Architects‘ FAQs
This page is for architects who have registered to take part in Architect in the House in 2010.
The common questions listed here should tell you everything you need to know.
Please make sure you also check your Architect instructions, which are part of your free resource pack.
If you still have questions, please email the team at architectinthehouse@shelter.org.uk.
Client matching
How does the matching process work?
We will match you with clients according to the number of consultations you offered and the practice location details you provided when you registered. We will try to match you as closely as possible to clients in your area.
What if I’m approached directly by clients wanting to arrange a consultation?
If you are approached by a client who has not registered with the scheme, you can hold a consultation and ask them to donate directly to Shelter.
If the client has already registered with the scheme then they will be matched with an architect in their local area. Unfortunately we can’t accommodate requests for specific architects during the matching process.
I have been informed of my client matches but they have not made contact
We do ask clients to contact their architect. However, if you don’t hear from your client, feel free to contact them to arrange the appointment. Sometimes clients’ circumstances change and they no longer want to participate in the scheme – we do ask people to let us know when this happens but it’s not something we can guarantee.
I have not been matched with as many clients as I would have liked; why?
Each year Shelter and RIBA undertake a massive PR and marketing campaign to encourage sign ups – however with the current economic environment it is increasingly difficult to recruit homeowners. As the scheme has proved very popular with architects, in some areas there just aren’t enough clients to go around. We make every effort to allocate clients to architects as evenly as possible.
Client consultations
My circumstances have changed and I will not be able to take part this year
If you find you are unable to take part please let us know as soon as possible at architectinthehouse@shelter.org.uk so we can allocate your place to someone else.
How do I arrange a consultation with a client?
We ask the client to contact you to arrange the appointment, but feel free to contact them first if you prefer. (You’ll get an email from the Architect in the House team in July with your client’s contact details).
How long should a consultation last?
The consultation should last one hour and the client will know this in advance. They will also be aware that you are giving up your time for free.
What happens during the consultation?
Clients are told what a typical consultation could entail and are given examples of what their architect may advise on, including existing ideas, new design options, energy-saving, light and space ideas and even planning and building management.
Clients are also advised that it is unlikely that their architect will be able to provide a complete solution to your project in just one hour and that after the consultation, they and their architect can decide if they want to continue to work together on a commission basis.
What happens after the consultation?
At the end of your initial consultation, the client may want to continue discussions with you about their project. Please feel free to arrange further appointments with the client outside of the Architect in the House scheme.
Donations
How much should the client donate?
The client will know that the suggested minimum donation to Shelter is £40. They will have agreed to make the donation when they signed up.
How does the client donate?
Clients can donate in two ways:
- Donate online using our secure payment page, or
- Give you a cheque made payable to Shelter after their consultation. Please ensure you take the accompanying donation form from your architect pack to all your consultations so the client can donate in this way.
What do I do with donations given to me at consultations?
Please post the cheque and completed form for each donation to the address in your Architect instructions. (The address will vary according to whether you are based in Scotland or England).
How will I know if my client has already donated online?
If clients choose to donate online, they are asked to print out the confirmation email they receive at the end of the donation process. They should then show you this printout at the consultation. If the client can’t show you the printout and you would like confirmation of their donation, please email architectinthehouse@shelter.org.uk.
Promoting the scheme
How can I promote the scheme in my area?
We have provided lots of free resources to help you promote Architect in the House at work and in your local community. All of these are free to download.
If you have a promotional idea you would like to discuss, please contact architectinthehouse@shelter.org.uk
Any other questions?
If your question has not been answered here, please contact the Architect in the House team at architectinthehouse@shelter.org.uk.