Architects are legally required to place the Owner’s best interest above all else, regardless of what is written in the contract. Contractors, drafters, and designers are not legally obligated to do so.

During the construction phase (if contracted to do so), the Architect acts as the Owner’s representative; answering questions, approving contractor submitted pay applications, reviewing material and design submittals, ensuring the work is completed in conformance with the contract documents, and verifying change orders, among others. On average, projects designed by Architects have fewer questions in the field, fewer cost overruns, and result in a better end project.

Architects are a multi-disciplinary coordinator, acting as a hub for all the disciplines to come together. As such, Architects must be knowledgeable in almost every facet of design, from civil and structural engineering to sustainability, water mitigation, fire hardening approaches, and beyond. Being well rounded and well-informed in all areas of building design is a requirement of being a licensed architect.

Architects are a multi-disciplinary coordinator, acting as a hub for all the disciplines to come together. As such, Architects must be knowledgeable in almost every facet of design, from civil and structural engineering to sustainability, water mitigation, fire hardening approaches, and beyond. Being well rounded and well-informed in all areas of building design is a requirement of being a licensed architect.

As one of the learned professions, architecture requires extensive knowledge and supervised practical training in construction techniques, materials science, problem solving, site design, human behavior, and history, among others. All in addition to “design”. Like attorneys, accountants, and medical professionals, Architects are also required to take national and state exams to prove they are knowledgeable and capable to practice professionally. Additionally, Architects must take continuing education coursework to maintain licensure. These requirements do not extend to contractors, designers, and drafters for design services.

• The earlier design decisions are made and locked, the fewer cost overruns there will be in construction. Changes during construction (change orders) typically cost a minimum of 10% more than in design.

• A properly documented, coordinated, and well thought out design saves money and time in construction and beyond. In or out of the warranty period, fixing errors years in the future caused by faulty or missing detailing and incorrect installation is a headache no one wants.

• Be it roof drainage or leaky windows, water damage in dry climates is still a concern which needs to be addressed properly in design.

• Professional credentials should be verified. An individual must be licensed by a state or federal architecture board in order to legally call themselves an Architect. Contractors must be licensed and bonded in California for work valued over $1,000. This can be verified through the California Architects Board at cab.ca.gov and Contractors State License Board at cslb.ca.gov.