Building or renovating in Portugal isn’t optional when it comes to hiring an architect — it’s a legal requirement for almost any construction project, and the architect leading it must be registered with the Ordem dos Arquitectos, Portugal’s official architects’ association. That single requirement trips up a lot of foreign buyers, who are often surprised to learn that even significant renovations need a licensed architect’s sign-off before the local Câmara Municipal will approve them.
That’s where our partner architect comes in.
Francisco Mascarenhas brings professional experience across both national and international markets, including work supporting retail brands expanding into the Portuguese and Spanish markets. He has developed projects across a wide range of scales — from licensing documentation through to site supervision and property inspection — and is comfortable coordinating directly with clients, suppliers, and Portuguese municipal authorities on your behalf.
Portuguese law requires a licensed architect for the design of new buildings and most renovation projects, and their involvement typically runs through three stages:
What it typically costs: Architect fees in Portugal are usually calculated as a percentage of the total construction cost, commonly in the 6–12% range, depending on project size, complexity, and how many of the above stages are included. Larger projects tend to sit at the lower end of that range; smaller or more complex renovation projects (particularly in heritage areas) tend to sit higher.
If you’re planning a renovation rather than a new build, our House Renovation guide and Construction Companies service cover the next steps once your architectural project is approved. If your project involves an older property, you may also need a Property Technical File (Ficha Técnica da Habitação) or a Habitation Permit — both of which your architect will help you obtain.
Get in touch with Francisco Mascarenhas for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Francisco Mascarenhas – Architect
For almost any new construction and most significant renovations, yes. The project must be signed off by an architect registered with the Ordem dos Arquitectos before the Câmara Municipal will issue a building permit.
Fees are typically calculated as 6–12% of the total construction cost, depending on the scope of services included — from an initial design concept through to full site supervision. Some architects also work on an hourly basis for smaller consultations or renovations, generally in the €40–100/hour range.
This varies significantly by municipality and project complexity, since each Câmara Municipal processes applications at its own pace. Your architect will manage the submission and follow-up directly, and can give you a realistic estimate once your specific project and location are known.
Yes. Much of the design and licensing process can be handled remotely, with site visits and supervision arranged for the stages that require someone physically present.
For most projects, yes — technical specialties such as structural, electrical, and water/sewage design are typically handled by engineers registered with the Ordem dos Engenheiros, working alongside the architect. This coordination is one of the services included above.
You’ll need a habitation licence (licença de utilização) before moving in or connecting utilities. Your architect’s documentation and final inspection are part of what makes this final step possible.
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