How to choose an Architect in South Africa

How to choose an Architect in South Africa

It can be daunting when you choose to renovate your home or to build a new house when you have to select a competent Architecture professional to guide you through the design elements of your proposed project.

Your primary concern should first be the pedigree of your chosen Architecture professional , that is, are they registered with SACAP the body that regulates architecture professionals to ensure compliance and adherence to ethics and professional standards on project delivery. This gives one both the assurance and peace of mind as well as the knowledge that there will be recourse should the chosen professional have a deficit of ethics.

Agree on the professional design fees upfront and all other associated charges that constitute part of the design and council submission process so that no awkward surprises surface along the way.

Ensure that your chosen Architect keeps you informed as the design process unfolds/progresses and that he or she adheres to the proposed project deliverables or design milestones/timelines.

The Architect should also inform you way in advance what documentation will be required from you the project or home owner or land owner to comply with the municipal Architectural drawings submission for building approvals to be granted. This should also be the case should you be building or renovating in a private residential estate where a Home Owners Association will be required to approve the plans before they are carted off to the municipality for final approvals.

Your Architect should also inform you regarding associated professionals such as structural engineer, electrical engineer or civil engineer that will/may form part of the professional technical team whose input will form part of the compliance for planning aprovals. This is critical as there are allied fees that will be incurred.