Historically, the design and construction industry has created silos around the owner, designers, and builders in an attempt to protect each from liability. While this may have reduced exposure in some instances, it has resulted in a lag in innovation and productivity in the industry. Owners have experienced this firsthand, and many forward-thinking owners are…
Read MoreResource Type: Risk report
Understanding Property Insurance
Design firms should understand the need for proper insurance to cover the loss or damage to their firm’s real and business personal property. This publication is for general information only. It is not legal advice and should not be construed to define the coverage of the Victor and CNA property insurance policy. Consultation with local…
Read MoreHow Effective Risk Management Training Can Address Potential Indicators of Risk
When weighing the risks of design and construction professionals, professional liability underwriters typically look at indicators such as a firm’s size, billings, geographic location, clients, professional services provided, and project types. Actuaries collect data on these claims indicators that help predict a firm’s risk exposure. Victor conducted a study to determine what additional factors, besides…
Read MoreStrategies for Managing Risk on Design/Build Teams
When you are looking to pick up the right contractor for your Design/Build team, the Design Build Institute of America (DBIA) suggests that it should be a firm that you already know and with which you have done prior business. The report, Strategies for Managing Risk on Design/Build Teams, can guide you in developing an…
Read MoreDesigning for Hedonism: Guide to Brewery Design
The production and retail sale of alcohol has a long history in the United States, interrupted only by Prohibition in the 20th century. Because of this, those who provide services to the alcohol industry have historical data to assess the risks and benefits of engaging in this industry. However, there continues to be change in…
Read MoreDisability, Accessibility & Liability: What an Architect Should Know
All architects understand the importance of accessibility, but this AIA Trust report about disability, accessibility & liability is a helpful resource whether you are starting your first public building design, completing documents on your first multi-family residential project, or–heaven forbid–you have been named in a lawsuit and want to help your attorney get up to…
Read MoreThe Threat is Real: Cyber Attacks Against Architectural Firms
Many architectural firms are tempted into believing they’re safe from cyberattacks because they don’t consider their data to be “sensitive” enough to attract criminals. Cybercriminals are sophisticated, deliberate and efficient in how they monetize their efforts. If you use the internet for any reason – even if just for basics such as email, submitting invoices…
Read MoreGreen Design – What Can Go Wrong?
Over the last 25 years, the green design movement has grown but fortunately, despite predictions, there has not been a flood of litigation nor a drastic change in the design professional standard of care. This paper explores the potential impact of new risks and legal theories associated with green design along with two case…
Read MoreThe Perils of Substitutions
Substitutions are ingrained in the project delivery process. Potential cost savings lead others to assume the architect’s role and change the project scope–without needed proof of product performance. Unfortunately, resistance is not an endearing client service strategy, so developing a viable approach to handle these requests is needed. While an architect may have a reliable…
Read MoreDesigning for Hedonism: Guide to Marijuana Facilities Design
While the production and retail sale of alcohol has a long history in the United States, the same cannot be said for the marijuana industry, which is much newer and struggling with growing pains. It is also handicapped by the Federal government’s position that it is illegal–along with conflicting legal requirements by different states. In…
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