1. Fresno-specific tax handling
- State sales tax: 7.25%. Local jurisdictions in Fresno may add their own rate — verify with your local tax assessor.
- Late fees: CA statute Cal. Civ. Code §3287; §1671 (penalty rule) caps interest on unpaid invoices at 1.5% per month.
2. Standard architect line items
- Schematic design phase — billed by flat.
- Construction documents phase — billed by flat.
- Hourly — billed by hour (~$195 default).
- Reimbursable expenses — billed by itemized.
3. Payment terms that work in Fresno
Net 30 is standard for architects. Most architects in competitive markets like Fresno require a 25% deposit upfront before scheduling work. Accept card and ACH on the invoice itself — Fresno customers expect a one-click payment link in their inbox.
4. Licensing & disclosures
State licensure (NCARB) required to call yourself an architect or stamp drawings. AIA contracts (B101, etc.) are industry-standard.
Metro
Fresno
State
CA
Net terms
30 days
Deposit
25%