Defining Contract Roles
Nov 8/24
by Andrii Byndych
In this blog, we explore essential roles of Design Professionals as they relate to Contract Administration.
Proactively managing the contract administration process contributes to a smoother construction project and strengthens relationships between Architects, Designers, Engineers, and Clients.
In this blog, we explore these roles:
Architect
Many people can be involved in building and designing projects. An architect is a person trained and experienced in the design of buildings and the coordination and supervision of all aspects of the construction process. They are typically designated by law and possess the professional qualifications and licenses required to provide architectural services. Architects apply their expertise in the fields of art, science, and design aesthetics to create and develop project designs, prepare drawings, specifications, and bidding requirements, and administer construction contracts. Their work involves considering the safety of individuals, protection of property, and the overall welfare of the public. In addition to consultation, evaluation, and planning, architects provide preliminary studies, designs, and construction documents. Some architects also engage in construction management and oversee the administration of construction projects.
Consultant
In the construction industry, consultants play a crucial role in providing specialized expertise and guidance to owners and stakeholders. Today, we explore the significance of consultants and offer a couple of insights for effective collaboration: The Consultant is the person or entity engaged by the owner and identified as such in the Work Authorization. The Consultant can be the Architect, the Engineer, or an entity licensed to practice in the province or territory of the Place of the Work. The term Consultant also encompasses the Consultant's authorized representative.
Insight—Expertise and Experience:
When engaging a consultant for your construction project, prioritize their expertise and experience. Ensure they possess the necessary qualifications and licenses to practice in the specific location where the project is taking place. Their knowledge and proficiency will be instrumental in achieving the desired outcomes.
Contractor
Definition (from the Dictionary of Architecture and Construction by Cyril M. Harris, Fourth Edition):
“Contractor—one who undertakes responsibility for the performance of construction work, including the provision of labor and materials, in accordance with plans and specifications and under a contract specifying cost and schedule for completion of the work; the person or organization responsible for performing the work, and identified as such in the owner-contractor agreement.”
Project Manager
A project manager in construction is a person selected by an owner to act on their behalf throughout the duration of a project. This individual takes on various responsibilities that contribute to the successful completion of the construction project. Key duties of a project manager include the selection and hiring of senior personnel, both administrative and technical, who will play integral roles in the project's execution. Additionally, the project manager is responsible for handling financial matters such as making payments for services rendered and addressing related financial considerations.
Tip: When dealing with contracts, ensure clarity and specificity in defining terms, deliverables, and timelines. Seek legal counsel to draft or review contracts to protect your interests and mitigate potential risks. Remember, a well-crafted contract lays the foundation for successful collaborations and projects.
For more info, see our Glossary