WhIch Professional Should I Hire?
Registered Architects and Professional Architectural Designers (PAD) can effectively provide the same services with a few significant differences.
PROFESSIONAL ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNERS (PAD)
Advantages
Less expensive than a Registered Architect
Can Design
Residential Structures
Commercial Structures (with limitations)
Public Buildings (with limitations)
Apartment Buildings (with limitations)
All projects where a Registered Architect is not required
Cannot Design
Projects requiring a Registered Architect and Seal
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REGISTERED ARCHITECTS
"Seal" or stamp their plans (if this is required for your project).
A Registered Architect can design all types of buildings
Registered Architects are generally considerably more expensive than a PAD.
Follow the Chart below and see if your project can be performed by a Professional Architectural Designer, or if it requires a Registered Architect.
Projects "EXEMPT FROM ARCHITECTURAL ACT" May Be Performed By a
PROFESSIONAL ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER.
ALWAYS VET BEFORE YOU HIRE!!!
Regardless of which professional your project requires, we always recommend that you vet your Registered Architect and/or Professional Architectural Designer and learn their experience in construction as well as references. Oftentimes you may find that a candidate does not have the construction experience you may find preferable to assist you with your project design.
Follow the Chart below and see if your project can be performed by a Professional Architectural Designer, or if it requires a Registered Architect.
Projects "EXEMPT FROM ARCHITECTURAL ACT" May Be Performed By a
PROFESSIONAL ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER.