Hiring Design Professionals

When building a new home, selecting the right design professionals is essential to ensure your project is safe, functional, compliant with regulations, and aligns with your vision. Below is a breakdown of the design professionals you may need, why they are important, and when you might hire a licensed professional.

Design Professionals:

• Architect: These professionals design, document, and guide your building project. They are licensed and will know how to comply with local codes and regulations.

  • Verify Their License

• Engineers: There are many types of engineers, and which ones you work with depends on your specific project. Follow direction from your architect on who to hire.

  • Types: Civil, Geotechnical, MEP, Structural, Title 24

  • Verify Their License

• Land Surveyors: Measure and map the property boundaries, elevations, and features of the site.

  • Verify Their License

• Contractors: Builds the project and is responsible for pricing. Could be brought on early in a Design Build or be brought on in the Bidding Phase.

  • Verify Their License

• Interior Designers: Focus on the interior layout, materials, finishes, and furnishings to create a functional and beautiful living space.

  • Do not need to be licensed

• Landscape Architects: Design outdoor spaces, including gardens, patios, driveways, and fire-resistant landscaping.

  • Verify Their License

  • Landscape Designers do not need license with architect’s stamp

Why Hire Licensed Professionals?

1. Compliance with Laws:

   • Local building departments often require plans and calculations signed by licensed professionals to issue permits.

2. Safety and Expertise:

   • Licensing ensures the professional meets strict standards for technical knowledge, ethics, and experience.

3. Insurance and Liability:

   • Licensed professionals carry liability insurance, which protects you from potential errors or negligence.

4. Increased Value:

   • Professionally designed and engineered homes typically have higher resale value due to their quality and safety.

Which Professionals Do You Need for a Typical Home Project?

For a standard single-family home, you will likely need:

1. Architect: To design the home and oversee the project.

2. Structural Engineer: To ensure the home’s structure is safe and sound.

3. Land Surveyor: To establish property boundaries and meet setback requirements.

4. Civil Engineer (if necessary): For lots with unique topography, drainage issues, or new utility hookups.

Optional:

• Interior Designer: For professional interior styling and finish selection.

• Landscape Architect: For creating outdoor spaces and fire-resistant landscaping.

• MEP Engineers: For custom homes with complex HVAC, plumbing, or electrical systems.
  

Other Resources:

Architect, Engineer, Contractor, Landscape Architect, and Interior Design List by Joanna Grant & NelsonDaly