What are these post-bubble trends? Instead of sprawling large-scale developments, there is more of an emphasis on smaller infill projects in areas that already have access to transportation infrastructure. Projects are smaller and affordability is important. Durability is a desirable feature of new residential projects, as people want a low-maintenance home. Sustainability is also a sought-after feature, especially in regard to roofs. Porches have become a very popular component of homes, as people want to foster more of a connection to their surrounding community. Home styles are somewhat simplistic, with fewer upscale bells and whistles on the façade.

 

On the grim side, business is still down for residential architecture firms. Billings were down again in the third quarter of this year, continuing the disparaging trend that began in 2007. Architects in all regions of the country have been affected by the downturn.

Our claims studies analyze claims that have been brought against design professionals in the Schinnerer and CNA professional liability insurance program. Each study also includes risk management advice that is specific to the project type, discipline, or problem area that is being addressed in the study. The goal of the claims studies is to educate firms about the risks they may encounter on certain projects. Hopefully design firms can use these true stories and risk management advice to avoid the same pitfalls others have stumbled upon.

 

This year, we have added claims studies on oral contracts, subconsultants, contractual provisions, and submittals. In addition to these new studies, current brokers and policyholders can access our entire archive of claims studies, many of which were updated this year with current benchmarking data.