Architecture Index

I am checking references on a residential architect. What specific questions should I ask the people to whom I speak?

1. How do they bill?
- is it hourly?
- is it based on the project cost as a %?
- is it a flat fee?

2. Who will be working on my project?
- one architect?
- several architects?
- experienced ones?
- project managers?
- drafters?

3. What is included in the price?
- designs?
- construction documents?
- construction administration?
- site visits?

4. What sort of issues came up on your project?
- plans drawn correctly the first time?
- clear communication with the contractors?
- were the correct materials used?

5. Did the price of the project fluctuate?

6. What accredidation does this architect have?
- are they a member of AIA?
- how much experience do they have?
- have they worked on many other projects similiar to yours?

7. Who is responsible for the subcontractors?
- do you have to find your own structural engineer / drywall hangers / painters?
- are their fees included in your quote?
- who makes sure they have up to date drawings / change orders?

8. How long did the project take?
- did it drag out over the specified time?

9. Were the people friendly and courteous?
- did they return phone calls promptly?
- did they explain any billing questions?

10. Ask the references if they considered any other architects. If they say "no" then they probably didn’t ask for references either and just used the 1st one in the phone book.

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