Interior Design Licensing in Quebec

Interior design is not a regulated profession in Quebec. Unlike Ontario, where the title 'Interior Designer' is protected, Quebec does not restrict the use of the title or the practice of interior design. However, the Association professionnelle des designers d'intérieur du Québec (APDIQ) offers voluntary membership and promotes professional standards. Members typically hold a diploma or degree in interior design from a recognized Quebec institution. For work involving structural changes, building permits and licensed contractors with appropriate RBQ licences are required. Interior decorating (selecting colours, furnishings, accessories) is also unregulated.

Ask if they are a member of the APDIQ. Review their portfolio and educational credentials.

(1) No portfolio of completed projects or unwillingness to share client references (2) Pressures you to purchase all furnishings through them without disclosing their markup (3) No written contract outlining scope, deliverables, timeline, and fee structure (4) Claims the title 'Interior Designer' but is not registered with ARIDO

(1) Are you a Registered Interior Designer with ARIDO, or do you work as a decorator? (2) What is your fee structure (hourly, flat fee, or cost-plus) and what does it include? (3) Can I see examples of completed projects similar to mine in scope and style? (4) How do you handle procurement, and do you disclose markups on furnishings? (5) What is included in your contract, and how many revision rounds are covered?

While not legally required, it is strongly recommended that interior designs carry liability insurance. Ask for proof of coverage before hiring.

In Quebec, most contractors performing construction work must hold an RBQ (Régie du bâtiment du Québec) licence. You can verify any contractor's licence on the RBQ's online Licence Holders' Registry at rbq.gouv.qc.ca. Always ask for the licence number and verify it before hiring.

Typical rates for interior designs in Quebec range from $75-$250/hour. Scope of the project (single room vs. full home), designer experience and reputation, billing model (hourly, flat fee, or cost-plus where the designer marks up furnishings 15-35%), complexity of custom elements, whether procurement and project management are included, and the cost of furnishings and materials (which are separate from design fees). GTA designers typically charge 20-40% more than those in smaller Ontario communities. Some designers require a minimum project budget.