Key Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Architect for Your Home Extension
Extending your home, designing, and making changes can be exciting but also nerve-wracking, especially for homeowners with little or no experience in such projects. The stakes are high, and the outcome will likely impact your family’s well-being.
Hiring an architect for your home extension can cost up to 15%, but an architect can be invaluable, especially when you’re feeling demoralised about making your architectural dreams a reality. They assist with design, request planning permission, acquire reliable builders, monitor progress, and maintain quality throughout the project.
After engaging an architect, all project-related matters will be based on your communication with them. It’s essential to make those conversations count to ensure a successful project. Here are seven important questions to ask your architect before commencing the work:
1. Do You Have References?
This question is highly recommended by the American Institute of Architects and many other professionals. Hiring an architect with impressive designs is not enough; it’s vital to know about their past clients and contractors. Follow up on provided references and inquire about the architect’s professional relationships, communication levels, and adherence to budgets. This knowledge can help you avoid potential headaches caused by an unreliable architect.
2. What’s Your Fee Structure, and What Can I Expect in Costs?
Understanding cost limitations is crucial for achieving quality work. Architects have various fee structures and methods for charging for designs. Be open about your budget and ensure you know all charges before starting the project. Ask about additional costs for any new construction or design amendments to avoid unexpected expenses later. Remember to inquire how often your project might come in under budget.
3. How Long Will the Process Take?
Inform your architect about the kind of client you intend to be and the time commitment you can make for the project. Your architect may be working with multiple clients, so it’s essential to understand the timetable involved. Knowing the estimated duration of your project can reduce stress and prepare you for the time commitment required. Your architect might also suggest construction methods that reduce labour needs, helping to expedite the process.
4. What Are the Challenges of My Building Project?
Having a clear understanding of your building project is critical, especially if your designs involve unusual shapes, complex pitches, special installations, or zoning restrictions. Your architect should be aware of potential construction and design challenges, as well as necessary city approvals. They may also offer alternative solutions if they foresee specific issues that could slow progress or increase costs.
5. Who’s on My Team?
Since many professionals will be involved in your project, it’s important to ask questions like, “Which architect will I communicate with frequently? Who will be working on my project? Who will be designing it?” Establishing a formal introduction to your team can help build a solid rapport. Additionally, find out if your architect has relationships with material suppliers who can provide advice. Knowing who to contact for concerns will facilitate a smoother project.
6. Are You Insured?
It’s important to determine whether your architect’s firm is insured, as their solvency is crucial to your project. You want to avoid working with a firm that has legal challenges. Request verification of the firm’s insurance status and ask if any previous clients have made claims against them.
7. What’s Your Role with the Contractor?
If you have a contractor in mind, great; if not, your architect can recommend one. Inquire about the contractor’s track record and what role the architect will play in working with them. Architects often provide objective feedback regarding the contractor’s performance.
