Legal Information for Architectural plans
LEGAL NOTICE – ARCHITECTURAL PLANS & DRAWINGS
The following information applies to Draconis ArchiVision and our partner Cefn Gwlad Designs Ltd who are our primary supplier of Architectural plans.
1. Introduction
This Legal Notice governs the use, reliance upon, and interpretation of all architectural plans, drawings, layouts, specifications, and associated documentation (“Architectural Plans”) produced by Draconis Archivision and Cefn Gwlad Designs Ltd (“the Company”, “we”, “us”, “our”).
By commissioning, accessing, using, or relying upon our Architectural Plans, you (“the Client”, “you”, “your”, or any third party) agree to the terms set out in this Notice.
2. Purpose of Architectural Plans
2.1 Architectural Plans are prepared for the specific project, site, and brief agreed at the time of instruction.
2.2 Plans may be produced for:
Planning applications
Design development
Visualisation reference
Client approval
Marketing or feasibility studies
2.3 Unless expressly stated in writing, plans are not construction-issue drawings and must not be relied upon for building works.
3. Construction Reliance Disclaimer
3.1 Architectural Plans must not be used for construction, fabrication, or installation unless clearly marked “Construction Issue”, “For Build”, or equivalent.
3.2 The Client and contractor are responsible for obtaining:
Structural engineer drawings
Building regulations drawings
Detailed construction details
Services (MEP) designs
Manufacturer specifications
3.3 We accept no liability for works undertaken directly from non-construction drawings.
4. Accuracy of Information
4.1 Plans are produced using information provided by the Client, consultants, surveyors, and third parties.
4.2 While reasonable skill and care is exercised, we do not warrant the absolute accuracy of:
Site boundaries
Ground levels
Existing structures
Utilities or underground services
Rights of way or easements
4.3 The Client must verify all dimensions and site data prior to construction.
5. Dimensional Tolerances
5.1 Do not scale from drawings. Written dimensions must always be used.
5.2 All dimensions must be checked on site before procurement or construction.
5.3 We accept no liability for errors arising from scaling, misinterpretation, or failure to verify dimensions.
6. Planning & Regulatory Approval
6.1 Planning approval is subject to local authority assessment and is outside our control.
6.2 We do not guarantee:
Planning permission approval
Building regulations approval
Listed building consent
Conservation area consent
6.3 The Client remains responsible for statutory approvals unless separately contracted.
7. Design Development
7.1 Architectural design is iterative and subject to change.
7.2 Plans may evolve due to:
Planning authority feedback
Engineering requirements
Budget constraints
Site discoveries
Client revisions
7.3 We accept no liability for costs arising from design changes.
8. Third-Party Use
8.1 Architectural Plans are prepared solely for the commissioning Client and project.
8.2 No third party may rely upon our plans without written collateral warranty.
8.3 We accept no duty of care to contractors, developers, purchasers, or consultants not in direct contract with us.
9. Intellectual Property & Copyright
9.1 All Architectural Plans remain the intellectual property of the Company.
9.2 Copyright is retained under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988.
9.3 Plans may not be:
Reused on other sites
Amended by third parties
Resold or distributed
Used after project termination
Without prior written consent and settlement of all fees.
10. Unauthorised Amendments
We accept no liability where drawings are altered, edited, or redesigned by third parties without our written approval.
11. Coordination with Consultants
11.1 Our plans may require coordination with:
Structural engineers
Civil engineers
MEP consultants
Fire consultants
Planning consultants
11.2 We are not liable for clashes, discrepancies, or omissions arising from uncoordinated third-party information.
12. As-Built Conditions
Where plans relate to existing buildings, concealed conditions may not be visible at survey stage. We accept no liability for inaccuracies arising from hidden or inaccessible areas.
13. Digital File Use
13.1 CAD/BIM files are issued for convenience only.
13.2 We do not guarantee compatibility with all software platforms.
13.3 PDF drawings take precedence over CAD files in the event of discrepancy.
14. Limitation of Liability
14.1 Services are performed with reasonable skill and care in accordance with industry standards.
14.2 Our total liability shall be limited to the fees paid for the Architectural Plans.
14.3 We shall not be liable for:
Construction costs or defects
Project delays
Loss of profit or development value
Contractor pricing errors
Material procurement mistakes
Indirect or consequential losses
15. Professional Responsibility
The Client and appointed contractor remain responsible for:
Safe construction methods
Temporary works
Site supervision
Compliance with CDM Regulations (where applicable)
Health & Safety management
16. Insurance
Where applicable, we maintain Professional Indemnity Insurance. Liability remains subject to the limitations within this Notice and our appointment agreement.
17. Document Status
Drawing status codes (e.g., Concept, Planning, Tender, Construction) must be reviewed before reliance. Misuse of drawings outside their issued status voids liability.
18. Governing Law
This Legal Notice is governed by the laws of England and Wales. Disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of those courts.
