choosing a web designer checklist
questions to ask before hiring:
what is included in the price: hosting, domain, ssl certificate, email, content writing, ongoing maintenance. itemize everything to compare accurately.
what is not included: additional pages, revisions, ongoing updates, stock photos, custom features. know what costs extra.
how long does it take: get specific timeline from payment to site going live. factor in your response time for information and approvals.
who owns the website: you should own domain name and all content. some designers retain ownership and charge to release it.
can you edit it yourself: some systems let you make simple updates. others require designer for every change. affects ongoing costs.
what happens if designer disappears: how is site hosted, who has access, can you move it elsewhere. avoid being locked in.
red flags:
no portfolio or examples. cannot show previous work suggests inexperience.
vague pricing. "depends on requirements" without ballpark figure. suggests scope creep and overruns.
long contracts. locked in for years with penalties for leaving.
ownership retention. designer keeps domain or hosting in their name.
overselling features. talks about functionality you don't need. booking systems, membership areas, ecommerce for simple business site.
what to look for:
clear pricing structure. exactly what you get for fixed price.
realistic timeline. builds trust when delivery matches promise.
appropriate solution. suggests what you need, not what impresses.
straightforward communication. answers questions directly without jargon.
local or accessible. can reach them when you need updates or have issues.
computer web approach:
fixed price: £179 for three pages, £75 per additional page. hosting included first year.
fixed timeline: 5-7 days from payment to live site.
you own everything: domain in your name, content belongs to you, can move site if needed.
cannot edit yourself: built on system we maintain. 15 minutes monthly edits included in hosting fee.
see what's included in our website service.
based in mere, wiltshire. work anywhere.