Risks in fees and appointments
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
Professional obligations and risks regarding appointment – Getting an appointment in place:
- To encourage efficiency by receiving complete information.
- To promote the start of a trustworthy business relationship.
[edit] Scenario: The brief
It is important to understand exactly what it is that the client requires. Any confusion in the briefing stage can lead to abortive work later on when a redesign is needed. Understanding the full scope of works is essential to charge the appropriate fee along with any premiums for additional services such as taking on the role of lead designer.
[edit] Invoice payments
Regular invoices, preferably on a monthly basis help to maintain a positive cash flow. RIBA Standard form of appointment contains fundamental terms of payment along with methods of dispute resolution in order to collet fees which are due.
[edit] Scenario: Procurement route
If the large scale nature of a project means it is likely to be procured using design and build in order to limit the overall project costs, then a contractor can be appointed early to help negotiate a fixed price to the construction costs.
[edit] Scenario: Specialists' input
If the practice feels the services required are beyond their expertise, they may choose to sub-let the work to specialist sub-consultants and this will need to be clearly stated within the contract documentation. The client’s permission should be requested before appointing the sub consultant. A collateral warrant should be considered between the specialist and the client in order to protect the clients investment. The sub consultant appointment should be back-to-back with the architect's appointment.
[edit] Professional indemnity insurance
The practice should ensure an adequate level of professional indemnity insurance cover is maintained. The RIBA standard form of appointment includes provisions for adequate PII cover. PII is likely to be invalid if no contract is in place.
This includes a minimum level of cover and run-off cover.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.
Licensing construction in the UK
As the latest report and proposal to licence builders reaches Parliament.
Building Safety Alliance golden thread guidance
Extensive excel checklist of information with guidance document freely accessible.
Fair Payment Code and other payment initiatives
For fair and late payments, need to work together to add value.
Pre-planning delivery programmes and delay penalties
Proposed for housebuilders in government reform: Speeding Up Build Out.
High street health: converting a building for healthcare uses
The benefits of health centres acting as new anchor sites in the high street.