The casual observer might think a construction project starts when the first worker breaks ground, but many steps have to occur before anyone can move that first shovel of dirt. The project begins with a design, and for that, an architect is necessary. 

Before the hiring process begins, browse these questions to ask your architect to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Are There References I Can Contact?

Sometimes the best person to ask about the quality of an architecture firm is the last person they worked with. Testimonials and reviews are great resources, but there is no way to ensure they’re accurate and unbiased. Asking for references and having a phone or email conversation with a former client can help paint a more objective picture and make it easier to decide which architect to work with. 

Make a list of specific questions to ask the references and take detailed notes. A few questions to start with might include: 

• What kind of project did the architect design for you?

• Did they complete the work on time and within budget?

• Did they return your calls promptly?

• On a scale of one to 10, how satisfied were you with the finished project?

• Would you hire them again?

Ask the same questions of each reference to ensure the answers line up and the picture painted is objective and clear. 

Is the Company Insured?

When it comes to choosing questions to ask your architect, this one is fairly straightforward but essential. Some states require that architectural firms be insured, while others merely recommend it. Look for a firm that maintains a professional liability insurance policy. Smaller architectural firms or architects working for themselves may decide to forgo the costs of a plan, which creates a bigger risk in the long run if there are issues with the project.

How Involved Do I Need to Be?

Architectural firms don’t expect their clients to be CAD experts, but the design stage does require some involvement from the client. CAD models are easy to share and a great tool for design. It’s important to review these models to ensure the finished product meets all their specifications. Find out how involved the architect expects the client to be. It also helps ensure there are no scheduling conflicts that could delay the project further. 

How Can I Help the Process Move Forward?

Sometimes it’s as simple as clients asking what they can do to help. Most of the project will be in the architect’s hands and then later with the contractor, but there are likely some things the client can do to help the process move forward. This could be as simple as being available for phone calls or meetings or making the time to meet with the architect and contractor to make sure everyone is on the same page.

What Sort of Costs Can I Expect?

Architects don’t work for free. Hiring one can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $8,300, depending on the details of the project. The challenge here isn’t to try and haggle down the price but to understand the costs upfront. That way, there are no surprises and the client can budget appropriately. On the other hand, architectural firms that refuse to disclose their prices or are hostile when asked should be avoided. They may do great work, but it’s a major red flag if they’re relying on surprise tactics to get paid. 

What Issues, Considerations or Challenges Should I Be Aware Of?

It’s easy for a construction project to get complicated fast. Anything from a misplaced decimal point in measurement to a missing supply order or an incorrectly exported CAD file can throw a wrench into the works. Asking this question can help the client get ahead of any potential complications before they occur. 

Who Will I Be Working Directly With?

Establish the chain of command before the project begins. Unless the architect in question is working for themselves, there will likely be an entire firm’s worth of people involved at one stage or another. Clients need to know precisely who they’re working with from day one to ensure no wires get crossed and no crucial messages vanish into the ether. Communication is an essential part of the success of any project. 

Can We Reduce the Project’s Carbon Footprint?

Sustainability in construction is becoming an increasingly important topic. That also means there are a growing number of green and sustainable options available for clients to choose from. Perhaps the client’s state has specific energy efficiency goals that the project needs to meet. Projects that meet LEED certification standards are also starting to gain momentum, which requires a very specific type of design to maximize energy efficiency.  Depending on the architect’s particular skill set, there may even be some option for adopting biomimicry — architecture that mimics the natural world. 

Choose the Architect Carefully

Choosing an architect who can help turn a dream into reality is no easy task, but these questions should help make the choice a little easier.

Author Bio: Emily Newton is the Editor-in-Chief of Revolutionized. She is a journalist who covers the innovations impacting the construction and industrial sectors.

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