How to choose an architect in France: 8 checks

1. Registration with the Ordre des architectes

"Architecte" is a protected title in France: only people on the Ordre's register may use it. Check in seconds on the Ordre's official directory, by name, town or registration number. An unregistered graduate may not call themselves an architect, only state their degree ("titulaire du diplôme d'architecte" followed by its abbreviation).

"DPLG" (awarded until 2007) and "diplômé d'État" (since 2008) refer to the degree. To practise in their own name, a state-qualified architect also needs the HMONP licence, and must then register with the Ordre.

2. This year's insurance certificate

Every architect must carry professional liability insurance, which covers in particular the 10-year guarantee (garantie décennale). Ask for the current year's certificate: the law requires it to be attached to the contract, and the Ordre recommends naming the insurer in it too.

3. Work similar to your project

A practice that mostly builds public facilities approaches a small extension differently from one that specialises in homes. Ask to see comparable projects that have been built, and if possible talk to former clients.

4. Real attention to your brief and budget

At the first meeting, a good architect asks about how you live, your plot and your budget before proposing shapes, and tells you frankly if the budget looks too tight.

5. A written mission and fee

A written contract is compulsory before the mission starts. It sets out the stages entrusted (up to the permit, or up to handover), the fees, the payment schedule and the cost estimate. Compare proposals for the same mission (see architect fees and the architect contract).

6. Close to the site

A local architect knows the local rules, the planning office and the region's builders, and gets to the site more easily. The full directory lists practices town by town.

7. Availability and timing

Ask when the project can start, who will follow it day to day in the practice, and how often site meetings will take place.

8. A working relationship

You will take dozens of decisions together. Clear explanations, responsiveness and how your comments are taken into account matter as much as the style of their buildings. If French is not your first language, ask whether the practice can work in English.