ABSTRACT
The Royal Institute of British Architects Professional Services Contracts (PSCs) 2018 provide comprehensive contract terms and are suitable where an Architect/Consultant undertakes a commission for services on projects using a traditional form of procurement. Standard forms are fair and balanced in the interests of the parties and have many advantages. They are less expensive and more convenient than bespoke contracts, with detailed and comprehensive guidance based on legal opinion, often tested in the courts. Contracts drawn up by Clients or their legal advisers are most likely to transfer risk to the appointee, i.e. the Architect/Consultant. Once the type of Client, the type, size and complexity of the project and the form of procurement have been considered, the appropriate PSC form needs to be selected based on the outcome of the discussions.
