Working with an architect should be a collaborative process, but disputes do happen. Whether it's about fees, delays, or the quality of work, knowing how to handle disagreements can save your project.
Common Disputes
Fee Disagreements
The most common dispute. To avoid this:
- Agree fees in writing before work starts - fixed fee, percentage, or hourly rate
- Understand what's included and what counts as additional work
- Get a clear schedule of when payments are due and what triggers them
Design Not What You Expected
Sometimes the finished design doesn't match your vision. This usually stems from:
- Unclear or evolving briefs
- Poor communication during the design process
- Mismatched expectations about what's achievable within budget or planning constraints
Delays
Architectural projects often take longer than expected. Ensure your appointment includes:
- A programme with key milestones
- Provisions for what happens if deadlines are missed
- Clear responsibilities - delays may be caused by you (slow decisions), the council (slow determination), or the architect
Steps to Resolve a Dispute
- Talk first - raise concerns directly with your architect. Most issues can be resolved through honest conversation
- Put it in writing - if verbal discussions don't resolve things, write a clear letter or email setting out the issue and what you'd like to happen
- Check your appointment - review the terms of engagement for dispute resolution clauses
- Mediation - a neutral third party can help you reach agreement. The RIBA, RIAS, and RIAI all offer mediation services
- Adjudication or arbitration - more formal processes if mediation fails
- Legal action - a last resort, usually only worthwhile for significant sums
When to Involve the ARB or RIBA
The Architects Registration Board (ARB) handles complaints about professional conduct - for example, if an architect has been dishonest, negligent, or incompetent. The ARB can sanction architects up to and including removal from the register.
The RIBA can investigate complaints about its chartered members, but only for breaches of the RIBA Code of Professional Conduct.
Neither the ARB nor RIBA can order compensation or resolve contractual disputes - for that, you'll need mediation, adjudication, or the courts.
Prevention Is Better
- Always use a written appointment (the RIBA Domestic Professional Services Contract is designed for homeowner projects)
- Agree the scope of work clearly at the start
- Ask for regular progress updates and review meetings
- Don't let small issues fester - raise them early