ask—it’s part of our job to help you make informed decisions.

This is one of the most frequently asked questions—and one of the most difficult to answer with certainty. There are many variables: site conditions, project complexity, contractor availability, design detail, and specification level all impact the final price.

It’s important to note that pricing is not within the architect’s formal area of expertise. For reliable estimates, especially before securing finance, you should engage a quantity surveyor (QS) early and provide as much design detail as possible.

That said, here’s a broad guide to construction costs in Auckland for 2025, based on current industry patterns and excluding land costs.

Entry-Level Housing (~$4,000/m²)

At the more affordable end, standalone homes might be built for around $4,000 per square metre. This price typically assumes:

• A flat, accessible site

• Standard timber frame construction

• Simple detailing and layout (e.g., rectangular footprint)

• Basic finishes and fittings

Group home builders dominate this market, offering pre-designed plans with optimised layouts and economies of scale. Architects are not commonly engaged in this space, although there are exceptions for very efficient or repeatable designs.

Note: At this tier, upgrades and variations can add cost quickly. Staying on budget requires careful restraint in choosing materials and fixtures.

Typical Custom Homes ($4,000–$6,000/m²)

This range covers most new housing in Auckland, especially 3–4 bedroom family homes with no more than moderate complexity.

Features may include:

• Split-level and generally rectangular forms

• Mid-range materials and fixtures

• Some architectural input

Expect the base construction cost to exclude:

• GST

• Driveways, fences, and landscaping

• Curtains, appliances, and whiteware

We suggest you hold a 10% contingency in reserve to cover unforeseen changes or construction delays.

Premium Architectural Homes ($7,000-$10,000/m²)

Custom architectural homes typically start from $7,000 per square metre, depending on the brief and complexity.

Clients at this level are looking for:

• Tailored layouts to suit lifestyle

• Bespoke details

• High-quality materials and finishes

• Integration with site and views

Architects demonstrate the most value at this level by crafting homes that create memorable spatial experiences and enduring design.

Luxury Homes ($10,000–$15,000+/m²)

Luxury homes represent the upper tier of residential construction. At $10,000 per square metre and beyond, clients are investing in:

• Architectural statement homes

• Rare or imported materials

• Complex or sculptural structures

• High-performance sustainability systems

• Cutting edge technology integration

Projects in this range typically require:

• Close collaboration between architect, builder, and specialist consultants

• Builders with specialist experience

• A high-touch project management approach

These homes prioritise quality, detail, and user experience over cost control.

Important Considerations

• Square metre rates are typically based on gross floor area (GFA), including garages and covered decks.

• Market conditions, including supply chain pressures and labour shortages, can significantly influence pricing.

• The final cost also depends on client-driven decisions around scope, finishes, and change management.

How We Help

At Legacy Architects, we help clients define a realistic budget early in the process. We recommend engaging a quantity surveyor at the end of concept design to confirm buildability within your financial expectations.

Not sure where your project might fall on the cost spectrum? Contact us for a no-obligation chat, and we’ll walk you through what to expect based on your goals, site, and timeline.

Disclaimer: The costs provided above are indicative only and based on industry trends in Auckland as of 2025. Always seek professional quantity surveying advice for accurate and project-specific pricing.

Hiring an architect is often the first step in the design and construction process—but it’s rarely the only professional you’ll need.

Most building projects in New Zealand require input from a range of consultants, depending on the site conditions, complexity, consent requirements, and design aspirations. As your architect, we’ll help you identify which consultants are needed, coordinate their involvement, and integrate their input into the design.

Typically, consultants are engaged directly by the client, and their fees are additional to architectural services—unless otherwise agreed.

Here’s an overview of the most commonly required consultants for residential architecture projects in New Zealand:

Planner

Required when your project requires a resource consent, particularly if it breaches your local district or unitary plan rules or falls within a regulated zone (e.g., flood, heritage, ecological zones). A planner will:

• Advise on your project's planning risks

• Prepare the Assessment of Environmental Effects (AEE)

• Strategize how to best position your proposal with council

Involvement early in the design process is ideal.

Quantity Surveyor (QS)

A QS provides cost and quantity advice throughout the design process and helps ensure your budget remains achievable. Banks may also require a QS report for finance approval.

• Prepares cost estimates at various design stages

• Helps avoid late-stage redesign due to budget overruns

• Typically required before contractor pricing or tendering

• Contract administration reporting services

While architects can offer broad cost advice, we are not cost specialists.

Structural Engineer

Required for most custom residential builds, especially where:

• Steel, concrete, or engineered timber elements are used

• Multi-storey, cantilevered, or unusual forms are involved

They design and certify all structural systems needed to meet NZ Building Code performance.

Geotechnical Engineer

Provides a soil report to determine foundation design requirements. Often required when:

• Building on sloped or previously developed land

• Council requests soil performance data

Early engagement can avoid delays later in the process.

Cadastral Surveyor

Often the first consultant engaged. Provides legal and physical site data, including:

• Land boundaries and title information

• Contour plans and site levels

• Easements and site encumbrances

Especially critical for sites with tight height or setback controls, or for subdivisions.

