Question

As per the Handbook of Professional Documents 2015, Council of Architecture, India, architects are liable \(\underline{\hspace{2cm}}\).

• A. If the building is used for any other purpose than the one for which it was designed
• B. If any unauthorised changes or illegal modifications are made by the owner(s)/occupant(s)
• C. If the client suffers damage/loss due to lack of proper professional service
• D. If the architect fails to attain the standard of care as prescribed by law

Hint:

Architect liability arises from negligence or failure to meet the professional standard of care—not from how the client later uses or modifies the building.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C, D

The COA Handbook states that architects are responsible for maintaining the professional standard of care during their services.
They are liable if their professional negligence, error, or omission results in financial loss or damage to the client.
Thus option (C) directly addresses liability arising from lack of proper professional service.

Option (D) is also correct because architects must legally meet accepted professional standards; failure to do so constitutes professional misconduct.

Options (A) and (B) relate to actions of clients or building occupants, not the architect, and therefore do not create architect liability.