Questions to Ask an Architect Before Hiring: Complete Checklist
Hiring an architect is a significant decision — the right one protects your investment, the wrong one costs you time and money. This checklist covers 30+ essential questions organized into 7 categories: credentials, experience, process, fees, communication, contract, and Ottawa-specific. Each question includes why it matters and what answers to look for. Print this page or save it to your phone before your first consultation.
You are about to spend tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars on a construction project. The person who designs that project — who decides where every wall goes, how every system connects, and whether the whole thing meets code — is your architect. Choosing the right one deserves at least as much diligence as choosing a contractor.
Yet most homeowners do not know what to ask. They look at portfolios, compare hourly rates, and hope for the best. This checklist gives you the questions to ask an architect that actually reveal whether they are the right fit — organized by what matters most and tailored to Ontario’s regulatory framework.
For context on who can legally design buildings in Ontario, see our architect vs designer guide. For what services typically cost, see our architect cost guide.
1. Credentials & Licensing
“Are you a licensed Architect or Licensed Technologist with the OAA?”
Why it matters: In Ontario, “architect” is a protected title. Only OAA-licensed professionals can legally use it. A BCIN-qualified designer can design Part 9 buildings but is not regulated by the OAA and does not carry mandatory insurance. Verify their licence in the OAA public directory.
🚩 Red flag: Cannot provide an OAA licence number but calls themselves an “architect.”
“Do you carry professional liability (errors and omissions) insurance?”
Why it matters: OAA members must carry E&O insurance — it protects you if a design error causes construction problems. BCIN designers are not required to carry it. Ask for proof of current coverage.
✅ Green flag: Proactively mentions insurance and offers to provide a certificate.
“Do you hold a Certificate of Practice?”
In Ontario, an architect or licensed technologist must hold a Certificate of Practice (or work for a holder) to offer architectural services to the public. This is the business licence for architectural practice. See our OAA licensing page for details.
2. Experience & Portfolio
“Can you show me 3–5 completed projects similar to mine?”
An architect who has done ten home additions in Ottawa knows the common challenges, the City’s review expectations, and how to avoid the pitfalls. An architect doing their first one is learning on your project.
“Have you worked in Ottawa / with the City of Ottawa permit process?”
Why it matters: Every municipality has quirks. Ottawa’s dual-bylaw transition period, grading approval requirements, and specific building permit submission procedures are unique. An architect unfamiliar with Ottawa’s system will take longer and face more revision requests.
✅ Green flag: Can name specific Ottawa neighbourhoods and zoning challenges they have navigated.
“Can I speak with 2–3 previous clients?”
References reveal how the architect communicates, handles problems, meets deadlines, and manages budget expectations. Ask references: “Would you hire them again?” and “What would you do differently?”
🚩 Red flag: Reluctant to provide references or has no completed residential projects.
“Who specifically will work on my project?”
In larger firms, the principal you interview may not be the person designing your project day-to-day. Ask who will be your primary contact — and meet them before signing.
3. Design Process & Deliverables
“Walk me through your design process from start to finish.”
A professional architect should describe clear phases — schematic design, design development, construction documents, tendering, and construction administration. If they cannot articulate a structured process, they may be winging it. See our design process guide for what each phase entails.
“What specific drawings will I receive in the final set?”
Ask for a list: site plan, floor plans, elevations, cross-sections, structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical? Our floor plans guide lists every drawing type in a residential set.
🚩 Red flag: “We’ll figure out the drawing list as we go” — you need to know what you are paying for.
“How many design revision rounds are included?”
Most contracts include 2–3 revision rounds. Additional rounds are billed at hourly rates. Knowing this upfront prevents surprise invoices and encourages you to provide focused, timely feedback.
“Will you provide 3D renderings or only 2D drawings?”
3D renderings help you visualize the design in a way 2D plans cannot. Some firms include them; others charge extra ($500–$2,000). Either way, ask up front.
“What is the estimated timeline from first meeting to permit submission?”
Typical timelines: 3–6 weeks for simple renovations, 6–12 weeks for additions, 3–6 months for custom homes. If they cannot give a timeline estimate, that is a concern.
4. Fees & Payment
“How do you structure your fees — hourly, fixed, or percentage?”
Different structures suit different projects. Fixed fees give cost certainty for defined scopes. Hourly works when scope is unclear. Percentage aligns the architect’s effort with your construction budget. None is inherently better — understand which one applies and why.
“Is structural engineering included in your fee or billed separately?”
This is the single most common source of fee confusion. Structural engineering can add $1,500–$5,000+ to the project. Some architects include it; others list it separately. Clarify before comparing quotes.
✅ Green flag: Provides an itemized breakdown showing exactly what is included vs. extra.
“What is the payment schedule?”
Standard practice: retainer at signing, then invoices tied to design phase completion. Never pay 100% upfront. Payments should correspond to delivered work.
🚩 Red flag: Demands full payment before any work is delivered.
“What triggers additional charges beyond the quoted fee?”
Common extras: additional revision rounds, scope changes after design development, additional site visits, and Committee of Adjustment applications. A good contract lists these clearly.
We Welcome Your Questions
At Architect Ottawa, we answer every question on this checklist — clearly, honestly, and in writing. Transparent pricing, defined scope, and structured process from day one.
5. Communication & Working Style
“How often will we meet or communicate during the design process?”
Expect formal design reviews at each phase milestone, plus ad-hoc communication as needed. Some architects prefer email; others use project management platforms. Match their communication style to yours.
“How do you handle disagreements about design direction?”
Your architect should advocate for good design while respecting your preferences. A professional explains why they recommend something — and ultimately defers to your informed decision. This is your home.
