Architect Q & A: Questions to Ask an Architect
Here are 50 Questions to Ask an Architect before engaging them as your Architectural Drafting and Design expert for a New Build or Home Renovation
Want to engage an Architect to design your new home, but not sure where to start? print out this list of Questions to Ask an architect and take it along to your initial meeting whether in-person or via zoom and take down some notes so you can make a decision about who is the best fit for you, and your project. Some key questions to ask include:
Background Check
Are you a Registered Architect? in which state e.g. VIC, NSW and what is your registration number?
Do you have insurance? Public Liability and/or Professional Indemnity
Could you please provide a review or reference from a previous client?
What other skills and services do you offer? e.g. 3D rendering, interior design
How much does an architect cost? what is a typical % or fixed fee for this type of project?
Previous Experience
Have you worked on any projects like this before? if so, provide information on the building typology.
Have you had any experience with this size of project? e.g. renovation, new build, townhouses, apartment building
What is your USP or ‘unique selling point’ that makes you different from other architectural practices?
Can I see your portfolio of similar projects? this should include images, floorplans or locations you can visit.
Who from the team would I be dealing with on a regular basis?
The Project Brief
What do you see as the opportunities or constraints on my site?
Does my rough ballpark figure budget align with the proposed brief?
Are you interested enough in my project to make it a priority?
What challenges do you foresee for my project or site?
What are the typical timeframes for delivery for drawings, council approval, permits etc?
Design
What is included in a detailed project brief? will I get a copy?
Can you explain the design process and project phases e.g. concept, design development, construction?
How much involvement will I have in the design process to provide feedback?
Do you use 3D design software? if so, which program/s?
What is your experience with sustainable design and Passivehaus?
Town Planning
Would my project need Town Planning approval?
What is the difference between a Planning Permit and a Building Permit?
Does my project have any Town Planning overlays I should be aware of?
Have you reviewed the Section 32 for information about my project?
Have you worked with this local council before?
Construction
Do you have any builders you can recommend?
What potential delays could occur on site that I should be aware of?
What is Contract Admin?
What role does the Architect play during the construction stage?
Can I stay in my home during the renovation?
Time
Will the works be broken down into different stages?
How long would it take to get my project from drawings to site?
How long does it typically take to get Town Planning approval?
What things could potentially delay getting a project to site?
Is there a construction program to show a project timeline for works?
Fees
What is your fee, and how do you charge?
What is a Client and Architect Agreement?
Can you confirm the scope for your services? e.g. what is included to excluded from the fee
If there are changes, will there be additional fees? How will these be justified and communicated?
Do you charge disbursements?
Budget
Does our Cost of Works budget align with the design brief?
How do you control the projects budget? e.g. cost estimates
Do you obtain estimates during the design and documentation stages?
What other costs should I allow for in addition to your fee? e.g. council etc
How much should I budget for the Consultant’s fees?
Should I allow for a contingency, if so how much?
Delivery and Beyond
When does handover occur for the finished project?
Will you do defecting to ensure the project is finished to our satisfaction?
How are defects rectified? what is the timeframe and who is involved?
Do you have a review form I can fill out?
Is there anything else I need to do before moving in?
If you’re interested in learning more, or would like to book in a free design consultation, click here to contact us.
Elevate your living experience with exceptional architectural drafting and interior design services in Melbourne!
Formery Architects
Melbourne Architect
_____
Disclaimer: All content on this website is provided by Formery for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. It is not legal, financial, insurance, or other advice and you should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in circumstances where loss or damage may result.
