an architect provides stamped plans to a contractor for providing a cost estimate. the contractor is awarded the job. the plans had not been permitted. the contractor uses the plans and completes the project. what type of risk or liability did the architect take on when the contractor built the design without the drawings being permitted?
1 Like
Hello @wildlandguy -
Perhaps our in house architect @coachchrishopstock can answer this question.
Elise
Hi @wildlandguy , thanks for writing in!
The architect shouldn’t stamp plans that are being used for a cost estimate, and should only stamp plans when they’re complete and ready for submission to the AHJ for permitting. In this case, the architect has put themselves in a bad position by stamping these drawings, which might make the contractor feel that they’re able to be built from.
If the contractor was hired using a standard AIA contract, they’re required to secure the permit for the project prior to commencing work. In this scenario, they clearly didn’t do that, so they are also responsible for the issue.
1 Like