Services of An Architect
Services of An Architect
Services of An Architect
Many people are unaware of the exact services rendered by an Architect. There is a lot of
confusion on this point:-
Does he only prepare a plan or the whole set of drawings?
Does he have to visit the site and how often?
Does he check the quality of the Contractor’s work?
Does he check the contractor’s bills?
Once the Client has appointed an Architect, he can expect the following Services from
an Architect:-
CLIENTS BRIEF
The Architect ascertains the Client’s requirements of the project, like its
appearance, financial budget and time frame.
Architect prepares an agreement with the Client, a programme of client’s
requirements.
Architect visits the Site and examines the site constraints, potential and the
surrounding environment.
Architect examines the Codes, Legislation and standards.
Architect acquaints the Client with the Conditions of Engagement and Scale of
Charges as prescribed by the Council of Architecture.
The Client engages the Architect and both effectively enter an agreement by
signing a standard Letter of Appointment.
CONCEPT DESIGN
APPOINTMENT OF CONTRACTORS
CONSTRUCTION
The Architect prepares Working Drawings and details for the proper execution.
Architect issues sufficient copies of working drawings, schedules, specifications,
Bill of Quantities and other contract documents to the Contractors for the proper
execution of works.
Architect approves the Works Progress Schedule prepared by the Contractors.
Architect approves samples of various materials, elements and components.
Architect advises the Client to appoint and pay a Construction Manager or
Clerk of Works or Site Supervisor, (who shall work under the guidance of the
Architect), for the day-to-day supervision at site, in order to ensure that the work
at site proceeds in accordance with the contract documents and drawings.
Architect attends conferences, meetings to ensure that the project proceeds
generally in accordance with the conditions of contract.
Architect visits the site at intervals mutually agreed upon, to inspect and evaluate
the construction work and keeps the client informed on the quality and progress of
work. Where necessary, Architect clarifies any decision and offers
interpretation of the drawings and specifications at site.
Architect shall ensure that the drawings are being correctly interpreted at site, and
the finishing is of acceptable quality. In case of adverse certification, the
payments of the Contractor shall be with-held until the defects have been
rectified.
Architect advises the Client if the Contract time is likely to be varied, or if the
total authorized expenditure is likely to be exceeded.
The Architect checks the Contractors applications for payment (Bills) with the
help of the site engineers and issues Certificates authorizing payment.
Architect issues Certificate of Virtual Completion of works.
COMPLETION
The Architect’s responsibilities and services rendered at every Stage of the Project have
been enumerated above. In addition, the Architect has some more responsibilities that
should be mentioned:
The Architect shall keep the Client informed about the progress of work.
The Architect shall appoint specialized Consultants, in consultation with the
Client, if necessary.
The Architect shall be responsible for the direction and integration of the
Consultants work. However, the Consultants shall be responsible for the
calculations, detailed design and periodic inspection of the work entrusted to
them.
The Architect shall not make any deviations, alterations or omissions from the
approved drawings, involving financial implications, without the prior consent of
the Client.
No change shall be made at site from the approved drawings and specifications,
without the consent of the Architect