How does our church select an architect?

As you begin it is important to create realistic expectations regarding the process. Good questions help you to get a better sense of how you can work with a potential architect or builder. We have prepared some questions that you might want to ask when interviewing an architect or planner:

1) How long have you been in business?

2) What percentage of your clients involves church design?

3) May I see examples of your church design?

4) May I have references of church clients?

5) Do you have a valid Architect’s license in our state?

6) Do you carry liability insurance? What are the limits and would you be willing to participate in a project insurance program?

7) What was the actual construction cost vs. budget costs for recent projects?

8) What services do you provide during the design, bidding and construction phases?

9) What services do you propose for our project in each of the phases?

10) Will you or your employees provide these services?

11) How many personnel does your firm employ?

12) What is your fee schedule?

13) How will your fees be determined and what do they cover?

14) Can you project probable construction cost estimates?

15) If consultants (civil, geotechnical, testing, inspection, etc.) are necessary, are their fees included in your basic fee?

16) What additional costs or services do you anticipate for my project?

17) What fees will be charged for additional services and expenses?

18) Will there be a charge for redesign of the project if the project is over the initial project budget?

19) How are additional charges computed for design changes requested by us?

20) Can you meet my proposed schedule?