What Happens After Your Building Approval?
- Studio Two Architecture
- May 23
- 2 min read
Understanding your Architect’s role and support options during construction
You’ve Reached a Milestone
Your final drawings are complete, and your project has received Construction Certificate (CC) approval. That’s a major step — congratulations!
Up to this point, Studio Two Architecture & Design has delivered:
Site analysis and concept design
Planning and council advice
Construction documentation
Coordination to obtain CC approval
Unless you've engaged us for Contract Administration (CA), our formal involvement ends here.
What Is Contract Administration?
Contract Administration (CA) is the next phase of professional services where we oversee construction on your behalf, helping to ensure your builder delivers what was agreed.
CA includes:
Site inspections to monitor construction quality
Assessment of progress claims
Advice on design queries or changes
Review of shop drawings and variations
Certification of completion and defect rectification
Under both the ACA Short Form Agreement and AIA Client Architect Agreement, this is a separate and optional service.
Without CA, What Are the Risks?
Without your architect involved during construction:
You rely solely on the builder to manage quality
Variations may go unchecked
Compliance with drawings may not be monitored
Disputes can be harder to resolve
“The Architect’s obligations under this agreement exclude (and the Fee does not cover) providing equipment, material or services not expressly referred to in the Services Schedule.” — Clause 1.3, ACA Short Form Agreement
“The Client releases the Architect from any liability... arising out of or in connection to the performance of the Services…” — Clause 6, ACA Short Form Agreement
Optional Support Services
If full Contract Administration isn’t right for you, we offer flexible support services, such as:
Service | Description | Cost |
Stage Review Visits | Key milestone inspections (e.g., frame, lock-up) | Fixed fee per visit |
Variation Advice | Independent review of changes or substitutions | Hourly or flat rate |
Builder Queries | Clarifying RFIs, detailing issues, or product selections | Hourly or retainer |
Dispute Guidance | Strategy support and documentation | As needed |
We can tailor a level of support that fits your project, budget, and risk appetite.
Learn More
Explore more about your rights and architectural services:
Association of Consulting Architects (ACA): www.aca.org.au
Australian Institute of Architects (AIA): www.architecture.com.au
NSW Fair Trading – Building Contracts: fairtrading.nsw.gov.au
Considering Extra Support?
If you're unsure whether to continue with architectural support during the build, we’d be happy to discuss options that suit your needs. A little guidance can prevent big problems later.
This handout is for general client guidance only and does not replace the terms of your signed agreement. Please refer to your ACA Short Form Agreement for the full scope and conditions of services provided.
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