Where's the Architect?

There seems to be some major misunderstanding in South Florida for whom to contact when you want to construct/ improve a building. Architects have historically been the 'go to' professionals since the profession was formally established in the US in 1857, but times have changed.

The overwhelming majority of people here, unfamiliar with construction, go to a contractor or "Designer" first. With today's focus on the economy and everyone squeezing dollars from all angles, it's no wonder that people go to a contractor first because contractors know construction pricing best. However, contractors are not professionally trained or licensed to design floor plan layouts, select lighting or finishes and cannot legally draw-up, sign and seal a set of plans. In addition, South Florida has a proliferation of unlicensed "Designers" who not only advertise in magazines and online, but also offer floor plan layouts, select lighting and finishes and even provide cad plans and renderings, almost all of which is totally illegal under Florida Statute 481.

So where's the Architect? Historically, architects have always been the "prime" on a project and directed the design and managed the team. New building delivery methods and the economic crisis have significantly changed this tradition. Architects have been essentially 'squeezed' out of the profession, or in the case where a contractor is unable to complete a job under the radar and requires municipal building permits, then they will bring-on an architect, sadly and solely, for the purposed of permit drawings. Unlicensed "Designers" have also contributed to the squeeze; and the public has no clue that it's illegal for a an unlicensed "Designer" to provide these services.

It truly has become the architect's job to educate the public now. We truly need to take back control of our profession. Here's a basic checklist that I've been posting on our social media sites to help educate the public about architects.

Construction Check List:

1. Always hire your Architect first. Architect's are typically "prime" on the project and direct your design. Hire the Architect before the Contractor to avoid major mishaps and achieve a quality product.

2. Is your Architect or Designer a Licensed Professional in your State? Note that it is illegal for an unlicensed "Designer" to lay out architectural plans in Florida - including Schematic Design and Design Development. Unlicensed professionals do not carry Liability Insurance and you might be getting plans that do not conform to the Florida Building Code and Florida ADA Laws. Be very careful and always ask for your professional's license number.
3. Architectural and Interior Design fees are negotiable. Don't sign any agreement you don't like.
4. Is your General Contractor licensed in your State?

Best wishes, 

CCSArchitect

www.ccsarch.com