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architects and engineers

We’ve posted several times about the confusion surrounding so-called “standard contracts,” as well as the most commonly misunderstood clauses in design professional contracts. When reviewing a new contract for the first time, it can be helpful to know what sound contract language looks like. In February, we published an issue of ProNetwork News titled Template of […]

An attorney is asked to defend an architect in a claim for defective design of a geothermal HVAC system, which allegedly caused an explosion and several million dollars of property damage to an owner’s manufacturing facility. He reviews the file, making notes. The plaintiff is the owner’s casualty insurer, which has paid the claim and […]

Design professionals often come across contractual language requiring that they indemnify and defend their clients.  This has long been a sticking point in negotiations, as professional liability policies typically exclude coverage for contractual liability.  How many times has an a/e walked away from a project, because the client is insistent on this point?  How many […]

The economy is booming, and with it design professionals are experiencing increased demand for their services.  Subsequently, and necessarily, their risk in the marketplace is also rising.  As design firms’ see increases in their exposure, will we see a boom in insurance premiums, as well?  The ACEC 2018 PLI Survey results are in, and the […]

Compared with many other industries, the Engineering and Architecture community has a relatively low abuse/dependence rate (7.9%) on any substance, and alcohol is the substance these design professionals are most likely to be dependent upon. This is according to a 2010/2011 national survey completed by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. “Coping with substance […]