The questions, and what to listen for
1. Is the price fixed, and is it in writing?
You want a fixed quote that lists what’s included, not an hourly rate that keeps growing. Ask what would make the price change.
2. Who will own the website and the domain?
You should own your domain, your content and the design once it’s paid for. Be wary of designers who register your domain in their own name.
3. What will it cost every year after launch?
Hosting, domain renewal, updates, support and any paid plugins. Get the full yearly figure upfront so there are no surprises.
4. Who will actually build it?
With some agencies, the person who sells to you isn’t the person who builds it, and the work may be outsourced. Ask who you’ll be dealing with day to day.
5. Will I be able to update it myself?
Ask which platform it’s built on and whether you’ll be shown how to change text, photos and prices without paying each time.
6. How many rounds of changes are included?
Changes are normal. Know how many rounds are in the price and what extra changes cost.
7. Will it be set up for Google?
At minimum: page titles and descriptions, headings, image descriptions, a sitemap sent to Google and fast loading on phones. Ask what’s included and what’s extra.
8. Can I see websites you’ve built, and talk to a client?
Look at real, live websites, test them on your phone, and read their Google reviews.
9. What happens if something breaks after launch?
Ask whether bugs in their work are fixed free for a period after launch, and how quickly they respond.
10. What happens if I want to leave?
You should be able to take your website, content and domain to another designer or host. Ask how that works before you sign.
My answers
| Question | With me |
|---|---|
| Fixed price? | Yes, a fixed quote in writing, valid for 30 days |
| Who owns it? | You own the design and content once paid for; domains are registered in your name wherever possible |
| Yearly cost? | Hosting and care from £15 a month, paid yearly, set out before you start |
| Who builds it? | Me, Ben, start to finish |
| Edit it yourself? | Yes, it’s WordPress, and I show you how at handover |
| Changes? | Your quote says how many rounds are included |
| Bugs after launch? | Any bug in my work found within 30 days of launch is fixed free |
| Leaving? | You get a full copy of your website and help moving it |
The full details are in my terms and conditions, written in plain English.
When you don’t need me
Use these questions with any designer you’re considering, including me. If you’d like to see how I’d answer them for your project, get in touch for a free chat and a fixed quote.
Written by Ben Brailsford-Chambers, the web designer behind Clever Rabbit in Oldbury. Last updated 25 October 2026. More guides