Interior Architecture

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  • 1.  use of "existing specifications"

    Posted 09-05-2012 12:10 AM
    This message has been cross posted to the following Discussion Forums: Small Project Practitioners and Interior Architecture Committee .
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    Can someone tell me what the correct practice is regarding the use of specifications for an original project when a renovation is being performed.  We are renovating a space that was constructed 8 years ago.  We have a printed copy of the existing specifications (done by another architect).  We would like to refer to sections of the existing specs so that there is no confusion when we say "match existing".  Is there a problem referring to this document and reprinting certain sections for use in the renovation project?

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    Wendy Dunnam Tita AIA
    Principal
    Dunnam Tita, PLLC
    Austin TX
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  • 2.  RE:use of "existing specifications"

    Posted 09-06-2012 07:54 AM
    Wendy,

    Each individual state has different laws regarding these conditions.  In Florida, if the previous architect finished the project and was paid in full, the client's committment to the architect and vice-versa has been satisfied.  Since you state that the project is a renovation, I make that assumption.

    Regardless, the original architect owns the right (US Copyright laws) to the documents that the firm prepared for the project, including the specifications.  My best advice would be to contact the firm, let them know what you are doing and obtain, in writing, their permission to use the documents.  In most cases it will take you writing the letter and asking for the original architect of record to "sign-off" granting you permission to use the documents.

    I have done several projects where we have either taken over a defaulted project or a total remodel.  This has always been my approach to the issue when using the work of another architect.

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    Greg Burke, AIA
    President
    Gregory John Burke ' ARCHITECT, PA
    Vero Beach, Florida
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  • 3.  RE:use of "existing specifications"

    Posted 09-07-2012 10:21 AM
    Do not use the existing specifications.
    The specifications may not be accurate.
    The work may have been constructed differently.
    Additional work may have been performed and could also be non-conforming.
    Specify only your work and back-up only your work.

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    Claude Pullen AIA
    Naples FL
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    Original Message


  • 4.  RE:use of "existing specifications"

    Posted 09-06-2012 06:43 PM
    I would be cautious about using parts of an "existing" specification for at least three reasons:
    1. Some or all of the referenced performance standards and material and system testing standards may be out-of-date.
    2. Some of the originally-specified materials may no longer be available.
    3. Unless the "existing" specific is an accurate record of what was built (and who will guarantee that it is?), there may be differences between that document and the existing building.

    I believe the only reliable way to "match existing" conditions is to compare samples and performance data of proposed products to on-site original products and the operations, maintenance and warranty information. The trick will be in determining who is responsible for that comparison and therefore liable for any additional costs or delays associated with errors in the comparison. It may be possible to share that responsibility and liability between the owner, architect and contractor--perhaps by allowing one party to "propose" matching products and by requiring the other two parties to review and sign a statement of consent waiving their right to damages from any mismatch. In proposing comparable products, the original specification may be a valuable starting point, but I wouldn't consider it authoritative for a new construction project.

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    Sean Catherall AIA
    Integrated Property Services
    Bluffdale UT
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