What Kind of Credentials Do You Have?

Whether you are working with a commercial building architect, a residential architect or an office plan architect, they must be licensed to practice architecture in Alabama.

The state has licensure requirements, and the license can expire. Ensure your architect’s license is current by performing a License Verification on the State of Alabama’s Board of Architectures website 
Additionally, don’t settle for a recent graduate. Your hired professional should be college educated, but a fresh graduate is still working with mostly theoretical knowledge. Instead, select an experienced architect who has the experience to guide your project well.

What Insurance Coverage Do You Have?

While architects aren’t required to have insurance, yours should have a current policy. A general policy will cover a broad range of possible incidents from clients slipping in the office to property damage at the client’s site. A professional policy will cover any mistakes the architect might make like failing to maintain build codes or deviating from the agreed upon plan. In the event of an incident, their insurance policies may fund any compensation you are entitled to so you won’t be stuck with a bill you shouldn’t have. 

What Is the Project Schedule and How Will You Communicate Progress?

If you are upgrading a commercial building, do you already have your grand opening date set? If you’re building a new home, do you have an ideal move in date? Discuss your timeline with your architect so he or she can effectively plan according to your needs.

Once that’s done, set up a communication system. Can your architect agree to respond within 24 hours? Would you prefer to communicate through email or phone? Take the time to make sure you are on the same page as far as your expectations of communication are concerned.

What Team Members Will Be Involved with the Project?

With building design, a full team is involved, even if you only communicate with the head architect. However, a team’s work is only as good as the weakest link. If your architect is working with a team, arrange a meeting so you can meet everyone who works on your project. If you think it is necessary, ask about the team’s credentials. You don’t want to work with anyone who isn’t licensed. You also don’t want to find out that your architect allows an intern to make important decisions.

Who Will Be Responsible for Making Decisions?

Ultimately, this is your property, so you should get a final say in the design. To some extent, you may have to adjust as your architect advises you on build codes and related legal regulations. However, if you want one arched doorway and another in the shape of a triangle, that should be your decision.

Establish a clean line between yourself and your architect. Understand what choices should be yours and which you should leave to an experienced professional.

Make these questions part of the conversation your have before hiring an architect.  The answers will help you select the right professional for your project and increase the chances that the project will go smoothly.
 
If you’re looking for a knowledgeable professional to answers these questions, Bill Whittaker, Registered Architect (BWA), is an accomplished architectural firm and will be happy to speak with you. Licensed in Alabama and Georgia, Bill Whittaker can assist you will commercial, public and residential projects. Visit our website to learn more about our team or call us at (256) 689-0238.