Most architects prefer to design the built environment rather than learn about legal concepts such as indemnification. While you should always engage your attorney to review contract language, this legal concept can significantly increase your risks on a project, especially if poorly written.

An indemnification clause is your promise to cover the losses of the other party, usually your client’s, if you cause them harm or cause a third party to sue them. Your Professional Liability Insurance policy will cover you for this risk only when there is proper indemnification language – but not when you agree to language that is excluded from your policy.

This recent article highlights the problems that you should avoid and gives suggestions as to how to negotiate appropriate indemnification clauses. Read the article: Indemnification Clauses: All You Need to Know.

For more information:

• Walking the Thin Line on Indemnification
• The Duty to Defend