Intro
1.1.1
This section clarifies that the rule and regulation This rule applies to architects working individually or as
part of a group practice, such as a sole proprietorship or a partnership/corporation. Both must follow the
requirements of R.A. No. 9266 (The Architecture Act of 2004) and its regulations.
1.1.2
This section outlines that Foreign architects who want to work in the Philippines must comply with the
rules of R.A. No. 9266, including working with a local licensed architect. They need to secure a
Temporary/Special Permit (TSP) and a work permit from the (DoLE) before starting any projects in the
country.
1.1.3
This section states that BPO (Business Process Outsourcing) and KPO(Knowledge Process Outsourcing)
companies registered in the Philippines that serve international clients cannot provide architectural
services for local projects unless they are registered as architectural firms under Philippine law, following
the rules of R.A. No. 9266.
1.1.4
This section indicates that the scope of an architect’s deliverables may be expanded or adjusted based
on the project's needs or the architect’s expertise and experience, allowing flexibility in the services
provided
1.2 Regular Design Services of an Architect
In this section it stated that The Architect acts as the client's advisor and representative, translating their
needs into well-designed spaces. Their role starts with understanding the client's requirements and
covers the entire project lifecycle—from analysis and design to documentation and supervision—until
the project is completed and handed over to the client.
2. SCOPE OF SERVICES
The **Project Definition Phase**
In this phase is when the project requirements are established. The architect consults with the owner to
understand their vision and needs, gathers necessary information, refines the space requirements into a
clear architectural plan, and provides an initial estimate of the construction cost. This phase ensures
both the owner and architect have a shared understanding of the project's scope and technical needs, as
well as the related professional fees.
The **Schematic Design Phase**
In this phase it involves creating initial design concepts based on the project’s requirements. The
architect reviews the owner’s program, timeline, budget, and site, and suggests ways to deliver the
project. They then develop preliminary drawings that outline potential design solutions and provide a
general project description for the owner's approval. Additionally, the architect presents an estimated
construction cost based on current market rates.
The **Design Development Phase**
In this phase is where the builds on the approved schematic designs to create more detailed plans. The
architect prepares documents including detailed drawings (plans, elevations, sections), outlines the
specifications for materials and building systems (structural, electrical, mechanical, etc.), and creates a
preliminary layout of these systems. An updated estimate of the construction cost is also provided to the
owner during this phase.
Contract Document Phase
The Contract Document Phase finalizes all documentation needed for the project. The architect creates
detailed construction drawings and contract documents that specify the work for various systems and
compiles technical specifications on materials and construction methods. They provide seven copies of
these documents to the owner for building permit applications, update the construction cost estimate as
needed, and assist the owner in obtaining approvals from relevant government authorities.
Bidding or Negotiation Phase
The Bidding or Negotiation Phase involves the architect preparing bid documents, including contract
forms, construction documents, and instructions for bidders. They assist the owner in creating a list of
potential contractors and guide them through the process from selecting bidders to awarding the
construction contract.
Construction Phase
The Construction Phase entails the architect overseeing project execution by handling claims from the
owner and contractors, preparing change orders, and collecting guarantees from contractors. They
conduct regular site visits to monitor progress and quality, reporting any defects without taking
responsibility for contractor failures. The architect determines payment amounts based on work
completed, issuing payment certificates accordingly. If full-time supervision is required, a separate
supervisor must be hired, with fees agreed upon by the owner and architect.
3. MANNER OF PROVIDING SERVICES
The architect can enter into a contract with the owner in two ways:
1. Single Contract: The architect has a direct contract with the owner, while sub-consultancy
contracts are established between the architect and other professionals.
2. Separate Contracts: The architect and engineering or allied professionals each hold individual
contracts with the owner.
In both scenarios, each state-regulated professional retains their own responsibilities and liabilities, and
the architect does not take on the responsibilities or liabilities of the other professionals.
