Architect, designer or engineer: who do you need?

Each role does a different job and carries different legal responsibility. Choose by what your project and jurisdiction require.

The roles

• Architect: licensed professional who designs buildings for use, safety and code compliance, and coordinates other consultants.
• Building designer or drafter: prepares drawings, often for simple residential work. Rules on what they may sign differ by place.
• Structural engineer: designs the structure and foundations and calculates loads.
• Other engineers: civil, mechanical, electrical, plumbing and geotechnical.

When each is needed

Many jurisdictions require a licensed architect or engineer to seal drawings above a certain size or use, and allow a designer for small residential. Ask the AHJ what is required for your building type before you hire.

Questions before hiring

• Licensed where? Verify the licence with the board.
• Experience with this building type and system, for example steel framing.
• What is included: concept, permit drawings, construction administration?
• Who coordinates the engineers?
• Insurance carried.

Scope and fees

Agree scope in writing. Typical contract forms exist from the AIA, and fees can be a fixed sum, a percentage or hourly. Do not assume site visits are included.

Offsite and prefab

For prefab, the factory may supply engineering for its system but a designer of record may still be needed for the site and permit. Clarify early; see design-to-delivery handoffs.

Quick answers

• Can I build without an architect? Often for small residential, depending on local rules. Ask the AHJ.
• Do I need a structural engineer? Commonly yes for foundations and non-prescriptive structures. Check locally.
• How do I check a licence? Use the licensing board for the place where the professional is registered; NCARB lists architect registration resources.

Rules differ by country, state and city. Confirm requirements with your local authority having jurisdiction and with the licensed professionals on your project; nothing here is legal, engineering or financial advice.

Questions people ask

Can I build without an architect?

Often for small residential, depending on local rules. Ask the AHJ.

Do I need a structural engineer?

Commonly yes for foundations and non-prescriptive structures. Check locally.

How do I check a licence?

Use the licensing board for the place where the professional is registered; NCARB lists architect registration resources.

Sources and further reading

• American Institute of Architects
• NCARB

Text Digital Oro

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