Our Recommendations

• Choose an architect that has designed churches. An architect with experience working on churches has valuable knowledge that other architects may lack.
• Make sure your architect addresses lighting, sound, heating, cooling, and parking issues when designing your project.
• If an architect has not worked in your city previously, make sure that the architect investigates local planning requirements. Different geographic areas have different requirements, so it is important that your architect takes the time to become familiar with requirements that could affect your project.
• Make sure your architect investigates and resolves issues of traffic flow, turning lanes, utility hook-up, and any other issues with neighborhood impact. Access to the property (driveways) must meet local ordinances.
• Don't incur architectural costs until you've determined your borrowing capacity. This will prevent you from spending thousands of dollars on architectural plans that you may not be able to use.
• Choose a contractor experienced in building churches of similar type and size.
• Ask for references and check them closely. Find out if the project was completed on time and on budget.
• Ideally, find a contractor experienced with local building and environmental codes.
• Although Bank of the West rarely requires a Performance Bond, ask your contractor if he is bondable, and for what dollar amount. It is preferable to use a contractor that can qualify for a performance bond.

ChurchPlaza's Endorsed Architects and Builders

Call 1-800-927-6775 for more information.