HOAI phases of work explained simply: from the idea to handover

Phases 1 to 4: from idea to approval

It all starts with the initial assessment and preliminary planning: clarifying requirements, reviewing options, estimating costs. During the draft design phase, the project takes shape; the planning for building permission bundles all documents for the building application, including structural stability, fire protection, and thermal insulation certificates.

Phases 5 to 7: preparing for construction

The execution planning translates the design into buildable plans, for example, formwork and reinforcement plans for the load-bearing structure. This is followed by preparation for and assistance in awarding contracts: specifications of services, bids, award recommendations.

Phases 8 and 9: construction and completion

During site supervision, often referred to as construction management, the execution is monitored: schedules, costs, quality. Phase 9 covers project management after handover, for instance, regarding defect claims.

What this means for your project

Not every project requires all phases from a single firm. The key is that the interfaces are clearly defined. Depending on the project, we can take on individual service phases or accompany you throughout, from the initial calculation to the final acceptance.

Anyone building for the first time will stumble upon the term 'service phases' early on. The HOAI, the Fee Structure for Architects and Engineers, structures planning and construction into nine phases. They provide clarity on who delivers what and when.

Phases 1 to 4: from idea to approval

It all starts with the initial assessment and preliminary planning: clarifying requirements, reviewing options, estimating costs. During the draft design phase, the project takes shape; the planning for building permission bundles all documents for the building application, including structural stability, fire protection, and thermal insulation certificates.

Phases 5 to 7: preparing for construction

The execution planning translates the design into buildable plans, for example, formwork and reinforcement plans for the load-bearing structure. This is followed by preparation for and assistance in awarding contracts: specifications of services, bids, award recommendations.

Phases 8 and 9: construction and completion

During site supervision, often referred to as construction management, the execution is monitored: schedules, costs, quality. Phase 9 covers project management after handover, for instance, regarding defect claims.

What this means for your project

Not every project requires all phases from a single firm. The key is that the interfaces are clearly defined. Depending on the project, we can take on individual service phases or accompany you throughout, from the initial calculation to the final acceptance.