The title ‘Architect’ is protected by law and is reserved for use by those that have the appropriate qualifications and professional experience. Typically this will have involved 5-7 years of study including a period of practical training as a minimum. All Architects are registered by the Architects Registration Board (ARB). This is a public register accessible here:
http://www.arb.org.uk/register-of-architects
Please do search the register to confirm that your chosen Architect is correctly registered.
Other titles not including the word ‘Architect’ can be used by anyone. This does not necessarily mean they are inferior, just that they do not meet the requirements set out by the ARB. Architects are required to maintain Professional Indemnity Insurance and meet other standards that are there to safeguard Clients. Please refer to the ARB website if you want more detail of how the ARB looks after the interests of consumers when hiring an Architect.
Other Articles About Commissioning and Briefing An Architect
Engagement
What can I expect to pay? (article coming soon)
Briefing
How do I brief my Architect? (article coming soon)
What is the best way to communicate my thoughts? (article coming soon)
The title ‘Architect’ is protected by law and is reserved for use by those that have the appropriate qualifications and professional experience.
