10 Essential Questions to Ask Your Architect Before Hiring

Choosing the right architect is one of the most important decisions in your building project. The architect you select will shape your vision, navigate complex regulations, and potentially save you thousands. Before committing, ask these 10 essential questions to ensure you're making the best choice for your project.

1. Are You a Registered Architect in Australia?

Always verify the architect is registered with the relevant state board. In Australia, only registered architects can legally call themselves 'architects'. Check their registration number and ensure they have professional indemnity insurance and current registration.

2. What Experience Do You Have with Similar Projects?

Ask to see their portfolio of similar projects. If you're building a residential extension, look for architects with extensive home renovation experience. For commercial projects, seek specialists in that sector. Experience matters significantly in achieving the best outcomes.

3. What Services Are Included in Your Fee?

Clarify exactly what's covered. Does the fee include concept design, council submissions, construction documentation, contract administration, and site visits? Understanding the scope prevents surprise costs later.

4. How Do You Charge - Hourly, Fixed, or Percentage?

Understanding the fee structure helps you budget accurately. Ask about payment milestones and what triggers additional fees. Get everything in writing before work commences.

5. What's Your Design Process and Timeline?

A professional architect should clearly explain their workflow from initial consultation through to construction completion. Ask about typical timeframes for each phase and how they handle client feedback and revisions.

6. How Do You Handle Council Approvals?

Council approval can be complex and time-consuming. Ask about their success rate with local councils, their knowledge of local planning laws, and whether approval assistance is included in their fees.

7. Will You Be My Main Contact Throughout?

In larger firms, you might meet with a senior architect initially, but work with junior staff. Clarify who will handle your project day-to-day and who you can contact with questions.

8. Can You Provide References from Recent Clients?

Reputable architects will happily provide references. Contact previous clients to ask about communication, budget management, problem-solving, and whether they'd hire the architect again.

9. How Do You Manage Budget and Cost Control?

Good architects design within your budget constraints. Ask how they estimate costs, manage variations, and what happens if the design exceeds budget. Do they value-engineer to bring costs down?

10. What Happens If We Disagree?

Disagreements can happen. Ask about their dispute resolution process and how they handle client concerns. A confident professional will have clear procedures for managing conflicts.

Key Takeaways

Asking these questions helps you assess not just the architect's technical skills, but also their communication style, professionalism, and suitability for your project. Take time to interview multiple architects, compare their responses, and trust your instincts. The right architect will be enthusiastic about your project, transparent about costs and processes, and committed to bringing your vision to life. Use ArchQuote to connect with licensed Australian architects and request detailed quotes.