Guide to the services offered by an interior designer

When things go wrong

If you have been actively involved in the design process, there shouldn't be any major problems with the final design.
However, if don't like the designs, tell the designer straight away. They should be willing to make adjustments. If the designer misinterpreted your wishes, they shouldn't charge you for redesigning the project. If you failed to clarify your wishes, or you simply changed your mind after the design process had finished, you will probably have to pay for a redesign. In any case, let them know before they begin to implement the design. If you wait until construction is already underway, it will cost a lot more to make changes.
Misunderstandings over costs cause the most headaches in designer-client relationships. Some interior designers always charge the full recommended retail price on materials and furnishings, while others are willing to pass on discounts offered by the supplier, charging a fee for procurement. The cost-conscious client who has painstakingly researched and compared prices from several suppliers might feel aggrieved that they are having to pay a 'middleman fee' to the designer.
To ensure this doesn't happen, make sure the designer has clarified their purchasing fees and ask for written estimates before purchases are made. Remember, not all suppliers will deal directly with the public, so you might not be able to get that bargain carpet without your designer's help.
If you feel the work carried out by a particular tradesperson is not up to scratch, you will usually have to take this up with them directly. The designer might have recommended the tradesperson and supervised their work, but they usually do not have the technical expertise to guarantee the work. Unless the designer hired the tradesperson themselves, which is rare, they cannot be held responsible for any shoddy work.
If you have any problems with the service provided by your interior designer, you should always talk to the designer first. Most designers would never want to leave a client unhappy at the end of a project and should be willing to discuss your misgivings.
If you really feel you cannot resolve the situation privately, you can ask BIDA to put you in touch with a mediation service. If you feel that the designer has been professionally negligent, contact your solicitor for further advice.