Introduction The practice of a Certified Interior Designer Must I hire a Certified Interior Designer? Frequently asked questions Making your decision Design fees and project funds How to find a Certified Interior Designer Evaluate your project Your design services agreement Construction & installation Problems with your project? How to file a complaint Complaint form Code of Ethics The Law About CCIDC

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San Marcos, CA 92078
Phone: 760-761-4734 / Fax:760-761-4736
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California Council for Interior Design Certification
The standard for interior designers in the State of California
“Public Protection Through Examination and Certification”

Consumer’s Guide to
Hiring a Certified Interior Designer

INTRODUCTION                                                            
Are you thinking about hiring an interior designer? Individuals and businesses in California who want to create or remodel a safe and comfortable environment for their home or place of work usually hire Certified Interior Designers for space planning,  interior design, selection of furnishings, custom cabinetwork design, finish selection, observation of the construction and supervision of the installation for their projects.


The California Council for Interior Design Certification (CCIDC) certifies more than 3,500 interior designers in California to protect the health, safety and welfare of the public by ensuring the professional performance of those designers they certify.

Because of the detailed and specialized nature of interior design work, questions about services or misunderstandings may arise between the consumer and the designer about plans, specifications, schedules, budgets, and the quality of the proposed services. The CCIDC “Consumer's Guide to Hiring a Certified Interior Designer” will help you understand Certified interior design services and to prevent any problems from occurring by providing:

• Why you should hire a designer that is certified by the CCIDC.
• How to find and select a Certified Interior Designer
• The Most Common Mistakes People Make When Hiring an Interior Designer
• The Difference between a decorator and an interior designer
• What the written agreement between you and your Certified Interior Designer should contain, and
• Information on the budgeting and construction for your project.

If you have a problem with your Certified Interior Designer, even after following the information in this guide, instructions and a form for filing a complaint are included. By carefully planning and thoroughly discussing your project beforehand with your Certified Interior Designer, you will hopefully avoid having to take this step.

We hope this guide will help you understand what a Certified Interior Designer is and how he/she can help you create an environment that is healthy, safe and attractive.