Where to go to find a designer, with a handy checklist to
help you choose the best person for the job. Also, professional
indemnity insurance – why this is important.
What type of designer will you choose?
A home designed by an architect often has a
perceived value-added factor. If it stands out as being individual, it
will typically attract a higher resale price than others of the same
size and age. However, it should be noted that many architectural designers are equally capable of producing distinctive and innovative design solutions.
Many architects and architectural designers prefer to carry out a
substantial role in the management of the project, as they will have a
keen interest in seeing their designs faithfully followed by the
builder and subcontractors.
This ‘management’ role is known as contract administration. It
involves monitoring the construction to ensure the building develops
consistent with the design, handling builder and client queries during
construction, discussing and approving variations to the contract, and
assessing and approving progress payments and inspection upon
completion. Some designers may not be able to offer comprehensive contract administration.
The choice of designer will probably come down to how much money you
want to spend. But it can be a mistake to stint on the design phase.
Opting for a less experienced or qualified person may cost you in the
long run. If money is really tight, a skilled architect/designer should
be able to explore ways to make your budget and ideas fit.
You need to be confident the person you choose understands the Building Code requirements
and the need for good materials and construction methods to avoid
problems like leaky buildings. A good designer will be able to advise
you on the type of design and materials most suited for your new home
and the site you have chosen. You may have to re-think or discuss the
design to avoid high-risk weather tightness features in the design.
It is advisable to use a member of a design profession experienced
in working on the design and detailings of buildings. They should be
able to provide you with an appropriate design, a detailed contract and
guide you through the consent process.
Finding the right person
Once you have chosen your preferred type of
designer, it is time to find the person. Personal recommendation sare a
good way to find someone, or else ask these professional organisations
for a list of their members:
You can also use the Register of licensed practitioners
to check if your Designer is a Licensed Building Practitioner. Choosing
a licensed practitioner provides you with an assurance that the
practitioner has shown they have the skills, knowledge and experience
to meet government-backed national standards.
Also browse the web – most architects and design firms showcase
their designs online. Work out the design style that appeals to you.
From 1 November 2007 you will be able to access a public electronic
register for names of design professionals who are licensed.
Once you have a list, ask around to see if anyone you know has used
them. Try to find out what they were like to work with. It is very
important to find a person you can communicate your ideas to and feel
that they are listening.Avoiddesigners who appear more interested in
showcasing the latest design fad than designing to your needs.
Source
For more information on this topic visit www.consumerbuild.org.nz
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