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08-03-2010 | The importance of hiring an architect

It is common to think that the role of the architect just comes down to aesthetics. Serious mistake, as the Architect is the great creator and also a facilitator for getting things done better since the first ideas to the delivery of the keys, through the planning of the work.

Planning is a basic condition to get the lowest cost and be useful to future occupants. Like any planning work begins with the architectural design, is easy to understand the importance of having an architect helping the entrepreneur since the early hours of a construction project.

The architecture is quite complex job and covers several areas such as teaching, consulting, expertise and execution of works. In the architectural design itself, the Architect is able to develop and manage projects also wiring, plumbing, sewer, gas, infrastructure and landscaping.

When engaging the services of an architect is important to be aware that, as in all professions, there are good and bad professionals, so some aspects should be considered to make a good choice:

• If you are acquiring land, you should hire a qualified professional has to give you an advice and avoid future surprises, because there are particular techniques that provide a greater or smaller cost of the work or even their economic viability, such as:

a) The topographic features that in some cases, may require retaining walls;

b) The type of subsoil that may require a special foundation;

c) the existence and height of public collectors of rainwater and sewage to the level of the land that in some cases may require pumping the future installation of sewer.

Finally, there are many technical expertise that may save you some money and avoid many hassles.

• Never choose the professional at the lower fees, as surely they will be proportionate to their experience and competence;

• Find out if the architect develops his work and meet their professional life. Good architects tend to provide their curriculum;

• Learn about the work;

• Know what services these professionals will offer. Some aspects are needed, and most of the time required, like the approval of architectural design, the projects of building installations (gas, sewer, etc.). Top performers offer all necessary services, not only to the approval of the project but also its implementation;

• Ask what are the legal requirements for project approval and execution of the work and the responsibilities to be assumed by the professional;

• Seek information from staff at the Regional Council of Engineering, Architecture and Agronomy, available in the regional CREA;

• Never hire a service without having signed a contract which must be stated clearly and in detail, everything that relates to your purpose so as not to cause any doubt as to the future mainly services to be provided, time limits, the value and payment terms;

• Keep an open dialogue with the architect. Do not hide any information and make sure to participate directly in the design and construction. Give suggestions and express your opinion - is easier and cheaper to make changes when the work is still running. Remember that the project should meet your needs and not the architect´s needs.

If some doubt still remains, compare the cost of hiring a professional in relation to the total value of the work. It represents such a small fraction, and the benefits of a well-planned project outweigh any payment made to a good professional.

By Victor Sportelli

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