Understanding the Standard of Care

Published by AIA’s Risk Management Committee (RMC), below are two articles to explain how the standard of care applies to your practice.

Often the actions of the architect are measured against the applicable “standard of care.” Perfection is not the standard of care for the practice of architecture and while the common law standard of care for architects is well established, architects can agree by contract to perform to a higher standard of care. But do you understand what is required? Find out what that means to you.

So how is the standard of care then applied? Four elements must be proven before liability and damages will be assessed on the basis of professional negligence. While the best way to avoid liability is to practice professionally and competently, it is important to know what is required. Read more about how the standard of care is applied.