How much will it cost to hire an architect and how do architects charge for their services?
Fees for architectural services will depend on the types and level of services provided for a specific project. There are a few ways in which Architectural fees are calculated. Some of these include a Fixed fee, fee per unit such as square footage, hourly fee, percentage of construction cost or a combination of these examples. In general hourly fees are used for smaller projects and projects or project phases where the scope of work is difficult to define. Fixed or per unit fees are used for projects of very definite scope. Once you have met with and discussed the project scope with your architect a specific proposal for compensation can be determined. In addition to the fee, reimbursable, or out of pockets, costs incurred during the project are charged to the Owner. These may include printing costs, long distance travel and telephone, and surveying and soils testing if required. Bills are typically submitted monthly based on the percentage of work completed.
