design & Construction Team

DESIGN TEAM

In residential construction, a design team is a group of professionals who work together to plan, design, and coordinate the construction of a residential building or project. The design team typically includes architects, engineers,building designers, interior designers, draftsman and other specialists who are responsible for creating the overall look, feel, and functionality of the building. Their job is to ensure that all aspects of the project, including building codes, zoning requirements, and construction materials, are considered and incorporated into the design. The design team works closely with the contractor and other stakeholders to ensure that the project is completed on time, within budget, and to the required standards.

There are several types of design professionals in construction, including:

Architects:  a professional who designs buildings and other structures, taking into account their aesthetic, functional, and technical requirements. Architects are responsible for creating drawings and specifications that detail the design of a building and its systems, and they work closely with engineers, contractors, and other design professionals to ensure that the building is constructed according to their plans. In some states, an Architect can also perform Structural Designs and calculations

Engineer: Engineers play a crucial role in the construction process. They are responsible for designing and planning the construction project, ensuring that the design meets the required building codes and regulations, and that the structure is safe, functional, and efficient. Engineers also ensure that the construction project meets all relevant safety and environmental regulations, and that the construction site is safe for workers and the public. They also conduct regular inspections to ensure that the work is being carried out according to the design and that the structure is being built according to the required standards.

Building designer: They typically have a professional degree in Architecture and are trained in the principles of design and construction and have a deep understanding of building codes and regulations. Although not required  certification for building designers, they may be obtained through professional organizations like AIBD and AIA 

Interior designers: They focus on the design of the interior spaces of a building, including its layout, furnishings, and aesthetics.  A certification for Interior designers may be obtained through professional organizations like ASID & IIDA

Surveyors: They measure and map the land, ensuring that construction projects are built on the correct site and that they meet local regulations and requirements.

Draftsman: A draftsman in residential design is a professional who creates technical drawings and plans for residential buildings. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create accurate and detailed drawings of floor plans, elevations, sections, and construction details for homes.The role of the draftsman is essential in the planning and construction of residential buildings, as their drawings serve as the blueprint for the construction process.

Owner (You) : In residential construction, the owner of the building is an important part of the design team, especially if they are involved in the planning and design process. The owner typically has a significant investment in the project and a vested interest in its outcome, so it's important that they are involved in the decision-making process. However, the level of involvement of the owner in the design team may vary based on factors such as their experience and expertise, their relationship with the other team members, and their role in the project. In some cases, the owner may take a more hands-on approach and be involved in the day-to-day decision-making, while in other cases they may delegate most of the design responsibilities to the professional team members.

An agent for owner (AFO):  is a professional who acts on behalf of a property owner in the construction process. The AFO is responsible for managing the construction project on behalf of the owner and ensuring that the project is completed on time, within budget, and to the owner's satisfaction. The AFO is responsible for coordinating with designers, contractors, and other construction professionals to ensure that the project is completed according to the owner's specifications and expectations. The AFO also serves as a liaison between the owner and the construction team and communicates with the owner about any updates or changes to the project.

                             DESIGN PROFESSIONAL w/ PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE

"Hiring a design professionals with Professional Liability Insurance or Errors and Omissions insurance is crucial to ensure protection against any potential errors or oversights in their work. It is important to ask for proof of this insurance before starting a project, as typically only licensed and certified designers carry this type of coverage, providing added assurance for clients." 

Professional Liability Insurance, also known as Errors and Omissions insurance, is an important factor to consider when choosing a design professional for your project. This insurance protects clients against financial loss in the event that the designer makes a mistake or overlooks important details in their work. In the design industry, even the most experienced and skilled professionals can make errors, and having Professional Liability Insurance in place can provide a safety net in the event of an unexpected issue.

By requiring your design professional to carry this insurance, you are taking a proactive step to protect your investment and ensure that any potential problems are addressed in a responsible and efficient manner.

In short, requiring Professional Liability Insurance from your design professional is a simple and effective way to mitigate risk and ensure the success of your project."