A: Like most states, California does not license or regulate "designers," so they generally just need a business license to operate in their city or town. It is a source of frustration to many professional designers that anyone could call him/herself a "designer". There have been many attempts to license designers based on education and experience. For now, however, architects are the only designers licensed in California.

In the absence of governmental regulation, professionals form organizations with training and certification programs to help insure professional standards of education, field experience and adherence to a code of ethics. The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) is such an organization.

When looking for an interior designer/decorator, it is important to verify their experience and professionalism. In addition to checking out their portfolio, look for design degrees from accredited universities and membership in or certification from professional organizations such as the ASID. For details about how interior designers earn ASID credentials, visit http://www.asid.org/.

To find an interior decorator or designer, visit Home Advisor, type "Interior Designer" into the search box and read the associated articles for advice about finding the most appropriate designers. Then submit a service request and be matched with the ideal service professional in your area.

by Kathy Maynard, reprinted courtesy of HomeAdvisor.com