Architects play a crucial role in the design and execution of building projects, and if they fail to uphold professional standards, it can lead to significant issues and financial losses for their clients. If an architect's negligence leads to inadequate plans, significant delays in construction, or other problems for you, you may be in a position to make a claim for professional negligence compensation.

Claiming compensation is a complex issue, but it can help to account for any losses you made as a result of the actions of a negligent architect. The team at Clough & Willis can support you throughout the legal process and help you to achieve justice for the professional negligence you experienced.

To learn more or start the process of making a claim, get in touch with our expert architect negligence solicitors today. Call us on 0800 083 0815, or use our online enquiry form to request a call back at your convenience.

When can I make a professional negligence claim against an architect?

While you may be unhappy with an architect's work, this will not always amount to negligence on their part. In order to make a professional negligence claim against an architect, you need to be able to demonstrate not only that they failed in their duty of care to you as a client, but that you suffered loss or harm as a result. Often in cases of claims against architects, this is financial loss, but you can also claim for compensation if you experienced physical or emotional harm due to a professional's negligent actions.

Some of the most common mistakes made by architects that can result in compensation claims include:

• Creating flawed or impractical designs that lead to structural issues, or do not meet the client’s specifications.
• Neglecting to acquire the required planning permission or building regulations approval, which can lead to legal issues, alterations or even demolitions in serious cases.
• Providing misleading or inaccurate cost estimates that significantly underestimate the actual costs of the project.
• Failing to effectively manage the project, especially when this results in delays, cost overruns or substandard work.
• Not properly overseeing the work of contractors, which may lead to poor workmanship or non-compliance with the project plans.
• Overlooking site-specific issues, such as ground stability or drainage problems, that could impact the feasibility or cost of the project.
• Failing to fulfil contractual obligations - this might include delivering work late, not adhering to the agreed-upon specifications, or failing to provide the services at the required standard.
• Providing incorrect or ill-considered advice that leads the client to make poor decisions, resulting in financial loss or other damages.
• Failing to adequately address issues or defects that arise during the course of the project.
• Providing insufficient or inaccurate drawings, specifications or other project documentation.

These are not the only examples of negligence on the part of an architect. If you feel you have been treated unfairly and may have a valid claim, contact our team today and we will discuss your eligibility to make a claim with you.

What is the time limit for architect negligence compensation?

For claims based on a breach of contract or negligence, the claimant typically has six years from the date on which the negligent act occurred or the contract was breached to bring a claim. However, negligence of this kind may not always be apparent straight away.

If you were not aware of the negligence at the time it occurred, you may have three years from the date on which you became aware (or should have reasonably become aware) of the negligence and the damage it caused. This is referred to as the "date of knowledge".

Finally, there is a provision that means you cannot make a claim more than 15 years after the negligent act, regardless of when you found out or became aware of the negligence.

Why choose Clough & Willis?

The professional negligence solicitors at Clough & Willis are experienced and knowledgeable about the professional duties of architects, and can quickly determine whether or not you will be owed compensation. Thanks to our experience in this area, we can help you to evaluate the likely outcomes of the claims process and offer practical advice that will be applicable no matter how the legal process unfolds.

No one should have to suffer financial loss due to the actions of a negligent architect. If an architect owed you a duty of care and failed to uphold their responsibilities to you, we can help you to secure compensation. Our team will always do whatever we can to help you make a successful claim.