Interior Designer

Focuses on the interior environment, including:

• Materials, lighting, colour schemes

• Furniture, fixtures, fittings, window treatments

• Artwork and styling

Overlap with the architect’s role is common. Appointing an interior designer early helps ensure roles are clearly defined and design decisions are integrated smoothly. Clear boundaries help avoid duplication or conflict.

Heritage Architect

Required when working on heritage-listed buildings or sites of historical significance. They:

• Prepare Heritage Impact Statements and/or Conservation Plans

• Liaise with Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga and council

Note: Special character overlays (e.g. in many older Auckland suburbs) are not the same as heritage listings, but may still trigger a resource consent.

Arborist

Required if your building work could affect a protected or council-owned tree. They assess:

• Tree health and root zones

• Impact of proposed works

• Mitigation or protection measures

Council may request an arborist report during the consent process.

Other Specialist Consultants

Depending on the nature of your project, other professionals may be required:

• Traffic Engineer – where access or traffic impact is a concern

• Civil Engineer – for drainage, driveways, and siteworks

• Mechanical Engineer – for HVAC or passive design systems

• Fire Engineer – if alternative solutions or fire reports are needed

• Façade Engineer – for complex external envelope systems and buildings over 10m

• Acoustic Engineer – near roads, rail, or mixed-use zones

• Environmental or Planning Lawyer – for appeals or legal advice

• Iwi Consultant – for culturally sensitive sites

• 3D Scanning or BIM Consultant – for detailed site or existing building data

• Building Surveyor – for work on existing or degraded buildings

• Asbestos Consultant – required for demolition or alteration of older homes

• Property Valuer – for feasibility or resale analysis

How We Help

At Legacy Architects, we take the guesswork out of consultant coordination. Based on your project brief and site, we’ll advise:

• Which consultants you’ll need

• When to engage them

• What to budget for their services

• Recommendations for quality consultants suited to your project

Need help getting started? We can provide an outline of expected consultants and typical costs during your project’s feasibility phase.

This is one of the most common questions—and a difficult one to answer definitively. Project timelines vary significantly depending on project complexity, site conditions, client responsiveness, consultant input, and council processing times.

What follows is a general guide to how long each design stage typically takes for a custom residential project in New Zealand. These are calendar timeframes, not hours worked, and are based on our experience.

Concept Design (1–3 weeks)

This initial stage translates your brief into early design ideas. We typically prepare:

• Sketch floor plans

• Basic 3D views or massing studies

• Supporting notes and design rationale

We include 1–2 meetings in this stage to present and discuss the initial scheme. The timeframe depends on the complexity of the brief and how naturally the site responds to it.

Note: We offer concept design as a $5000 flat-fee package for simplicity.

Preliminary Design (4–8 weeks)

This is one of the more variable phases, as the design can evolve significantly based on:

• Client feedback and decision-making

• Site complexities

• Early consultant input (e.g., planners, engineers)

Design ideas are refined, spatial arrangements are developed, and early feasibility issues are addressed. The number of iterations required can affect how long this stage takes.

Developed Design (2–6 weeks)

In this phase, most major design decisions are confirmed:

• Material selections

• Interior layouts

• Structural systems

If a resource consent is required (e.g., due to zoning or special character overlays), the application is typically prepared during this stage.

Resource Consent Processing (6–8 weeks)

This is the council processing time once an application is lodged (when required). While this process is outside the architect’s control, we manage communication with the council and respond to any requests for further information (RFI) as part of our service.

Detailed Design & Building Consent Documentation (8–20 weeks)

This is the most intensive stage of the design process for the architect. It includes:

• Full documentation for council and builders

• Detailed specifications

• Coordination with consultants (e.g., structural, geotechnical, drainage)

Deliverables include a comprehensive set of drawings (often between 20–80 pages) and technical documents to support the building consent application.

Building Consent Processing (6–8 weeks)

The timeframe for council to process a consent is 20 working days. Once the council administration time and RFI’s are included this generally take 6-8 weeks. Delays can occur depending on:

• RFI responses (requests for further information)

• Council staffing

• Other third parties (Watercare, Auckland Transport etc)

We lodge, monitor and manage this process on your behalf.

Tendering & Contract Formation (2–4 weeks)

Once consent drawings are complete (or submitted), we:

• Prepare tender documents

• Help you select and interview builders

• Finalise the construction contract

For efficiency, this stage often overlaps with building consent processing.

Construction Observation & Contract Administration (12–24 months)

During construction, we:

• Observe the work

• Respond to builder queries

• Administer the construction contract on your behalf

• Progress reporting

• Provide supporting documentation

• Facilitate amendments and variations

The length of this phase mirrors the building programme. For custom homes in the $800K–$3M range, construction typically takes 12–24 months, depending on scope and contractor availability.

Important Notes

• These timeframes are indicative only.

• Delays can occur due to weather, supply chain issues, council processing, decision-making delays, and changes.

• Your responsiveness, along with that of consultants and the council, will greatly influence the project duration.

