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ARCHITECT NEGLIGENCE CLAIMS

 

ARE ARCHITECTS LIABLE IN THE CASE OF NEGLIGENCE?

Architect negligence can lead to significant financial and physical consequences for all parties involved in a construction project. Regrettably, design flaws may not be apparent until long after a project's completion. However, most construction professionals, including architects, may be held accountable for negligence and breaches of contract even after a project is completed.

If you suspect architect negligence has impacted your project, contact the construction litigation attorneys at Murray Law Group immediately. Our experienced team has the knowledge and resources to assist real estate developers file professional negligence claims against architects.

WHAT IS ARCHITECT NEGLIGENCE?

Architect negligence arises when an architect fails to meet the performance and safety standards established in their contract. Developers can pursue legal action by filing a breach of contract claim, suing the architect for negligence, or combining both claims into a comprehensive construction lawsuit. To sue for negligence, the plaintiff must prove the architect had a duty to the project, breached that duty, and directly caused financial loss as a result.

ARCHITECT RESPONSIBILITIES & DISPUTES

Architects must deliver a construction design suitable for the building’s intended purpose. To achieve this, architects undertake a variety of tasks and responsibilities, including:

  • Using safe & appropriate materials for the project
  • Adhering to relevant local, state, and federal laws, rules, and regulations
  • Complying with applicable health and safety standards for workers
  • Ensuring the project remains within budget constraints
  • Obtaining authorization for budget excesses as needed
  • Providing comprehensive construction & design plans
  • Offering accurate & proper advice
  • Acquiring necessary licenses & permits
  • Supervising the project
  • Collaborating with the project’s general contractor & all subcontractors

COMMON EXAMPLES OF ARCHITECT NEGLIGENCE

Negligence at any stage of a construction project can significantly impact its outcome. Errors in blueprints, architectural plans, and other planning documents often result from inadequate research or review. Frequent examples of architecture negligence include:

  • Assigning under- or unqualified employees
  • Insufficient supervision of employees
  • Ignoring client’s program or instructions
  • Failing to ensure compliance with applicable codes, statutes, or regulations
  • Neglecting to engage suitable project consultants when necessary
  • Missing deadlines for submitting plans
  • Breaching the terms and conditions of the project agreement

ARCHITECT NEGLIGENCE IN FLORIDA

In Florida, registered architects who are found liable for professional negligence may face disciplinary actions in accordance with Florida Statute §481, with some exceptions. Certain projects, including the following, do not require an architecture license and are not considered architect negligence:

  • Commercial food equipment manufacturing
  • Design/build work by an architect
  • Incidental work by an engineer
  • Farm buildings
  • Buildings valued under $25,000 and not intended for public use
  • Single or double-family residences

A two-year statute of limitations applies to architect negligence cases in Florida, beginning when the negligence is discovered or should have been discovered with due diligence.

Creating Positive Outcomes

CONTACT MURRAY LAW GROUP TODAY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

Not every instance of architect negligence is apparent. Many issues only surface after construction finishes, creating numerous structural and safety concerns. If your construction project has been adversely affected by an architect's negligence, contact Murray Law Group 1-855-269-4317 today for a free consultation.

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Murray Law Group’s Florida insurance attorneys have recovered hundreds of millions for thousands of clients in Florida. Our award-winning team has the expertise and in-depth knowledge to build strong cases for victims of bad faith insurance claims.