Project Classification
Architectural work is categorized by complexity and creativity to meet client needs while adhering to
various constraints. This classification helps determine fair architect fees.
4.1 Group 1
Simple Buildings: Structures like armories, bakeries, parking garages, and warehouses with
straightforward designs.
4.2 Group 2
Moderate Complexity: Includes art galleries, office buildings, banks, and recreational facilities, featuring
more complex designs.
4.3 Group 3
Exceptional Buildings: Highly complex structures such as airports, hospitals, auditoriums, and hotels
requiring advanced planning.
4.4 Group 4
Residential Buildings: Comprises single-family homes, duplexes, and small apartment complexes.
4.5 Group 5
Monumental Structures: Significant buildings like museums and memorials with unique architectural
features.
4.6 Group 6
Repetitive Construction: Projects using the same design for similar buildings without modifications.
4.7 Group 7
Housing Projects: Developments with multiple residential units on one site using a single set of plans.
4.8 Group 8
Detailed Projects: Designs that include intricate components like built-ins and architectural interiors.
4.9 Group 9
Alterations and Expansions: Modifications or renovations of existing buildings from Groups 1 to 5.
4.10 Group 10
Consultation Services: The architect provides technical opinions and advice on architectural matters.
Method of Compensation
The Architect's compensation reflects their skills, experience, and the nature of services provided, and
may be calculated in several ways:
5.1 Percentage of Project Construction Cost (PCC)
The Architect's fee is calculated as a percentage of the total project construction cost, detailed in
the Architect’s Guidelines.
5.2 Multiple of Direct Personnel Expenses
This method is used for non-creative tasks (e.g., accounting, data gathering) and is based on the
technical hours spent.
The fee is calculated by multiplying the total costs of technical services by a multiplier (ranging
from 1.5 to 2.5) to account for overhead and profit.
Additional expenses (transportation, living allowances) incurred by consultants are charged to
the client.
The Architect must inform the client of rates and the applicable multiplier at the project's outset.
5.3 Professional Fee Plus Expenses
This compensation method is used for ongoing relationships involving multiple projects. It includes a
fixed fee plus reimbursement for the Architect's technical time and overhead. A clear agreement on the
work scope is essential for setting a fair fee.
5.4 Lump Sum or Fixed Fee
This method is often applied to government projects due to the increased paperwork and time required.
5.5 Per Diem, Honorarium Plus Reimbursable Expenses
For tasks requiring the Architect's personal time, such as:
Attending meetings or conferences
Conducting site inspections
Consulting on investments
The Architect may receive compensation on a per diem basis, along with an honorarium and
reimbursement for travel, accommodation, and other expenses.
5.6 Mixed Methods of Compensation
The SPP allows for various compensation methods for a single project. Each project should be assessed
to determine the most suitable compensation approach.
Owner’s Responsibilities
Mas pinaiksing explanation
the section outline and stated that The Owner must provide clear project requirements and designate
an authorized representative if needed. They are responsible for promptly reviewing documents
submitted by the Architect to avoid delays, issuing orders to the General Contractor only through the
Architect. The Owner should obtain or direct the Architect to acquire necessary site surveys and full
information on utilities, zoning, and soil conditions at their expense. They must also ensure timely
payment for architectural and engineering services, cover costs for specialty consulting services, and
arrange for legal and other necessary services. Additionally, the Owner is responsible for reimbursable
expenses and taxes related to the project. If any issues arise that could hinder project success, the
Owner must notify the Architect promptly.
The Owner plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of the project by fulfilling several key
responsibilities:
1. Provide Project Requirements: The Owner must give complete and clear information about their
needs and expectations for the project.
2. Designate a Representative: when necessary, the Owner should appoint a representative who is
authorized to make decisions on their behalf.
3. Timely Review and Decisions: The Owner should promptly review documents submitted by the
Architect to avoid delays. Communication with the General Contractor should be routed through
the Architect.
