An archaeological consultant is a professional archaeologist, typically chartered with the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA), who carries out and manages the archaeological investigations required as conditions of planning permission. Development in areas of known or suspected archaeological potential triggers requirements for desk-based assessment, geophysical survey, trial trenching evaluation and watching briefs during groundwork. The local planning authority's planning archaeologist specifies the scope of investigation required, and the appointed consultant manages the work and produces the reports submitted to discharge the planning condition.
What they do
- Prepare desk-based assessments reviewing archaeological records and historic maps
- Commission and manage geophysical survey of development sites
- Carry out trial trenching evaluation to investigate buried remains
- Provide archaeological watching brief during groundwork operations
- Record standing building archaeology before alteration or demolition
- Liaise with local authority planning archaeologists on scope and approach
- Produce post-excavation analysis and final reports
- Submit records and archive to the local Historic Environment Record
When you need one
An archaeological consultant is required when planning conditions or pre-application advice indicates that archaeology needs to be assessed or mitigated before or during development.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| Job type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Desk-based assessment | £600 - £2,000 |
| Geophysical survey | £800 - £3,000 |
| Trial trenching evaluation (per trench) | £1,000 - £3,000+ |
| Watching brief (per day) | £400 - £700 / day |
| Building recording Level 1-4 | £400 - £4,000+ |
| Post-excavation analysis and report | £1,500 - £10,000+ |
| Hourly rate | £60 - £110 / hr |
Costs depend significantly on the scale and complexity of the archaeological potential and the scope required by the planning archaeologist. A brief site visit and consultation with the local HER is advisable before commissioning to scope the work correctly.
Qualifications to look for
MCIfA (Member) or ACIfA (Associate) membership of the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists is the professional standard for archaeological consultants. MCIfA demonstrates full chartered competence including managing archaeological projects. Check membership at archaeologists.net.
FCIfA is the highest level of CIfA membership, recognising significant contribution to the profession. Fellows typically have extensive experience of managing complex heritage assessments.
How to find an archaeological consultant
Frequently asked questions
When is an archaeological assessment required for planning?
Planning authorities require archaeological assessment when development may affect known or potential below-ground heritage assets - sites in areas of archaeological potential, near scheduled monuments, or where cropmarks or known finds suggest buried archaeology. The local authority's planning archaeologist will advise on the scope of assessment required. The requirement is set out as a condition on planning permission or may be required before permission is granted.
What is a watching brief?
An archaeologist present on site during groundwork operations (foundation excavation, drainage, service trenches) to monitor for and record any archaeological remains that are exposed. Often required as a planning condition alongside excavation. The archaeologist records any finds in situ before they are disturbed and produces a watching brief report submitted to the local Historic Environment Record.
What is a desk-based assessment?
A review of existing archaeological records, historic maps, aerial photographs and other documentary sources to establish the archaeological potential of a site. It is usually the first stage of archaeological assessment and informs the need for evaluation trenching. The desk-based assessment is submitted with or in advance of a planning application and is reviewed by the local planning archaeologist.