Architect Bertram Wooster's clients were powerless while watching their beloved heritage burn down to charred rubble.
Wooster himself would have likely been able to prevent the catastrophe had he heeded these 4 lessons:
1: Rationing engineering services to save a few thousand dollars is a risky move.
2: The alleged lack of firestops is a frequent source of claims. Architects need to make sure they are properly installed.
3: Laymen often imagine architects' duty of care to mean observing every nail being pounded in, every staple being punched in. It's good practice to be crystal clear as to what each professional's responsibilities are (architects, consultants and trades).
4: Be careful not to offer unrealistic and possibly uninsurable guarantees, by providing professional advice based on unrealistic expectations.
5: In dealing with a claim, parties on both sides will make outrageous and unreasonable claims to gain the upper hand. Fortunately, reason often prevails, but following the rules and operating "by the book" will prevent costly liability.
In the latest instalment of "The Claims-Free Architect" podcast, Bertram Wooster, OAA is the target of an insurance claim alleging failing to maintain duty of care.
Listen in if you don't want to be like Wooster.
Find "The Claims-Free Architect" where you get your podcasts
Credits:
Original stories - David Croft, adapted for audio by Gordon Grice.
Performance - Liam Gadsby (the man with the mellifluous voice).
Producer - yours truly (RVLTR).
Audio recording and Engineering - Audio Process.
Publisher and executive producer - ProDemnity Insurance Company