Freelance Architect Contract Template (UK 2025)

When You Need This Contract

Freelance architect contracts must address the regulated nature of the profession, professional indemnity insurance requirements, RIBA work stage definitions, and the specific design liability that architects carry. The contract must specify which RIBA stages are covered, the basis of fees, design copyright and licence arrangements, and coordination with other consultants. Architects carry significant professional liability for their designs, making PI insurance and liability provisions critically important.

Key Clauses

• RIBA work stages covered with clear scope boundaries
• Professional indemnity insurance at required minimum levels
• Design copyright retention with licence to the client to build
• Fee basis covering stage fees, expenses, and additional services
• Coordination obligations with structural engineers and other consultants

What to Watch Out For

• Not specifying which RIBA stages are included, leading to disputes about the scope of the architectural services
• Failing to confirm adequate professional indemnity insurance cover appropriate to the project value

Sample Clauses

• Sample RIBA scope clause: 'The Architect shall provide services for RIBA Stages [1-4: Preparation and Briefing through to Technical Design]. Services for subsequent stages including Construction and Handover are not included and may be agreed separately. Each stage shall be completed before the next commences, with client sign-off required at each stage gate.'
• Sample design copyright clause: 'The Architect retains copyright in all designs and drawings. Upon payment of all fees, the Client is granted an irrevocable licence to use the designs for the construction, maintenance, and alteration of the building at the specified site. The licence does not extend to reproduction of the designs for other projects.'