How to Choose a Web Designer in the UK: 10 Questions to Ask Before You Hire

Hiring a web designer is a significant investment. Ask these 10 questions before you commit to ensure you're making the right choice.

1. Can I See Your Portfolio?

A designer's portfolio tells you everything. Look for:

• Variety of styles (not just one look repeated)
• Real business websites (not just concept designs)
• Mobile-responsive examples
• Sites in your industry or similar

2. What Platform Do You Build On?

Different platforms suit different needs:

• **Wix**: Great for service businesses, easy to manage
• **Shopify**: Best for e-commerce
• **WordPress**: Good for content-heavy sites
• **Custom code**: For unique, complex requirements

Make sure their platform matches your needs.

3. What's Included in the Price?

Get clarity on:

• Number of pages
• Mobile responsive design
• SEO setup
• Contact forms and integrations
• Training on managing your site
• Post-launch support

4. What Are Your Timelines?

A realistic timeline for a small business website is 2-4 weeks. If someone promises a week for a full website, question the quality.

5. Do You Handle SEO?

Every new website should include basic SEO setup. If your designer says "SEO is extra," consider someone who includes it as standard.

6. What Happens After Launch?

Find out:

• Is post-launch support included?
• What does ongoing maintenance cost?
• Can you update the site yourself?
• How quickly do they respond to issues?

7. Will I Own My Website?

This is critical. You should own:

• Your domain name
• Your website files/content
• Your hosting account access
• All design assets

8. Can You Show Me Testimonials?

Check for reviews on Google, Bark, or Trustpilot. Real client feedback is the best indicator of what working with them is like.

9. How Do You Handle Revisions?

Understand their revision process:

• How many rounds of revisions?
• What counts as a revision vs. a change in scope?
• What's the process for feedback?

10. What Are Your Payment Terms?

Standard terms are typically:

• 50% deposit upfront
• 50% on completion
• Or milestone-based payments for larger projects

Avoid anyone asking for 100% upfront with no guarantee.

Red Flags to Watch For

• ⛳ No portfolio or only template-based work
• ⛳ Prices that seem too good to be true
• ⛳ No contract or terms of service
• ⛳ Can't explain their process clearly
• ⛳ Pressure to sign immediately
• ⛳ No testimonials or reviews

Ready to Work with a Designer You Can Trust?

I'm always happy to answer all of these questions (and more) on a free discovery call. Transparency is at the core of how I work.