How We Help

At Legacy Architects, we work hard to keep your project moving forward with clear milestones and open communication. If you'd like a tailored project timeline based on your brief, site, and goals—get in touch. We're here to help you understand the road ahead.

Creating a written brief is one of the most valuable steps you can take at the beginning of your project. A good brief helps your architect understand your goals, constraints, and lifestyle needs—so your design reflects your vision, not just the minimum requirements.

Don’t risk missing out on key outcomes for lack of a clear 1–2 page document you could prepare in a weekend.

Note: Your brief is a starting point, not a contract. It will evolve through discussion with your architect as more details and constraints come to light.

Budget

• What is your target build cost or upper limit?

• Should this budget include architectural and consultant fees, or just construction?

• Are you thinking in terms of total cost, or price per square metre?

• Is this a fixed sum, or are you looking for advice on aligning your goals with a realistic budget?

Being upfront about your budget—even if it's just a ballpark—helps avoid wasted effort and disappointment later on.

Programme (Timeline)

• Do you have a desired start or completion date?

• Are there life events the schedule needs to work around (e.g. school enrolments, baby due dates, tenancy changes)?

• Separate your expectations into two parts:

  • Design phase: how long you can commit to the design and approvals process

  • Construction phase: when you’d ideally like building to start or finish

Be realistic. Most projects take longer than expected—especially once council approvals and contractor availability are factored in.

Site or Location Details

If you already own the site or house, include:

• The site address or Lot number

• Any LIM reports, property files, or previous drawings you have

• Photos of the site or existing house

• Descriptions of key features: views, trees, topography, sun orientation, or hazards

If you haven’t purchased yet, we can still help assess a prospective site’s feasibility.

Functional Objectives

• How many bedrooms, bathrooms, living areas?

• Garaging, storage, home offices, studio space?

• Any special requirements? (e.g. piano, wine cellar, wheelchair access, boat storage)

• Who will live here—and how do they use space day-to-day?

The more detail you give about how you live, the better we can design for it.

Style Preferences & Inspirations

Architects are visual thinkers. Include:

• Links or images of homes you admire

• Notes on preferred materials, colours, finishes

• Any “must-haves” or “never-evers”

Pinterest boards, magazine clippings, or saved Instagram posts are all helpful.

Communication Preferences

Let your architect know how you prefer to work:

• Weekly updates or milestone check-ins?

• In-person meetings or Zoom?

• Who is the primary decision-maker?

Known Constraints

Are there any practical limitations you’re already aware of?

• Is the property tenanted or occupied?

• Will you live on site during construction?

• Are there budget stages or phasing requirements?

• Are there consultants you’ve already chosen (e.g. engineer, builder)?

Sharing these early helps avoid avoidable friction during later stages.

Not Sure Where to Start?

We’re happy to help. At Legacy Architects, we offer a no-obligation initial consultation to help clarify your goals and identify what you might need. We can prepare a brief for you — get in touch. Or, if you prefer to do it yourself, here's our brief template in a simple check-box format.

You can make changes at almost any point in the process. However, the later a change is made, the more likely it is to impact cost, timelines, and compliance requirements.

Here’s what to expect depending on the stage you’re at:

Early Design Stages (Concept & Preliminary Design)

This is the ideal time to explore alternatives, revise layouts, and make major changes. At this stage:

• Designs are still conceptual and flexible

• Construction details have not yet been documented

• Most consultants (like engineers or planners) are not yet involved

These changes are generally low-cost and low-risk — and part of the normal process.

Developed & Detailed Design

Once the project moves into developed and detailed design stages, design elements become more fixed. Changes made here may require:

• Revising architectural drawings and specifications

• Re-coordination with consultants (e.g. structural or fire engineers)

• Additional time and fees to accommodate rework

For example, changing your cladding material from weatherboards to metal may affect multiple elevation drawings, wall details, fixing systems, and compliance calculations.

If you’ve previously approved earlier stages, your architect is entitled to charge additional fees to revise work. Always ask — sometimes the change may be small, or hasn’t been drawn yet.

During Construction

Changes made during the build are possible — but they may also trigger council involvement:

Minor Variations:

• Simple changes (e.g. material substitutions, minor omissions) may qualify

• These are usually handled with a council form and updated drawings

• Typically approved without significant delay

Building Consent Amendments:

• Structural or weathertightness changes usually require a full amendment

• Council has the standard 20 working days to process these

• This may delay construction and increase consultant and builder costs

For more details, refer to MBIE’s guide on minor variations and amendments.

What About Omissions or Cancellations?

If you decide to remove an element (e.g. a swimming pool or a second bathroom), you’ll usually see savings in construction — but not necessarily in architectural fees. If the architect has already completed design and documentation for that element, it’s unlikely to qualify for a fee reduction.

Final Advice

• Always communicate changes clearly and as early as possible

• Confirm in writing any scope changes and their impact on fees or timeline

• Understand that changes may trigger costs from multiple consultants or require council approval

• Your architect will guide you through the options and help assess the cost-risk balance