Requesting Files from Architects?

[bklynbenz]

Does anyone know where I can find a sample letter to send to an architect when requesting autocad files/backgrounds? Something along the lines of a release.

 

Most of the time when I receive files without asking from an architect I usually have to sign one of their releases but there are instances where I do need to request and I was hoping I could work up something a little more official than what I am using now . Thanks

[bklynbenz]

heres one sample one i found online, i was looking for something similar to this...just trying to get more ideas

 

Dear Mr. X,

ABC Construction relies upon modern, computer-aided takeoff and control methods to provide timely, competitive earthwork bids and the most accurate possible, on-schedule grading performance. In addition to your paper plans, providing us with grading geometry on diskette in computer-readable form will enable us to do our best work for you.

Hold-harmless agreement: We understand that we may be receiving electronic media containing intermediate survey and design information, not necessarily intended for construction. We agree to hold DEF Development, Inc., and GHI Engineering harmless for any defects in this data. We agree that it shall be our responsibility to reconcile this electronic data with the paper plans, and that only the paper plans shall be regarded as legal documents for this job.

Mr. X, thank you for your prompt attention to this critical matter. Please ask Mr. Z to advise us how soon we may receive the disk.

Best regards,

[ReMark]

I've only had one instance where I had to sign a release for an architect. The point of it was to make me promise not to alter their original drawing in any manner, not to use a portion or all of the drawing without their prior approval, and not to share their drawing with another company. All requests for their drawing had to be submitted directly to the architectural company. It also had some legal mumbo-jumbo about holding them harmless if info/data in their drawing was incorrect and we used it as a basis of our design. Kind of sounds like something Microsoft or AutoDesk might say don't you think?

[Bill Tillman]

As a long time project manager in commercial construction I can tell you that one must always be diligent to CYA against any and all lawsuits. In today's world, the litigant with the most expensive lawyers often prevails and knowing that, you must take strong measures to protect yourself, be it your business or your intellectual property.

 

I must confess though that recently I came across a complete set of architectural and structural Acad drawings from one of the large players in the industry. The methods they use for layouts, models, titleblocks and all were so juicy I plan on implementing many of them into my work. This of course by some would be considered plagarism then again it might be considered "imitation is the sincerest form of flattery".

 

But back to the original point. The litigious society we live in must be taken into account and protecting oneself from legal action whether valid or frivilous is worth the effort in insisting on hold harmless agreements.