Standard of Care is a fundamental legal and professional benchmark that governs the conduct of architects, engineers, and other design professionals. It represents the degree of skill, knowledge, and judgment ordinarily exercised by members of the profession practicing under similar circumstances, in the same or a similar locality, and at the same time. This standard does not imply perfection or infallibility, nor does it constitute a guarantee of specific outcomes. Rather, it acknowledges that design professionals are expected to apply reasonable diligence and competence in the performance of their services, consistent with the practices generally accepted by their peers.
Courts and arbitrators often evaluate whether a design professional has met the standard of care by considering expert testimony, industry guidelines, and customary practice. A failure to meet this standard—such as through errors, omissions, or a lack of coordination—may constitute professional negligence if it results in harm, including construction defects, delays, or increased costs. As such, understanding and adhering to the standard of care is essential for managing risk, upholding professional integrity, and fulfilling contractual and ethical obligations.
Please see ae ProNet’s website HERE for more information on the standard of care from Laurie Randolph, Esq..