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Updated almost 2 years ago on . Most recent reply

User Stats

55
Posts
17
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Victor G.
  • Contractor
  • San Diego, CA
17
Votes |
55
Posts

Lame duck architect not helping me finish my project design to get final my project.

Victor G.
  • Contractor
  • San Diego, CA
Posted

I hired an architect who design my garage conversion/adu. He does this work on the side of his actual W2 architectural firm job.  The drawings were completed and submitted and approved. I have approved permitted plans in hand. I started the project and am about 90% completed with the construction.  My city inspector says that I do not have enough electrical capacity on my electrical panel; therefore I have to add a gas line.  This will trigger a revision to my Title 24 calculations.  I have no problems with this and would gladly accept the change.

I brought it up to my architect 6 months ago. I have messaged my architect but hasn't communicated with me in months. I 've tried texting, calling and emails.  I got one message in 3 months stating that he's been too busy with his w2 job. This has been delaying the completion of my project for 6 months now.  

I don't know what to do next.

Isn't the architect the designer of record the only one to do this revision?  I've asked him if I can help him, pay him, or refer me to another architect to no avail. I get crickets in return. 

 I was told to send him a certified letter in the mail for 72hr response otherwise it would be a breach of contract.

Should I go visit him at his w2 firm and ask him in person?  Should I take him to small claims court?

Please advise. 

  • Victor G.
  • Most Popular Reply

    User Stats

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    Chris Seveney
    • Investor
    • Virginia
    16,014
    Votes |
    18,580
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    Chris Seveney
    • Investor
    • Virginia
    ModeratorReplied

    @Victor G.

    Question: what was his contractual scope of work? If it was do get drawing submitted and approved then he did his job. If he was not responsible or doing construction administration then this is a scope gap, so I would first confirm scope before sending threatening letters

    I would find another architect or MEP engineer to resubmit the revision.

    • Chris Seveney
    business profile image
    7e investments
    5.0 stars
    16 Reviews

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