How to hire a licensed architect

Architects help with planning and design that can support building permits—especially when your project involves new construction, major additions, or changes to layout, structure, or building systems.

In the US, the exact rules vary by city and state. Some small projects may be handled by other professionals, while many permit-ready projects require licensed design work. If you’re unsure, you can describe your project and we can help you find a licensed architect who’s a good fit.

If you’d like, start here: get matched.

You usually need a licensed architect when you’re changing the built form in ways that require code-compliant design and permit drawings—such as:

• New custom homes and new structures
• Additions that expand footprint or significantly change rooms and flow
• Renovations that alter structural walls, openings, or load paths
• ADUs and other secondary dwelling units
• Commercial design, tenant improvements, or space reconfiguration

Even if your contractor can do construction, you may still need a licensed architect for the plans and permitting documents your local building department expects.

A clear hiring process reduces stress and surprises. Think in phases: you’ll share your goals, get an estimate and scope, and then agree on the plan set you want.

Typical phases you may hear about include:

• Schematic design: early layout concepts and massing options
• Design development: more detailed decisions (still not “construction-ready”)
• Construction documents: permit-ready drawings and specifications

For educational background on costs, see architect fees explained.

Before you sign anything, verify the architect is licensed in the state where the project will be built. Requirements and reciprocity rules vary, so confirm directly through your state licensing board.

Then evaluate fit. Ask for:

• Examples of similar projects (same building type and scope)
• A clear description of how they communicate and manage revisions
• Who will do the work (principal vs. team), and who you’ll contact day-to-day

We can help you find a licensed architect and make introductions, but you stay in control of the final decision. You should still review their license and the written agreement.

“Permit-ready” generally means the documents are organized and detailed enough for your local building department to review. A permit set can include architectural drawings plus related sheets that meet code requirements.

Common items include floor plans, elevations, sections, and details that show dimensions and how things connect. You may also need coordination with other disciplines (often called MEP—mechanical, electrical, and plumbing). Sometimes that coordination is handled by the architect’s team or by engineering partners.

Ask these questions early:

• What exact drawings are included in the scope?
• What is the expected permit process in your city?
• Who handles responses to plan check comments (and how are changes billed)?

Rules vary by location, so the architect should reference local expectations and help you understand the review steps.

A professional written contract protects both sides. It should explain the scope, timeline, and payment structure, and how changes are handled.

At minimum, agree on:

• Scope of services (what they will and won’t do)
• Deliverables (which plan set(s) and formats)
• Fees and how they’re billed (hourly, fixed, or phase-based)
• Revisions policy (what counts as included revisions vs. extra)
• Timeline and decision deadlines (so work doesn’t stall)
• Permit responsibilities (who submits, who responds, and what’s the change process)

Because permits and approvals depend on your local authority, we can’t guarantee outcomes—but clear documentation helps you avoid avoidable delays.

If you’re starting out, learn more from guides and then consider services to choose the right next step.