Fall 2008 Vol 33, No 3

Abstract: As energy costs escalate, more building owners expect their architects and engineers to provide advice related to sustainability. When owners rely on that advice to guide their decisions, unmet expectations create a new source of risk for the design professional. It is important for owners to understand the consequences of their sustainable design decisions and the degree to which reliance on the design professional’s advice is prudent. Similarly, design professionals must understand the impact sustainable design principles have on client expectations and the design professional’s own evolving standard of care. This article outlines the foundation for successful management of this risk for both owner and design professional.