Non-registered architect /designer

scunners

Hi, we are planning to renovate the downstairs of our house, involving some layout changes (knocking down dividing walls, converting garage, building a downstairs loo, new kitchen etc.) and possibly a small extension. We would like to take on a designer and project manager to do this. We met someone recommended by a friend who can do this and we got on great and she had great ideas, so we'd love to use her. However, the architect let me know that she has a degree in architecture and extensive experience but is not registered with the RIAI, explaining that she is close to retirement and had issues with the changes in building regulations introduced in 2014. She explained that this would cause issues with getting finance from the bank, but we are hoping to use savings and only apply for a loan if really necessary. Until we get plans and a costing we don’t know this for sure. She's also charging a lower rate than the other architect we consulted.
So, are there any other issues (legal or insurance or other) in using a non-registered architect (I know it’s a protected title so I’m using it as a shortcut)?
Also as a more general question, who is actually liable if something goes wrong with renovation work , especially if it affects the structure of the house? I don’t know if this can happen, I’m just wondering. Is it the builder or the designer / architect liable or is it us? Is everyone expected to have indemnity insurance and should this be in the contracts? Before I go back to her with these questions I thought I’d ask here.
Many thanks.

sydthebeat

scunners wrote: »

Hi, we are planning to renovate the downstairs of our house, involving some layout changes (knocking down dividing walls, converting garage, building a downstairs loo, new kitchen etc.) and possibly a small extension. We would like to take on a designer and project manager to do this. We met someone recommended by a friend who can do this and we got on great and she had great ideas, so we'd love to use her. However, the architect let me know that she has a degree in architecture and extensive experience but is not registered with the RIAI, explaining that she is close to retirement and had issues with the changes in building regulations introduced in 2014. She explained that this would cause issues with getting finance from the bank, but we are hoping to use savings and only apply for a loan if really necessary. Until we get plans and a costing we don’t know this for sure. She's also charging a lower rate than the other architect we consulted.
So, are there any other issues (legal or insurance or other) in using a non-registered architect (I know it’s a protected title so I’m using it as a shortcut)?
Also as a more general question, who is actually liable if something goes wrong with renovation work , especially if it affects the structure of the house? I don’t know if this can happen, I’m just wondering. Is it the builder or the designer / architect liable or is it us? Is everyone expected to have indemnity insurance and should this be in the contracts? Before I go back to her with these questions I thought I’d ask here.
Many thanks.

Once your designer has the adequate Professional Indemnity insurance then she is fine to work with.... even past the 'design stage'
Builders do not have professional indemnity insurance (though many would argue they should) but they should have the other construction insurances in place when working on your home (site insurances, public liability etc)

There is no problem at all using a "non registered" designer on your project. In my experience, also as a 'non registered' designer (im an architectural technician), there doesnt happen to be financial implications as banks have a wider net for accepted professionals than the restricted building control act.

scunners

Many thanks sydthebeat I'll follow that up with her - sounds good as I'd really like to go ahead with her.

scunners

Just remembered I meant to ask if it affects your HRI claim, if you're making one?

BryanF

scunners wrote: »

Just remembered I meant to ask if it affects your HRI claim, if you're making one?

Thats to do with builder

Metric Tensor

Your builder should have "product liability insurance" or else be registered with an appropriate building defect insurance scheme.

Both have good and bad points so get advice from your professional. If she's close to retirement she has almost certainly seen plenty to give you the right advice.

scunners

That's great, many thanks for the replies