How to hire an architect in Bilbao and Bizkaia

Why is it important to hire an architect in Bilbao and Bizkaia?

An architect is not just a draftsman, but an indispensable ally who will accompany you throughout the entire process of your project, from the initial conception to the final delivery. Their experience and knowledge will allow you to:

• Obtain a functional and aesthetic design that suits your needs and budget.
• Comply with all the regulations and urban planning regulations.
• Manage permissions and licences necessary.
• Manage aid and subsidies of the Basque Government
• Close cooperation in the search for construction company.
• Overseeing the execution of the workWe guarantee quality and compliance with deadlines.
• Save time and money long-term, thanks to their expert vision and problem-solving skills.

Steps to hire an architect in Bilbao and Bizkaia

1. Define your project and needs

Before you start looking for an architect, it is essential that you are clear about the type of project you want to carry out: is it a renovation, a new construction, or perhaps an extension? Also define your needs, budget and deadlines. Having this information will help you to communicate better with your potential architect and to assess whether he/she is suitable for your project.

2. Do your research and choose the right architect.

Initial search

You can start your search for architects in Bilbao and Bizkaia in several ways:

• Personal recommendationsAsk friends, family or colleagues if they know any architects you trust.
• InternetSearch online with keywords such as "hire an architect in Bilbao" or "hire architectural firm in Bizkaia". Visit the websites of architectural firms and check their projects and client reviews.

Evaluation of candidates

Once you have an initial list of candidates, review their previous work. See if they have experience on projects similar to yours and if their style aligns with your tastes. Don't hesitate to ask for references.

3. Kick-off meeting and work proposal

First meeting

Arrange a meeting with the selected architect. At this meeting, you will be able to:

• Submit your projectExplain your ideas and needs. Bring all the material you consider necessary (sketches, examples of similar projects, regulations, documentation related to the project...).
• Meet the architectEvaluate his or her experience and your relationship with him or her. Projects often last several months or even years, so you will be building a long-lasting professional relationship and the human aspect is important.
• Discuss budget and timelines: Speaks about the estimated costs and the time of execution of the project.

Work proposal

After the meeting, the architect will send you a work proposal which will include:

• Project descriptionSummary of the project to be carried out (house, farmhouse renovation, commercial premises...).
• Scope of servicesDetails of the services to be provided by the architect (execution project, project management, health and safety coordination, administrative procedures, etc.).
• Architect's feesCost of professional architectural services, which can vary between 7-12% of the Material Execution Budget. The cost varies according to the project and payments are made in several phases.
• Payment phasesThe phases of payment also vary according to the architect and the project; the renovation of a shop is not the same as the renovation of a block of flats. An example would be as follows: 10% on signature of the contract, 30% on delivery of the basic project, 30% on delivery of the execution project, 15% for the project management, 15% on delivery of the Final Certificate of Work.
• DeadlinesApproximate project execution time.

4. Revision of the contract

Before signing the contract, carefully review each clause. Make sure the contract includes:

• Project detailsClear specifications of what is to be done.
• Costs and paymentsPayment structure and any additional costs.
• Approximate deadlinesStart and end dates of the project.
• Liabilities and guaranteesRoles and responsibilities of each party, as well as guarantees on the work carried out.

5. Signing of the contract and start of the project

Once you are satisfied with the contract, proceed to sign it. This document formalises the agreement between you and the architect and starts the project. From here, the architect will be in charge of developing all the project documentation, managing the necessary permits and supervising the work. If you want to see the 10 steps to follow for the construction of a home, click here.

6. Monitoring and communication during the project

Maintain fluid communication with your architect throughout the process. Hold regular meetings to review progress and resolve any questions or problems that arise. Good communication ensures that the project stays on track and meets your expectations.

Additional tips for hiring an architect

• Make sure the architect is registered.. This guarantees that the projects will be able to be approved by the corresponding Architects' Association (in Bizkaia COAVN), in compliance with state regulations. In addition, you will ensure that they have the necessary training and experience to develop your project in a professional and responsible manner.
• Check whether the architect has liability insurance.. This will protect you in case of unforeseen events during the construction work.

Conclusion

Hiring an architect in Bilbao and Bizkaia may seem a complex task. But with this simple guide you will be able to find the right professional for your project. If you need more information or consultancy with your project, do not hesitate to contact us through the form ↓