Architects Need To Be Responsible for Projects

YOUR ARTICLE correctly states the only way the cost of a project can increase is through a change order. There can only be three reasons for a change order: what the architect drew cannot be built as drawn (common because the architectural, mechanical electrical and structural drawings on a large project are usually done by three different firms and they are often not compatible); the client does not like what the architect drew and asks for a change; or the client decides to add additional work.

As a retired estimator, I have worked with all of the general contractors mentioned in your article with the possible exception of Shumate and have never thought any of them would do shoddy work to lower their cost on a contract.

The primary reason for cost overrides is that the architectural, mechanical electrical and structural drawings are not interrelated. The simple solution to this problem is to withhold a percentage of the architects fees and make him responsible for any change orders he was the reason for. As for the shoddy work problem, it seems to me the architect should be present on the job site to nullify this.

When the cathedrals of Europe were built, the architects were almost involved in the shaping of every stone, and they should be more involved in building today. General contractors dont dare complain about an architect strongly or they will not be given work on any of his new projects. It should be the responsibility of the client (Albuquerque Public Schools) to not only pick a competent architect but to hold him responsible for his work.

HUGH LINN

Santa Fe

Continue reading here:
Architects Need To Be Responsible for Projects