Professional Negligence Claims Against Architects

An architect’s responsibility involves utilising their knowledge and creative acumen to transform ambitious designs into tangible structures and environments. Nevertheless, the intricate nature of architectural projects, combined with the inherent risks they entail, may at times result in inadvertent mistakes or omissions with significant impacts.

Instances of professional negligence allegations against architects occur when the services offered by these design experts do not meet the anticipated level of diligence. These architect negligence claims stem from a breach of the duty of care that architects owe to their clients.

If you have suffered a loss due to a negligent job carried out by an instructed architect then you may be entitled to claim for damages. Please get in touch with out team today to find out how we can assist you.

Examples of professional negligence claims against architects

Below are some examples of professional negligence claims that can be made for architect negligence:

• Failure to comply with building codes or regulations – If an architect fails to design a building that complies with local building codes or regulations, and this results in the building being unsafe or not fit for purpose, the architect may be liable for professional negligence. Failing to obtain the correct planning permission before starting a project may also amount to architect negligence.
• Design errors or omissions – If an architect fails to design a building correctly or fails to spot a potential issue, such as structural supports, fire safety measures, or accessibility features, and this results in harm or damage to the building or its occupants, the architect may be liable for professional negligence.
• Delay in design or construction – If an architect causes delays in the design or construction process, which results in the project owner suffering financial losses or damages, the client may bring a professional negligence claim for compensation.
• Failure to supervise contractors – If an architect fails to adequately supervise the work of contractors on a project, and this results in errors or omissions in the construction process, the architect may be liable for professional negligence.
• Misrepresentation or fraud – If an architect knowingly misrepresents their qualifications, experience, the quality of their work, or engages in fraudulent behaviour related to a project they manage, they may be liable for professional negligence.

It is worth noting that these are just some examples, and the specific circumstances of each case will determine whether a professional negligence claim can be made against an architect.

Making a complaint against an architect

If it can be established that an architect owed a duty of care and breached this, there are several options for making a complaint:

• Architects Registration Board (ARB) – The ARB is the independent statutory regulator for architects in the UK. If you have a complaint about an architect’s conduct, competence, or ability to practice, you can make a complaint to the ARB. The ARB has the power to investigate complaints and take disciplinary action against architects if necessary.
• Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) – The RIBA is a professional body for architects in the UK. If you have a complaint about an architect who is a member of the RIBA, you can make a complaint to the RIBA’s Professional Standards team. The RIBA can investigate complaints and take disciplinary action against its members if necessary.
• Ombudsman services – If you are not satisfied with the outcome of your complaint to the ARB or RIBA, you may be able to take your complaint to an ombudsman service. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, this is the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman, while in Scotland, it is the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman.
• Legal action – If you have suffered harm or financial loss as a result of an architect’s negligence, you may be able to take legal action against them. You should seek legal advice from professional negligence solicitors as there are time limits in making a claim as set out in the Limitation Act 1980.

It’s important to note that you should make a complaint as soon as possible after the incident or discovery of the issue. Complaints made after six years from the date of the negligence may be time-barred. 

How our panel of solicitors can assist with professional negligence claims against architects

Our panel of solicitors have many years of experience in dealing with professional negligence claims against architects.

We understand the complexities and emotional toll that come with making a professional negligence claim. Our panel of highly skilled and experienced law firms have a deep understanding of this area of law and are dedicated to providing tailored and compassionate support to each of our clients.

Our commitment to excellence and our track record of successful outcomes are testament to our ability to deliver results. You can trust that our panel firms will work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. If you are thinking about making a claim against your architect, please get in touch today.

We only connect you with the best solicitors

All of the solicitors on our panel have the experience and expertise required to take on your case. Each solicitor is vetted before being allowed onto our panel and we only select the best in the business. All of our solicitor firms are authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and offer a range of funding options for your case.

Our solicitors also help with commercial claims, such as partnership disputes, breach of contract and CCJ removal.

Please note, we are not a firm of solicitors; however, we maintain a panel of trusted and regulated legal experts. If you contact us in relation to a commercial law case, we will pass your case onto a panel firm in return for a fee from our panel firms. We will never charge you for passing on your case to a panel firm.