Find architects near me

Looking for a qualified architect near you? We're here to connect you with approved architects who can help when it comes to architectural design, planning, drawings, and project management.

Whether you're planning a home renovation, an extension, or a commercial build, here's how to find experienced architects who cover your local area.

Simple ways to find architects near you

Finding an experienced local architect needn't be stressful. We have three easy ways to connect with professional architects in your region.

1. Download the Checkatrade app

Get access to tradespeople at your fingertips. Search, chat, and book architects with ease in the Checkatrade app.

2. Use our request a quote form

Wondering how much an architect might cost or what timescales they may need? For a rough guideline, why not fill in our 'request a quote' form?

We can get your request in front of relevant Checkatrade tradespeople in your area and you can expect contact directly to your email inbox.

3. Search online for architects near you

Alternatively, enter your postcode into search tool to browse a list of reviewed architects that operate in your local area.

Why hire a professional architect?

Budgeting for architect fees as part of your project will help to ensure a well-planned, high-quality job done right:

• Expert planning: Detailed technical drawings and feasibility studies for your project

• Regulation compliance: Providing precise architectural plans for planning applications (and contractors) in line with building regulations

• Project management: Coordination with contractors to ensure your project runs smoothly

What to look for in an architect

It's important to know that, in the UK, it's illegal to refer to yourself as an architect unless you are fully qualified and registered with the Architects Registration Board.

All architects on the Architect's Register are highly qualified, appropriately insured, and adhere to the standards of the Architects Code.

On Checkatrade, you'll only find trades who meet our high standards and pass up to 12 checks.

What do architects do?

If you're planning a home renovation project, you may be wondering whether it's essential to hire an architect.

While it's not a legal requirement to hire an architect to apply for planning permission, doing so can save you time and money in the long run.

An architect will also use their creative vision and technical expertise to transform your ideas into reality. They will:

• Prepare feasibility studies and identify any possible constraints

• Produce conceptual and technical drawings and designs

• Guide you through the planning and building regulations processes

• Help with finding and choosing contractors

• Manage the contract you have with your other contractors, e.g., builders

• Certify that work has been completed

What to expect from an architect on Checkatrade

We know how important it is to find tradespeople that are appropriately skilled to do the job in hand.

That's why we only give our seal of approval to members who pass up to 12 checks and commit to upholding The Checkatrade Standard to:

• Deliver a high-quality of work

• Maintain high standards of personal conduct

• Work safely, ethically, and within their skill set

• Communicate clearly and honestly

• Agree costs and contract terms upfront

• Encourage and welcome customer reviews

Checkatrade Guarantee

We also offer a guarantee for work carried out by our members (eligibility criteria and T&Cs apply). It is there as a helping hand in the event that something goes wrong with the job.

Contact or pay a trade through Checkatrade and you’re covered by our 12-month guarantee of up to £1,000*

* Eligibility and T&Cs apply

Your questions about architectural services answered

Finding the right architect for your project is crucial. Here are a few questions to consider before making your choice of hire.

How much does an architect cost?

Costs will vary from project to project, so one of the first questions to ask your architect is about their fee structure. This could be:

• A fixed fee

• A percentage cost

• An hourly rate

It's also wise to enquire whether there are any extra costs that you should budget for.

Learn more about architect fees in our cost guide.

Does an architect need insurance?

Architects registered with the Architects Registration Board will have adequate and appropriate Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII).

This will help to put things right should you suffer loss or damage as a result of negligent services or advice given.

How do I find the right architect for my project?

Looking at an architect's credentials will help to identify their experience in particular types of work.

• Eco architects

• Architects who specialise in listed buildings

• Conservation area consent specialists

When you first connect with the architect, ask about their approach to design, modern or traditional, for example. This will help you to get a feel as to whether they're the right fit for your project.

Do I need an architect for a home extension?

It's not a legal requirement to hire an architect for a home extension, but doing so helps to ensure your extension plans are well-designed, structurally sound, and meet planning regulations.

Do I need a contract before working with a local architect?

It's recommended to get an agreement in writing to outline the scope of the work, responsibilities, and the fee structure at the very least.

What information is needed before an architect can start work?

During your initial meeting, you will have shared your project ideas with your architect, but to move things forward they may need official documentation such as proof of ownership of particular walls, or property deeds.

Help to find a local architect near me

Now that you're fully versed in the benefits of hiring a local architect, all that's left to do is find your shortlist.

• All our members are checked and approved by us, so you can be sure they meet the exacting standards you'd expect

• We check and verify every review our members receive, providing real testimonials you can believe in

Ready to find an architect for your project? Just add your postcode to the box below to start your search.