6 Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Architect
When hiring an architect, you may want to first interview several to find the best one for your project. Here are some questions to help guide your selection process:
- What Are Some Suggestions You Have for the Design?
Good architects listen to their clients’ needs and preferences while also ensuring their designs are functional and code-compliant. See if the architect’s suggestions are aligned with what you want and need, and ask for the reasoning behind anything that deviates from your requests.
- What Challenges Do You Expect for This Project?
Asking about challenges gives you insight into the architect’s thought process. Since each project is unique, with unique challenges, it can be helpful to find someone with an ability to solve problems creatively.
- When Can You Complete the Project?
Before hiring an architect, check if there’s enough room in his or her schedule to address unexpected challenges of the project quickly. Since timeliness is important, make sure your agreed-upon timeline can accommodate some surprises if necessary.
- Will You Work Directly With the Contractors, and Can You Describe That Process?
In general, it’s wise to find an architect who provides ongoing professional oversight. By doing so, you’ll help ensure that the final result adheres to the original design. Ideally, the architect you hire will already have a list of highly regarded contractors he or she works well with.
- Will You Provide an Itemized, Comprehensive Estimate?
To compare estimates, you’ll need to know which costs are included. Sometimes a lower price doesn’t account for services like construction oversight or other “hidden” costs, like permits.
- Can You Provide a Portfolio of Your Recent Work and List of Client References?
Professionals take pride in their work and will gladly provide this info. Look through photos of their work to gauge the quality of their designs, and talk to other clients about their experiences with the architect.
There may be additional questions you’ll want to ask, so it’s a good idea to write them all down. Hiring an architect is an important decision, and taking the time to ask thoughtful questions in the beginning can help you hire someone who will do an excellent job.