Free Architect Invoice Template & Generator
Generate architecture invoices for design services, construction documents, and project management. Bill by phase, percentage, or hourly.
From
To
Logo
Signature
Live Preview
Thank you for your business
What to include on a Architect invoice
Your invoices need to tie back to your contract phases. Include the project name and address, the specific phase you're billing for (schematic design, design development, construction documents, etc.), and the percentage of that phase completed. Accountants will ask which scope item from your original agreement this covers, so reference that. If you're billing hourly, break down time by who did the work and their rate. For reimbursables, attach receipts for anything over fifty dollars.
Most architects bill monthly based on percentage completion of each phase. You should get a retainer up front, usually 10-20% of the total fee. Bill at the end of each month for work completed during that period. Net 30 is standard, though smaller clients might need Net 15 to keep them paying attention. Don't wait until a phase is done to bill the whole thing. Cash flow dies that way.
Send invoices on the same day every month, ideally the first or second. Clients get used to seeing it and their accounting departments build you into their payment cycles. The biggest mistake is letting reimbursables pile up for months and then hitting the client with a surprise four-figure expense report. Bill them monthly with your fees.
Frequently asked questions
How do architects typically bill for services?
Architects commonly charge a percentage of construction cost (8–15%), hourly ($100–$300+), or fixed fee by project phase. Residential projects typically use fixed fees; commercial uses percentage-based.
What are the standard billing phases for architecture?
The five standard phases are: schematic design (15%), design development (20%), construction documents (40%), bidding (5%), and construction administration (20%) of the total fee.
Should architects bill for reimbursable expenses?
Yes. Printing, travel, permit fees, consultant fees, and 3D renderings are typically billed as reimbursable expenses at cost plus 10–15%. List these separately on your invoice.