NZRAB Documents

Question 1

What should you do if the client is truly impossible?

Answer 1

If communication is completely broken down, If a client is impossible and you can’t maintain control, then withdraw from the commission.

The Client or the Architect may terminate this Agreement by notice in writing to the other at their last known address. This Agreement will end 20 Working Days after the notice is sent.

Question 2

Can your agreement with the client be just an email with an hourly rate and oral agreement?

Answer 2

No - its needs to follows the Code of ethics terms of appointment. Refer to NZRAB dicipline report 3

Question 3

If you calculated HIRB wrong and it gets discovered on site what steps should you take?

Answer 3

MG - Talk to insurer first, Acknowledge the mistake, communicate with all parties, try to get a RC amendement

Question 4

What would a typical compaint about an architect be about?

Answer 4

Typically, complaints are made on the basis that the architect has breached the Code of Minimum Standards of Ethical Conduct for Registered Architects or has practised in a negligent or incompetent manner, as described in section 25 of the Registered Architects Act 2005.

Question 5

What is the complaints process of the NZRAB?

Answer 5

Complaints Process Overview:

1. Check completeness; notify Registered Architect.
2. Complaints Officer investigates; reports to Investigating Committee Chair.
3. Investigating Committee formed if grounds found; seeks more info; shared meeting costs.
4. Suggests mediation or arbitration for dispute resolution.
5. Committee recommends to Board; decides dismissal or Disciplinary Committee.
6. Disciplinary Committee follows Registered Architects Rules 2006; recommends dismissal or penalty.
7. Registered Architect can appeal in Court.

Question 6

What is the typical example of a situation where clients complain about architects?

Answer 6

The Architect has designed a buildining that is outside of the client budget

1. Client hires architect for house design with a fixed budget.
2. Architect completes plans; client pays fee.
3. Construction quotes reveal costs double the available funds.
4. Client is left with paid plans but an unaffordable project.

Question 7

What can complaints be about?

Answer 7

1. Complaints against architects under the Registered Architects Act 2005 must align with section 25.
2. Common reasons include professional negligence, incompetence, or violation of the Code of Minimum Standards of Ethical Conduct for Registered Architects (provided on the brochure’s back).

Question 8

Why do situations where Architects design a house that is outside of the clients budget occur?

Answer 8

1. Many projects lack a clear commissioning document, creating uncertainty in expectations and responsibilities.
2. Clients often change instructions without architects warning about potential budget issues.
3. Communication between architects and clients is often informal and lacks proper documentation.

Question 9

How do you avoid situations where Architects design a house that is outside of the clients budget?

Answer 9

Have a Comisioning Document (AAS)

Make sure the client is realistic

Make sure the client knows the likely costs as the project develops (Get QS involved)

Keep communicating and never let problems fester

Question 10

What should you do if the client refuses to pay for a QS?

Answer 10

If this happens, for your protection make clear in writing that this is against your advice and that it creates extra risk.

(you might choose to get one for yourself?)

Question 11

What do I do if the client insists on things that are unrealistic or unwise?

Answer 11

• Acknowledge the emotional significance of projects for clients
• Clearly communicate risks associated with scope creep and potential consequences
• Warn clients about the risks and complications of resource consent processes (if pushing boundaries)
• Educate clients about potential cost, time, and community implications
• Recognize the need to avoid clients who may be difficult, demanding, or unreasonable
• Prioritize professionalism and considerate communication in dealings with inexperienced clients

Question 12

What do I do if things are going wrong?

Answer 12

• Recognize when you’re facing difficulties in your work
• Seek assistance or advice from colleagues in the profession
• Be open to guidance and independent input from sources like the NZIA
• Don’t ignore problems; they won’t improve by doing nothing