MODULE 08 - CONSULTANTS

Question 1

What is the difference between a secondary consultant engagement and a sub-consultant engagement?

Answer 1

In a secondary consultant engagement, the consultant is directly engaged by the architect. In a sub-consultant engagement, the consultant is engaged by another consultant.

Question 2

In a sub-consultant arrangement, who is contractually responsible for the consultant’s work?

Answer 2

The primary consultant is contractually responsible for the sub-consultant’s work.

Question 3

True or False: In a secondary consultant arrangement, the architect directly pays the consultant.

Answer 3

True

Question 4

What does it mean for consultant agreements to have back-to-back terms?

Answer 4

It means that the terms of the consultant agreement mirror those of the primary agreement, ensuring consistency in obligations.

Question 5

Why should architects seek legal and insurance advice before signing consultant contracts?

Answer 5

To ensure that they understand the risks and liabilities associated with the contracts.

Question 6

Which of the following is covered by Security of Payments legislation? A. Payment from client to builder B. Payment from architect to specialist consultant C. Payment from consultant to subcontractor D. Payment from council to builder

Answer 6

A. Payment from client to builder
B. Payment from architect to specialist consultant
C. Payment from consultant to subcontractor
D. Payment from council to builder

Question 7

A client directly engages a landscape architect for a project. Is this considered a secondary or sub-consultant engagement from your perspective as the architect? Explain.

Answer 7

This is considered a secondary consultant engagement because the landscape architect is directly engaged by the client.

Question 8

You engage an acoustic engineer as a sub-consultant. Their design is later found defective. Who bears responsibility to the client, and why?

Answer 8

The primary consultant bears responsibility to the client because they are contractually liable for the work of their sub-consultants.

Question 9

You are asked to sign a consultant contract that contains obligations beyond those in your client–architect agreement. What is the main risk, and how should you address it?

Answer 9

The main risk is exposure to additional liabilities. You should seek legal advice to understand and negotiate the terms.