4. The Owner is responsible for obtaining a certified survey of the site, which includes necessary
topographical data, existing structures, and information about utility lines and zoning
compliance.
5. Payment for Services: The Owner must ensure timely payment for all architectural and
engineering services required for the project.
6. Specialty Consulting Services: The Owner is responsible for paying for additional consulting
services related to acoustic, communication, electronic, and other specialized systems needed
for the project.
7. Legal and Other Services: The Owner should arrange and cover costs for any legal, auditing,
insurance, and other professional services necessary for the project.
8. Reimbursable Expenses and Taxes: The Owner must pay for all reimbursable expenses incurred
during the project and any applicable taxes, excluding income tax, imposed on the Architect's
services.
9. Notification of Issues: If the Owner becomes aware of any issues that could affect the project's
success, they must notify the Architect in writing without delay.
Other Conditions on Services
Mas pinaiksing explanation
The section outlines the conditions governing the Architect's services, detailing the Owner's
responsibilities for costs associated with additional services, travel, and document requests, as well as
stipulating that the Architect's fees are based on the Project Construction Cost (PCC) and may increase
for additional work or changes requested by the Owner; it emphasizes the ownership of documents,
the need for proper signage approval, and the importance of maintaining accurate cost records
throughout the project.
This section outlines the additional conditions related to the Architect's services, fees, and the Owner's
responsibilities regarding various project aspects:
1. Architect’s Fee: The fee is primarily based on the Project Construction Cost (PCC). If additional
services are required, the Architect will charge extra.
2. Additional Services: If specialized services (e.g., acoustic or illumination engineering) are
needed, the Architect will recommend service providers. The Owner will cover these costs,
which will also incur a coordination fee payable to the Architect.
3. Modeling and Presentations: The Architect may propose creating scale models or 3D
presentations, with the Owner responsible for the costs and an associated coordination fee.
4. Travel Expenses: If the Architect or their representative must work more than 50 kilometers
from their office, the Owner will be charged a per diem plus travel and living expenses.
5. Extra Contract Documents: The Owner must pay for any additional sets of contract documents
requested beyond the initial copies.
6. Changes by the Owner: If changes requested by the Owner after the Architect's designs have
been approved require extra work, the Owner will compensate the Architect for the additional
time and resources.
7. Abandonment or Suspension: If the project is abandoned or suspended, the Owner must pay
for the work completed up to that point.
8. Project Completion: The Architect’s main role is to prepare the architectural designs and
construction documents, which constitute 90% of their work. If the Owner fails to implement
these plans, they owe the Architect 90% of the fee.
9. Construction Timing: If different sections of the building are completed at different times, fees
may be adjusted accordingly. If construction is suspended for over six months, the fee for the
remaining work may double.
10. Specialist Consultants: Any additional specialist consultants must be approved by the Architect,
and their fees will not reduce the Architect’s compensation.
11. Separate Design Services: If the Owner requests the design of additional features (e.g.,
cabinetry), the Architect will charge extra based on the PCC.
12. Construction Supervision: If needed, the Owner will hire full-time construction supervisors, who
will report to the Architect and the Owner regarding project progress.
13. Cost Estimates: The Architect will provide cost estimates but will not assume responsibility for
their accuracy due to external factors affecting labor and material costs.
14. Government Taxes: Any applicable taxes related to the Architect’s services will be the Owner’s
responsibility.
15. Ownership of Documents: All documents and designs created by the Architect are their
intellectual property and cannot be reproduced without written consent.
16. Cost Records: The Owner must provide the Architect with expense records during construction
and a summary of all costs upon project completion.
17. Signage Approval: The Architect must approve all signage related to the project to maintain
safety and aesthetic standards.
18. Project Construction Cost (PCC): The PCC includes all costs related to building construction,
utilities, and installations but excludes professional fees for the Architect and consultants.
19. Project Development Cost: This encompasses all costs related to construction, professional fees,
permits, site acquisition, and financing.
