Trust Checklist before hiring an Interior Designer
A Practical Trust Checklist for Homeowners
(Use this checklist before committing to any designer — including us.)
1. Design Scope Clearly Defined Before Payment
Before paying the design fee, is it clearly stated what is included in the design scope, such as:
• Concept / 3D visualisations
• Working / executable drawings (plans, elevations, sections, details)
✔ Knowing whether the scope includes only 3Ds or also execution-ready drawings is critical.
2. Design Is a Separate Professional Service
Is design treated as an independent professional service, not loosely bundled with execution or
vendors?
✔ Professional brands separate design thinking from site execution.
3. Lump-Sum Design Fee (Industry Norm)
Across most professional interior brands, design is charged as a lump sum once scope and timelines
are finalised.
Check if the lump sum clearly includes:
• Number of rooms
• Type of drawings (3Ds and/or working drawings)
• Number of revisions
• Design timelines
• What qualifies as a scope change
✔ Lump-sum design works best when expectations are locked upfront.
4. GST & Tax Clarity
Is it clearly mentioned whether GST is included or excluded in the design fee, and is a proper tax
invoice provided?
✔ Tax clarity avoids last-minute surprises.5. Revision Policy Clearly Documented
Is the number of design revisions included clearly mentioned in writing?
✔ This avoids friction later.
6. Trackable Design Timelines
Are design timelines shared so you know what you’ll receive and when?
✔ Predictable timelines build confidence.
7. Ownership of Design Deliverables
Once the design fee is paid, do you own the design deliverables and have the flexibility to execute
with any vendor?
✔ Ownership ensures control.
8. Requirement-Discovery Process
Does the designer follow a structured process to understand your requirements before starting
design, such as:
• Detailed questionnaires
• Style, lifestyle, and usage discussions
• Budget and priority alignment
✔ Good design starts with understanding, not assumptions.
9. Design & Material Approvals Before Execution
Before execution begins, are all designs, drawings, and material specifications shared for your
approval, so you:
• Know exactly what will be built
• Approve finishes, materials, and specifications
• Avoid surprises during execution
✔ Clear approvals protect both time and budget.
10. Exact Execution Quote After Design (No Escalations)
Is the final execution quotation shared only after designs and materials are approved, so:
• Quantities are accurate
• Specifications are final
• Pricing is locked
✔ This helps avoid mid-project cost escalations.
11. Execution Contract (If You Proceed)
If you choose to go ahead with execution, is there a formal written contract covering:
• Approved scope and drawings
• Materials and specifications
• Payment milestones
• Timelines and responsibilities
✔ A signed contract protects both the homeowner and the brand.
12. Secure Payment Process
Is the design fee collected through the brand’s official website using a secure payment gateway,ensuring:
• Safe and encrypted transactions
• Proper documentation and invoicing
• Transparency from day one
✔ Established brands avoid informal payment methods.
13. Communication & Review Process
Is there:
• A single point of contact or assigned team?
• A defined process for feedback and revisions?
✔ Clear communication prevents misalignment.
14. Social Proof & Online Presence
Have you reviewed the designer’s Instagram, website, or social media profiles for:
• Project work
• Client testimonials
• Process transparency
✔ Consistent online presence reflects credibility.
If you would like to discuss your requirements with us, you can reach out at +91-9899709506.