Standard Conditions of Engagement
Everything performed aligns with the NSW Code of Professional Conduct (PDF), which is available for review. Should either party determine a project is no longer viable, communication must occur via email. Upon work cessation with current invoicing, clients receive complete PDF and drawing files.
Architects must withdraw from services if they reasonably believe doing so would require unethical conduct or violation of regulations.
Document Ownership & Rights
These documents always remain our intellectual property, but you are licensed to use them to complete this project, provided fees are paid. Unauthorized modification or reuse on other projects is prohibited without written consent.
Key Operational Terms
- Assignment: Neither party may assign obligations without written consent
- Document Destruction: Records may be destroyed after seven years
- Dispute Resolution: Mediation is required before escalation
- Termination: Either party may terminate with notice; client remains responsible for costs incurred
- Acceptance: Continued project instructions constitute acceptance of terms
Our Responsibilities
Services follow standard architectural skill and care practices. Material design changes require client approval except during construction emergencies. Budget and timeline concerns are communicated promptly. Site supervision remains the builder's responsibility; architectural visits ensure general conformance with contracts.
Your Responsibilities
Clients must provide clear instructions, timely decisions, site information accuracy, and nominate a single representative. Other project team members require on-time payment. Upon completion, clients should provide photos and positive reviews. Construction signage is permitted on site fences.
Fees
Billing: Upfront stage payment required; invoices issued bi-weekly in advance. Design approval submissions are billed upon council submission, not approval.
Late Payment Interest: Accounts unpaid beyond 30 days accrue 3% above the 90-day bank bill rate. Resources may be reallocated if full payment isn't received within 30 days. Debt collection costs become client responsibility.
Fee Calculation: Percentage-based fees apply to completed or estimated work costs. Lump sum fees adjust pro rata if initial project description varies significantly.
"Completed cost of the works" encompasses all builder payments, labour, materials, specialist work under architectural direction, service installations, and client-provided materials valued at market rates.
Additional Charges Apply For:
- Brief or scope changes
- Extended service duration due to delayed instructions or builder performance issues
- Inadequate site condition information
- Non-standard construction contracts
- Service continuity breaks
- Staff overtime requirements
- Statutory authority fees
- Specialist services (perspectives, models, marketing materials)
- Court preparation/attendance
- Hardcopy printing
- International communications and courier services
Sustainability Note: Good Architect promotes sustainable practices and does not include printing in standard fees; hardcopy printing follows commercial rates.