Construction supervision via Bauherren-Schutzbund, Association of Private Builders, TÜV, DEKRA, independent expert surveyor, or "xyz"...?

The question also arises for me as we are currently considering going into more detail with an architect...

We tend to prefer an external construction supervisor, also from the Bauherrenschutzbund (8-9 visits, approx. €250 each at €85/hour). We also tend to build with an architect/a construction company. However, it is often the case that construction companies frequently work with the same architects. Here, one should question the independence.

If you plan with a completely independent architect, then handle the tenders etc. with them, I would also rather not work with an external construction supervisor. Because in my opinion, the architect then takes on that role (as Sebastian already mentioned).

For this, a contract regarding construction supervision should be concluded with the architect accordingly, so they can also be held accountable. Nothing should be based on verbal statements here.

If you plan with a completely freelance architect, then do tenders etc. with them, I would also rather not work with an external construction supervisor. Because in my opinion, the architect then takes over that

This logic does not make sense to me. Architects do not make mistakes ...? Rhineland greetings

And construction supervisors never either? Of course, you can double and triple secure yourself, but in the end, with architect-led construction, it is senselessly wasted money – and a lack of trust towards the architect.

You need someone who supervises the executor.

If you take a freelance architect and tender the project, I assume that the architect and the company awarded the contract are not connected. In other words, I assume that the architect is independent from the construction company.

For me, it does not bring much additional value to involve a fourth party. Because the architect already takes over the supervision. However, in this model, there is no one who supervises the architect himself. But what else needs to be supervised here? The planning? Yes, you can do that. Then, if you want, you can have another independent person visit and give them the architect’s planning to review. In my opinion, though, I do not need an external person watching how the architect supervises the construction company or someone who reviews the same trades as the architect already does. Since, as I said, I consider the architect independent in this regard, I do not find it necessary.

On the other hand, if you work with an architect or general contractor who is connected to the construction company, then you have to question the architect’s independence and an external expert is required.

But a construction supervisor may be specialized in this, while an architect, first of all, does a lot of other things and may not be entirely independent (for example, with regular contractors he already knows well)

on the go