The Royal Institute of British Architects launched the newly updated RIBA Appointment Agreements 2010, a suite of documents used to create tailored contracts relating to the appointment of an architect, and specific projects.
The RIBA Agreements 2010 replace the RIBA Agreements 2007, and are recognised as industry standard documents that are fair and balanced for both architect and client. The documents are endorsed by leading organisations in the profession, including the Association of Consultant Architects (ACA), the Royal Institution of Architects in Scotland (RIAS), the Royal Society of Architects in Wales (RSAW) and the Royal Society of Ulster Architects (RSUA).
Key changes to the documents include:
- Recent legislative changes, taking account of the Cancellation of Contracts made in a Consumer's Home or Place of Work Regulations 2008 and the Provision of Services Regulations 2009
- Revisions to the provisions for termination, which give equal rights to the architect as offered to the client
- The introduction of the option of an aggregate cap on liability
- The establishment of the right for the architect to have reasonable access to photograph a project, and to publish images
- Increased interest charges on the late payment of fees
- Better clarification in relation to the architect's right to suspend the copyright license in the event of non-payment of any amounts properly due.
The documents are available in both print and online formats through RIBA Bookshops.
"The new RIBA Appointment Agreements documents are the result of an extensive review process, carried out over a two-year period, and are widely recognised as industry standard documents with endorsements from respected bodies across the profession," said Adrian Dobson, Director of Practice at the RIBA. "The Review Group consulted widely with practitioners, construction lawyers and PI insurers to ensure that the revised documents have a sound legal basis, are tailored to contemporary needs and represent exemplary practice."