🚩 Red flag: “I’m the expert — you need to trust my judgment” without explanation.
“What is your typical response time for emails and calls?”
During active design phases, same-day or next-business-day response is reasonable. During construction, faster response may be needed for time-sensitive decisions. Set expectations early.
“How many projects are you working on simultaneously?”
An overstretched architect means slow turnaround and divided attention. There is no magic number, but if they have 15 active projects and a two-person team, your project may not get the attention it deserves.
6. Contract & Legal
“Will you provide a written contract before work begins?”
Every professional engagement should be governed by a written agreement defining scope, deliverables, timeline, fees, payment schedule, and termination terms. The RAIC and OAA provide standard contract templates used across Canada.
🚩 Red flag: Willing to start work on a handshake without a written agreement.
“Who owns the drawings?”
Under standard Canadian architectural contracts, the architect retains copyright. You receive a licence to use the drawings for your specific project. This is normal — but understand it before signing. Discuss ownership terms if you have specific needs.
“What happens if I need to pause or cancel the project?”
Life happens — budgets change, timelines shift. A fair contract specifies what you pay for work completed to date and any cancellation terms. Review these clauses carefully.
“Will you provide construction administration?”
CA means your architect visits the site during construction to verify the work matches the drawings. This is one of the most valuable services an architect provides — and one many homeowners skip to save money. Ask what CA includes and what it costs.
✅ Green flag: Strongly recommends CA and explains why — they want your project built correctly.
7. Ottawa-Specific Questions
These questions to ask an architect are specific to Ottawa’s regulatory environment — and they separate locally experienced professionals from those who are not:
“Are you familiar with Ottawa’s new Zoning By-law 2026-50 and the transition period?”
Ottawa is in a dual-bylaw period where the more restrictive bylaw applies. An architect unfamiliar with this may design to the wrong zoning standards. See our zoning bylaw guide.
“Do you handle the permit submission through My ServiceOttawa, or do I?”
Ottawa’s building permit portal is electronic. A good architect handles the submission, responds to examiner questions, and manages deficiency letters — taking the administrative burden off you.
✅ Green flag: “We submit, track, and respond to all City correspondence on your behalf.”
“Have you prepared drawings for projects in heritage overlay zones?”
Ottawa neighbourhoods like the Glebe, Sandy Hill, New Edinburgh, and Rockcliffe have heritage overlay zones with additional design controls. If your property is in one, your architect needs specific experience navigating the Heritage Act review process.
“Do you coordinate with the City’s Infrastructure Approvals department for grading?”
Ottawa requires a separate grading approval for many projects — especially additions and new builds. This approval runs parallel to the building permit but is reviewed by a different department. An experienced Ottawa architect knows this and plans for it.
“Are you familiar with Ontario’s SB-12 energy compliance requirements?”
Supplementary Standard SB-12 governs energy efficiency for new housing in Ontario. Every permit submission must demonstrate compliance. An architect who does not mention SB-12 when discussing a new build or major renovation has a knowledge gap. This is covered in our modern home design guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many architects should I interview?
Interview 2–3 architects. Fewer than two gives you no comparison. More than three creates decision paralysis and wastes everyone’s time. Focus on firms that specialize in your project type and have Ottawa experience.
Should the initial consultation be free?
Many firms offer a free 15–30 minute phone consultation to discuss your project and provide a general fee estimate. A more detailed site visit and feasibility assessment is typically a paid service. Both approaches are professional and reasonable.
What is the biggest red flag when interviewing an architect?
An inability or unwillingness to provide a clear, written scope of work and fee before starting. If they cannot define what you will receive and what it will cost, you will face surprises throughout the project. Transparency at the outset is the strongest indicator of a professional relationship.
Should I choose the cheapest architect?
Almost never. The cheapest quote usually means the smallest scope — fewer drawings, less detail, no construction administration. Those savings evaporate when incomplete documents generate change orders during construction. Compare scope and deliverables first, then price. See our architect cost guide for what to expect.
Can I use this checklist for a licensed technologist too?
Yes — every question on this list applies equally to licensed technologists and architects. Both are regulated by the OAA and subject to the same professional standards. The scope-of-practice limits differ, but the evaluation criteria are identical.
What should I bring to my first meeting with an architect?
Bring your project goals (what you want to achieve), a realistic budget range, inspiration images (Pinterest boards, magazine clippings, photos of homes you admire), your property survey if you have one, and any existing drawings of your home. The more prepared you are, the more productive the meeting will be.
How do I verify an architect’s OAA licence?
Search the Ontario Association of Architects online directory. Every licensed Architect and Licensed Technologist in Ontario is listed. If they are not in the directory, they are not licensed.
What if my architect and I disagree during the project?
Professional disagreement is healthy — your architect should push back on ideas that will not work structurally, financially, or aesthetically. The key is how they disagree. They should explain their reasoning, present alternatives, and ultimately respect your informed decision. The contract should include a dispute resolution process.
Should my architect recommend a contractor?
Many architects maintain a list of contractors they have worked with successfully. This is valuable — they know who builds well and who communicates effectively. However, you should still get 2–3 bids. For integrated service, consider our design-build approach.
Will Architect Ottawa answer all of these questions?
Yes — every single one, in detail, before you sign anything. We believe transparency builds trust, and trust builds great projects. Call (613) 518-3106 to start the conversation. Browse our working with an architect resource for more on what to expect.
Ready to Interview? Start With Us.
Architect Ottawa welcomes every question on this checklist. We answer them all — clearly, honestly, and in writing — before any work begins.