Continuing our discussion on this blog about Furniture,
Furnishings and Equipment or FF&E-this time on agreements for FF& E
Services.
The American Institute of Architects Handbook of Professional
Practice points out that clients with considerable FF&E selection and
procurement experience and facility management resources often have their own
agreements for FF&E services. When clients require the use of such
agreements, architects are strongly advised to review them carefully, including
review by the firm’s attorney.
When the client does not require use of its own agreement for
FF&E services, architects may use one of two AIA standard forms of
agreement for this purpose. When FF&E acquisition services are part of interior
design services, B171 ID-2003, Standard Form of Agreement Between Owner and
Architect for Furniture, Furnishings, and Equipment Design Services, can be
used.
The FF&E increments of work in this agreement are closely
aligned with those for building design and construction. If FF&E services
are provided as a stand-alone service, architects can use B175 ID-2003,
Standard Form of Agreement Between the Owner and the Architect for Furniture,
Furnishings, and Equipment Design Services.
Does that make the architect a reseller?
The AIA proffers that some clients desire a single point of
project control or turnkey service for FF&E selection and acquisition. In
such cases, a design firm can act as a reseller of furniture by entering into
purchasing agreements directly with manufacturers. In this role, the design firm takes on responsibilities and
tasks generally provided by furniture dealers.
We would argue that this brokered arrangement requires
additional skills and knowledge and proper disclosure of the firm’s responsibilities
to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest.
A pitfall for sure.
It is also important for architects to consult with their
insurance brokers to ensure they are adequately insured for providing these
services and to evaluate any risk or liability associated with them.
Companies like ours take out all the guesswork here, and
provide a valuable source for such services and a rates that won't compromise
your respective project. Pick wisely I
say.
For more on how GET,LLC through our friends at Savoy Contract Furniture and teaming partner
American Hotel Register can assist you with all your FF&E needs-including lighting-please check out our website at
www.get-guam.com or give us a call at 671-483-0789 to discuss the best solution
for your facility. All of our solutions are
Made in America!