The list is endless.

It should be very clear therefore that if a ‘variation’ occurs which requires the architect to produce more work then obviously that work would need to be paid for. The rules are very straightforward and are covered in the RIAI Agreements (the following is for when the architect is paid on a percentage of the construction cost):

1. After building work is done, the value [on which the architects fee is based] is taken from the final total construction cost for the work.

2. The architect is paid on a basis of the final total construction cost (described above) which obviously includes variations, “including fitting-out and loose furniture work with which the architect is involved.”. The last few words here are very important ‘which the architect is involved’; there needs to therefore be some form of coordination of drawings or additional drawings/detail drawing, coordinated administrative work or additional site supervision/inspection in order for this to be the case.

Contrary to popular belief, as an architect I do not want to push the price up in order to get more money; I want to deliver a project on time and to the clients budget – if the client wants to spend more on any particular aspect that requires additional work, responsibility or inspection then I should be paid for that work.

Here's a corner of a recently poured raft foundation; I check levels and dimensions, steel fixings, formwork and Radon barrier with structural engineer prior to pouring and then a check after then check again after pour prior to blockwork construction for curing.

A special thanks to Architects Isabel Barros and Form Architecture and as always Bob Borson for their input on this topic.

Comments as always welcome…