What Exactly Is an Architect of Record?
An
of record can either be a firm or an individual that is listed on a building permit for a construction project they have been hired to work on. The permit will be obtained by sending an application, project drawings, and building specifications to a local regulatory authority that is responsible for the area. There can be more than one working on a project, larger firms can often set up a working relationship with local architects, whose name would appear on both the application and permit documents.
Special skills are often needed for construction in specific areas, like those that are seismically active or come with a certain terrain. Local architects will oversee project operations, which makes them the
architects
of record. For example, in the United States, such a status means the firm is in control of the project, and according to the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards, requires these architects to make sure all the proper legal requirements are followed, even when they are going to be outsourced. It outlines criteria also for who is responsible for the entire project.
Under the aforementioned guidelines, architects of record must always be in control of what is put into the documents, must know all the contents, and be professional when preparing them. They must keep accurate records to ensure these criteria are met for at least 5 years. Quality of communication is emphasized also and, with the establishment of permits, email communications must be set up between all the parties involved in the job.
The
architect
must be open to sharing technical files via File Transfer Protocol servers for the faster communication. Meetings and reviews via the Internet are a good way for all parties involved to keep abreast of the project. The NCARB Model Law and Regulations will help to guide architects on how to adhere to these rules when documents are prepared off-site. If you are looking for help with your project in the Reno, NV area, please feel free to call John Lundy Architect today at (775) 440-4494.