Choose an architect with a clearer understanding of the services, people, fees, and decisions involved. Use this free checklist to prepare for interviews, record answers, and compare written proposals.
How to use the checklist
Complete one copy for each architect you interview. Record the project, firm, contact, and interview date.
Ask the same core questions so you can compare answers fairly. Add questions specific to your site, building, and priorities.
Request examples and clarify what is included, excluded, or still uncertain. Record follow-up items instead of relying on memory.
Compare proposed services alongside the fee. Resolve important questions in writing before making your selection.
Download the PDF and save a separate copy for each firm. Use a PDF reader that supports fillable forms, then save and reopen your copy to check your answers. Choose the Word version if you need longer responses or extra questions. You can also print either version.
Questions to ask an architect
Project fit and experience
What similar projects have you completed, and what challenges did you resolve?
What do you see as the main opportunities and constraints in my project?
Which early information or studies would you need before confirming the scope?
What experience do you have with this location and its approval process?
Who would lead my project, and how much time would that person spend on it?
Can you provide relevant work examples and references I may contact?
Services and project team
Which design phases and deliverables are included in your proposed services?
Which services are excluded or offered separately, including construction administration?
Which consultants are needed, who hires them, and who coordinates their work?
Who is responsible for surveys, existing-condition information, and field measurements?
How do you develop options, gather my feedback, and document design approvals?
Who will prepare the permit submission, respond to review comments, and coordinate revisions?
Fees, budget, and schedule
How is your fee calculated, and what scope and assumptions does it cover?
What expenses, consultant fees, taxes, or other charges are outside that fee?
What can trigger additional services, and how are those services priced and authorized?
How will you track the project budget and respond if estimates exceed it?
What are your availability, likely milestones, and expected decision deadlines?
What are the billing schedule and payment terms, and how are project pauses handled?
Communication and construction
How often will we meet, who is my main contact, and how are decisions recorded?
How will you help with contractor selection, bidding, and clarification of proposals?
If construction services are included, what site visits and reviews will you provide?
How will RFIs, submittals, proposed changes, and payment applications be handled?
What documents will I receive, in which formats, and what use or reuse terms apply?
Who is responsible for professional services, applicable licensure, and insurance coverage?
References and selection
What do past clients say about communication, follow-through, budget discussions, and changes?
Can the architect explain an example where the project scope or budget had to change?
Does the written proposal match the services, team, fees, and assumptions discussed?
Which questions must be resolved in writing before I decide?
After each interview
Summarize the firm’s strengths, your concerns, information still needed, and the next action with a target date. Record the reason for your selection so the decision reflects project fit and the proposed services as well as price.
Keep the completed checklist with the proposal and your project notes. Confirm unresolved terms directly with the architect.