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Design Professional Contracts – Words to Avoid

pronet_rmcrgAt its most basic level, risk management for design firms includes selecting and signing sound contracts. a/e ProNet’s  Risk Management & Contract Guide for Design Professionals (2005) can assist with the specifics of this process.

An excerpt from Chapter 7, Some Do’s and Don’ts of Contract Language:

7.2 Words to Avoid

Certain words create the impression that the design firm has a greater duty or responsibility than required by the generally accepted standard of care and scope of services stated elsewhere in the contract. Some words that risk managers often advise the design firm to avoid using in their contracts to the greatest extent possible include the following:

  • “supervise contractor’s work”
  • “control contractor’s work”
  • “direct contractor’s work”
  • “guarantee or warrant either your services or the contractor’s work”
  • “certify that contractor’s work meets the plans and specifications”
  • “inspect contractor’s work to assure it meets the plans and specifications”

This risk management guide was previously out of print, but has since been re-released in electronic format. The book includes three updated optional AIA-approved continuing education courses! Visit the a/e ProNet Web Store to purchase and download your copy today! Also available is our most recent guide, Risk Management for Design Professionals in a World of Change (2009). If you have any questions about these resources, find your local a/e ProNet broker or Contact Us.