Stress with the architect - naively signed the preliminary contract

Hello,

We decided to build in 2015. We wanted a ytong house. Unfortunately, I naively signed a preliminary contract. Planning services according to HOAI which are included when the house contract is concluded. Over time, we were more than disappointed with the architect and eventually decided to buy and renovate an old house. In our opinion, the architect did not do his job even remotely well or adequately. Nevertheless, he is now demanding the full price of 4700€. After our first objection, there is now an invoice for almost 9000€.

What can we do? Is there a central complaints office for architects? Do I have to go to a lawyer? Is there even any chance?

Thanks for your help.

Matt

I think only a lawyer can assess something like that and what your chances are. It is always a question of which planning phase you are in or have been in; after that, the architect can then demand money. I think you won't get out of it without paying anything at all, but to assess that you need to go to a lawyer.

OK. Thank you very much for the assessment. As far as the payment is concerned, we do want to pay for the service he has provided, no question. But the way he works.....

I cannot make sense of your presentation, but in the end, only a lawyer can help you with legal certainty.

What kind of contract do you have with whom exactly?

With an architect? With a homebuilder? With whom for which services?

We have a planning fee with an architect from ytong.

So a contract (according to HOAI) with an architect (freelancer).

So not with a company that manufactures stones or houses.