Home design guide
Do I Need an Architect for My Residential Project?
The right design team depends on the project type, location, complexity, and local submission requirements. Confirm the required professionals before committing to a drawing scope.
Start with the project and jurisdiction
Requirements vary by state, municipality, building type, size, use, and scope. A straightforward one- or two-family home may follow a different professional-design path than a mixed-use property, multifamily building, unusual structure, or project involving a change of use.
When other professionals may be needed
A surveyor may be needed for property and site information, a professional engineer for structural or civil work, and an energy specialist for compliance documentation. An architect may be required by the applicable law or requested because the project would benefit from that professional scope.
Confirm responsibilities in writing
Before design begins, identify who will prepare each drawing, calculation, report, and permit submission. The local building department can clarify its submission checklist, while each retained professional should define the limits of their own services.
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