ACRE & ANGLE
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Hiring & matching 6 min read

Questions to ask before you hire a design professional

A practical interview list covering experience, process, fees, team, and red flags — so you can compare firms fairly.

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Good interviews are structured. Ask the same core questions of each firm so you can compare answers, not vibes.

Experience and fit

  • What similar projects have you completed in the last three years?
  • Who will be my day-to-day contact?
  • Have you worked in this jurisdiction before?

Process and timeline

  • What phases do you use, and what decisions happen in each?
  • How do you handle changes after drawings start?
  • What is a realistic timeline for a project like mine?

Fees and value

  • How do you structure fees (fixed, hourly, percent of construction)?
  • What is included vs additional services?
  • How do you coordinate engineers and consultants?

FAQ

How many firms should I interview?
Two or three well-matched firms is usually enough if your brief is clear.
Should I share my budget?
Yes, as a band. Serious professionals use it to propose viable scope — not to take advantage.
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