Construction Law
The Risks Contractors Assume When Taking on the Duties of an Architect Part 2
Contractors that take on an expanded role and assume the responsibilities of an architect are putting themselves at risk of having their liability expand beyond what they intended. As we’ll see below, the consequences of removing a traditional architect from the design process go beyond the contract and extend to the construction site.
In part one of this two-part article, we discussed the reasons behind the diminished role of the architect in the design and construction process. Below, we will discuss what’s best for construction companies when faced with deciding whether to work with a consultant or keep design work in-house. To ensure that your company is protected regardless of the design choices it makes, consult with a Boca Raton construction lawyer from Cotney Attorneys & Consultants.
The Potential Consequences of Forgoing a Traditional Architect
Architects don’t just draft blueprints. An architect’s duties include presenting design proposals, advising owners, collaborating with contractors, conducting site visits, and addressing problems that may come up at any time during the construction process. However, the crux of an architect’s job is to provide a consistent vision throughout a project to ensure that the design is properly executed.
By using an in-house staff that’s removed from the decision-making process, a construction company may be covering the basic duties of an architect, but they could be losing a valuable asset for pointing out and surmounting problems that present themselves during the building process.
What’s Best for Construction Companies?
Whether you decide to work with a consultant or in-house staff, it’s imperative that your company takes the necessary steps to protect itself from the potential consequences of taking on design duties. The best way to do that is with a robust and professionally drafted construction contract.
A poorly drafted contract could result in your company being held liable for baseless construction defect claims, whereas a contract drafted by a Boca Raton construction lawyer will be comprehensive enough to protect you from scope creep, construction defects, and payment disputes. To ensure that one of your most valuable assets doesn’t become a liability, have an attorney from Cotney Attorneys & Consultants draft, review, and amend your construction contracts as needed.
If you would like to speak with a Boca Raton construction attorney, please contact us today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.