Questions to ask your Architect

Questions about experience and quality of work
How experienced are you in my type of building?
Do you have any references for similar buildings that I can speak to?
Can I visit similar buildings?
Who will be doing the design work? how experienced is my architect?
How contactable are you?
How busy are you?
What are your current jobs? Can I contact the client?

Questions about architectural services
What do you include as part of your quote?
What is excluded from your services?
Are you going to prepare a brief for any external consultants?
Will you manage my project until completion of construction?

Questions about timing
When can you start?
When do you expect to finish?
What constraints do you envisage?
Do I need to employ external consultants?
What will the key milestone dates for design work be?
Can you guarantee that things will be done when required?
When will your invoices arrive?

Questions about fees and costs
How much do you charge for your services?
How competitive are you compared to other architects?
how much will my construction cost be?

Questions about Development Approvals
Do we need any Council approval for this development?
Do we require the services of a Town Planner?
Do you include assistance with the development approval in your fee proposal?

Questions to think about when interviewing your architect
How interested is the architect in your project?
What sets this architect apart?
What does your architect think of your ideas?
How organised is the architect?
Who will be your point of contact?