How to hire the best building designer near you

When you're building a new home or making alterations, it's essential that the design process is carried out as well as possible. This is where a professional building designer can help you.

Make sure you choose the best local designer for your budget by comparing quotes and profiles on hipages. Only trusted tradies are listed on our platform, and customer star ratings and verified recommendations make it easy to find reputable services in your area.

A building designer in Australia is not required to register as an architect. They are normally professionals such as draftspeople that have registered as building designers. Find out more about who you need for your project by reading our guide: Architect or building designer?

© Arcadia Building Design

Why might you need to hire a building designer?

Building designers can help you across many stages of your building or renovation project. Their services include:

• Assessing your site (views, privacy, site access, the location of neighbours, the position of the sun, etc.)
• Liaising with your local council to gain planning permission, building approvals and submit any other documents the council may require
• Preparing a design concept and preliminary design in line with your needs and budget
• Preparing working drawings and specifications for builders and other tradies
• Creating artist's impressions of buildings or extensions as required
• Keeping you updated on the project's progress and any issues

Building designers create extremely detailed plans. Everything needs to be included, from the timber and structural components to be used right down to specifics such as what door handles should be used. This is so that builders and other tradies are able to give you exact quotes and to make sure nothing essential is missed out.

Designing a building is about more than just drawing up a set of plans. Building sites have unique risks and a building designer will be able to minimise any problems associated with the site while maximising its potential.

© IQ Homes

How much does a building designer cost?

Like architects, building designers typically charge based on a percentage of the total cost of a construction or renovation project, although a building designer is usually cheaper.

The average building designer cost in Australia is around 6% of the total project cost, though this can vary depending on the level of service needed. This may range from 5% for basic services to 7.5% for a full-service offering or a larger project.

Questions to ask when hiring a building designer

When choosing a building designer, there are some important things to consider besides the cost. You should ask to see:

• Their qualifications
• Their portfolio of similar design work
• References from previous customers (if possible)
• Whether they hold professional indemnity insurance

Finally, ask what fees they charge for their services and obtain a written contract so that no hidden charges can arise in the future.

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Costs and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces.