Inconsistent Contract Terminology – Contract Tip of the Week
Q: I noticed that my contract uses some terminology inconsistently. For example, my obligations are referred to as both “work” and “services.” Is this a concern? A: It’s not uncommon for agreements to use the terms “work” and “services” interchangeably, especially...
Cost Estimates – Contract Tip of the Week
Q: How can I explain to my client that any cost estimates that I might provide are not guarantees for a maximum price on the construction work? A: Some design professionals agree to provide cost estimates to their clients based on their professional experience with...
Construction Administration (CA) Service – Contract Tip of the Week
Q: If I agree to provide Construction Administration (CA) Services, am I agreeing to oversee construction? A: Most design professionals aren’t qualified to oversee construction. They therefore typically provide Construction Contract Administration services,...
Construction Phase Services – Contract Tip of the Week
Q: My client wants to eliminate Construction Phase Services from my scope of services. Does this affect my risk on the project? How can I address this? A: A client who decreases or eliminates a design professional’s role during the construction phase may...
Site Inspections – Contract Tip of the Week
Q: The contract proposed by our client references site inspections. I’ve been told in the past that this is inappropriate, but my client is insisting that I’m wrong. Who’s right here? A: It’s important to acknowledge that the term inspection may raise the...