Query about architect liability

[lilaccat1981]

I am just looking for some advice.

We had an architect draw up full plans for a planning application for a double storey extension which was refused, we then had the plans revised to a slightly different layout then finally had plans drawn up for a single storey extension and loft conversion. We finally got planning. We used those plans to get builder quotes and got a structural engineer to do their drawings. Once the builder was on site we realised we also needed building control sign off too so they were sent the same plans and on one of their many (many) visits it transpires that because we now have 3 storey's we have to make fire safety changes too. In our case we could either install a fire sprinkler system (costly) or enclose our downstairs stairs by adding a new wall to create an enclosed means of escape.

I think understandably I am not pleased as this is not only additional unforeseen cost but it will change part of house that we hadn't realised. My feeling is the architect would have known about this at the outset and should have told us - he obviously disagrees and I was wondering if we had any recourse or if I was being unreasonable?

Thanks in advance for any advice

[Gazer]

Its a shame no one responded/acknowledged this as its a valid query.
Did you get any further advice elsewhere?

[atticus]

I was not a member at the time, so did not see this.

One of my first questions to the OP would have been about the terms of the architect's engagement: what he was to do and what was excluded from the scope of work to be undertaken.

When I was in practice as a lawyer I always regarded it as important to agree clearly at the outset what I would do and what was outwith the scope of the engagement.

[Huxie]

atticus An almost 3 year old post resurrected by a spammer.

[atticus]

I hoped that the first words of my reply showed that I realised that, Huxie

[Huxie]

I hoped that the first words of my reply showed that I realised that, Huxie

Whoops, completely missed that. Sorry.

[kadijasquare]

That is the most frustrating and annoying thing about being an architect. To tell the truce, I hate people who act like this and change the project a hundred times. They don’t understand how hard it is to change the perfect image/sketch. And how much time does it take to calculate everything again? I suggest you warn the client that the first two changes of the ready project are free, but further ones should be paid for. Due to my experience, it works brilliantly; clients try to change as little as possible. More advice here.