An architect is a professional person registered as such – in terms of the Architectural Professions Act – responsible for the design, documentation and supervision of the construction of buildings.
 
In terms of this Act, those involved in the architectural profession are required by law to be registered with the South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP). This includes draughtsmen, architectural technologists, and senior architectural technologists, who are registered in their respective categories and for whom limitations on architectural work are prescribed.
 

Draughtsmen and technologists who undertake architectural work outside of these prescriptions, and/or refer to themselves as architects, are fraudulently representing themselves and can be criminally prosecuted.

An architect doesn’t merely draw up plans, and though important, plans are just a part of the building process. (See: What is the standard service of an architect?) Think carefully before you engage anyone – architect or draughtsman – to just draw plans, as a cost-saving exercise. This leaves you responsible for the management and the success of the building, which may have serious cost consequences. The architect’s role is to design and supervise construction of buildings on your behalf, protecting you from possible pitfalls.
 
They ensure a high standard of design and detail, and are responsible for the building being properly constructed according to good building practice, resulting in peace-of-mind, design excellence and protection of and a greater return on your financial investment.

The full standard service consists of several stages:

1. The brief: formulation of information by receiving, appraising and reporting on your requirements.
2. Concept design: creating a design concept for your approval.
3. Design development: further developing the design in the form of drawings and plans for your approval.
4. Technical & tender documentation: the formulation of drawings and plans for submission to the local authority* and to obtain offers from contractors for the execution of the work. (*Some clients opt for partial appointment which terminates hereafter.)
5. Contract administration: convening regular site meetings and visits to inspect works to ensure specification and quality, and responsibility for certifying contractors’ payments and assisting in monitoring progress and cost control.

The standard full service fees are calculated as a percentage of the final building cost. A recommended fee scale, published in terms of the Government Gazette and regularly updated, can be down-loaded from the SACAP website www.sacapsa.com
 
The partial standard service fees (up to submission of drawings to the local authority), are normally calculated pro rata.
 
This is the recommended fee scale and can vary according to the complexity and nature of the project and must be agreed upon before an architect is appointed.
 
Fees for supplementary and additional services are normally charged, by agreement, at an hourly rate, or for a fixed fee. (See: What else can an architect be appointed for?)

You should meet with prospective architects to discuss the project and your requirements in detail, view their portfolios, and obtain contactable references. They should then advise you how they work and how they would proceed on the project.
 
Depending on the nature of the project, the working relationship can extend over several years, and it’s important that both parties feel comfortable.
 
If you wish to appoint them, and they’re willing to accept the appointment, first agree to the structure of fees. Then ask to complete the standard Client/Architect Agreement (for private sector use), as recommended by the South African Institute of Architects. It’s a legally binding document which clearly outlines the role and responsibilities of both parties.

In addition to the standard service, an architect can be appointed for a variety of other services. These include site selection, measuring and documenting existing conditions, feasibilities, inspections and reports, quality control, services concerning disputes, litigation and expert witness testimony, as well as interior design, including the selection and procurement of fittings and furniture.
 
The fees for these services vary according to the nature of the work and should be agreed upon before any work commences.