Harrison Barnes PLC Ensures Transparency in Architectural Services Contracts for Malibu Homeowners
Malibu, CA (PRWEB) March 18, 2014 -- According to a March 14 article titled, “Most L.A. County cities failing to protect historic sites, study finds,” many cities in the Los Angeles County haven’t been able to adequately protect historically important structures. This includes homes as well. Malibu is one of the cities with falling grades. Concerned homeowners who want to remodel their homes to remain protected against super storms and earthquakes or simply make certain additions or structural changes for aesthetic reasons often face hurdles. Since most of these homes are under the jurisdiction of the CA Coastal Commission even simple additions or remodels can be deemed “development,” meaning the project requires approval and a permit from the Commission. In addition, much of the land in Malibu is subject to the Santa Monica Mountains North Area Plan and LA County zoning laws.
Because of these well-known hurdles for Malibu homeowners, an architect who has experience serving as an expeditor, land use consultant or contract administrator is a valuable resource when embarking on any construction project in the City of Malibu. However, even though the permit process can be confusing and ambiguous, the architectural services contract should be well-defined, understandable and transparent. It is here that Harrison Barnes PLC helps its clients to understand the essential details of every matter.
Harrison Barnes, Founder of Harrison Barnes PLC says, "We know of at least one architect in the area who has a reputation for taking advantage of clients by going beyond the scope of the work requested to generate additional fees. This architect has even sued clients who refuse to pay for his runaway billing." Investing in legal services offered by Harrison Barnes PLC can help clients think the situation over before signing anything and make a wise decision, confirms Barnes. He adds, “When the matter is of critical importance, it’s time to contact Harrison Barnes PLC.”
Being billed for expensive yet unapproved work can be easily avoided through clear terms in a contract. Unfortunately, the contracts presented to clients by architects are strategically crafted with the architect’s best interest in mind - often leaving clients with no recourse to dispute invoices for work done without prior approval.
Clients presented with a service contract for a construction project are often pressured by the architect, expediter, land use consultant or contract administrator to sign the contract immediately and even say the contract is non-negotiable. Being excited to get the construction started right away after having a great conversation with the service provider, they often sign important legal documents in haste. A decision made in a hurry could hurt in the long run. Hence, it is very important to read through all service contracts line-by-line and ask for written clarification for any ambiguous terms. Investing in an experienced lawyer from Harrison Barnes PLC can help better protect the rights of home owners and avoid billing work done without prior approval.
About Harrison Barnes PLC:
Harrison Barnes PLC is a Malibu-based law firm founded in 2000 by Andrew Harrison Barnes. It focuses on providing top quality representation to the Malibu community and has won millions of dollars for its clients over the last decade and has handled criminal matters across Southern California. You can get more details on Harrison Barnes PLC by calling 310.598.1719 or visiting http://www.harrisonbarnes.com
Michael Parker, Harrison Barnes PLC, http://www.harrisonbarnes.com/, +1 (310) 598-1719, [email protected]
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