Hiring the right architect is key to a successful building project. Before the work begins, it’s important to ask a few clear questions. This will help you find someone with the right skills, experience, and services to match your needs and budget.
What Experience Do You Have with Similar Projects?
One of the first questions to ask is whether the architect has worked on similar projects before. For example, if you are planning an office, retail space or restaurant, it helps to hire someone who has done that type of work.
Ask how many commercial projects they’ve completed, what challenges they faced, and how they solved them. Their answers will give you insight into their problem-solving skills and understanding of commercial design. It’s also useful to know how they managed project timelines and budgets, especially if your own building project is on a tight schedule.
If the architect has worked with other businesses in your area or sector, they may already be familiar with local planning rules, which can save time and avoid delays.
Are You Fully Qualified and Registered?
Not all designers are fully qualified architects. In the UK, only those registered with the Architects Registration Board (ARB) are allowed to call themselves architects. This shows they’ve had the right training and follow professional standards.
You can also ask if they are members of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). RIBA members follow a strict code of conduct and often take part in extra training. These details help ensure you're hiring someone who takes their work seriously and keeps up with the latest ways of working.
Make sure the architect’s registration is up to date, and ask if they hold insurance—this adds another level of protection for you and your project.
What Services Do You Offer?
Architects may offer a wide range of services beyond drawings and design. Some manage the full project from start to finish. Others may only provide plans. It’s important to understand exactly what is included in the service and what is not.
Ask if their work covers planning applications, building regulation checks, 3D design models, contractor management, or site visits. These extra services can save time and stress during the project.
You should also check what stages they will be involved in and how that affects their fees. Having a clear list of services will help you compare quotes from different architects more easily and ensure your budget stays on track.
How Do You Handle Planning Permission and Building Regulations?
Planning permission and building regulations can be confusing, especially for larger commercial projects. A skilled architect will know how to handle these steps for your type of property and in your area.
Ask how they support clients through this part of the process. Can they deal with the local council on your behalf? Do they help prepare the required documents and technical drawings?
You should also ask how they stay up to date with building law changes and how they’ll ensure your project meets all safety and legal rules. Knowing they’ve done this many times before can give you peace of mind and help avoid costly delays or mistakes.
How Will We Communicate During the Project?
Every project runs better when everyone is on the same page. Good communication between you and your architect is key. Ask how often they’ll give updates and what the usual method is—email, phone calls, or face-to-face meetings.
You should also ask who your main contact will be. Will it always be the same person, or will different people be involved? This helps avoid confusion later on.
Ask for examples of how they’ve kept clients informed in past projects. Clear, regular updates can help you make quick decisions, stay within your budget, and keep the design process moving without delays. A good architect will always find ways to keep communication simple and helpful.
Are you looking for commercial architects in Sussex, Kent, Surrey and London? For experienced design and planning for office, retail or mixed developments, follow the link below.