Professional Practice Architecture Practice Test

Who has a civil liability under Article 1723 of the Civil Code for the architectural documents of a project?

1. Architect-of-Record

2. Consulting Architect

3. Architect-in-Charge of Construction

4. Civil Engineer

The correct answer is: Consulting Architect

The civil liability under Article 1723 of the Civil Code primarily falls upon the architect responsible for the design and documentation of a project. This responsibility includes ensuring that the architectural documents meet the necessary legal and professional standards. The role of the Consulting Architect is often associated with providing specialized advice and insights on a project rather than being the primary author or signer of the architectural documentation. In contrast, the Architect-of-Record bears the ultimate responsibility for the project's documentation and often signs off on plans, giving them financial and legal accountability. The Architect-in-Charge of Construction oversees the construction phase, ensuring compliance but may not bear liability for the design documents, as their focus is more operational during construction rather than on the original design. The Civil Engineer, while essential in the project's execution, typically focuses on the structural and civil aspects, rather than the architectural documentation itself. Thus, the Consulting Architect’s role does entail a level of liability, but primarily, the civil liability for the architectural documents defaults to the individual or entity that has designed or officially endorsed them, which is typically the Architect-of-Record.