Final answer:
The level of liability between the design architect and the electrical consultant is determined by the professional services agreement they have entered into, which includes indemnification clauses and limitations of liability.
Step-by-step explanation:
When determining the level of liability between the design architect and the electrical consultant, the relevant contract to reference is usually the contract that was entered into between the two parties. This will typically be some form of professional services agreement that outlines the scope of work, responsibilities, and liability clauses specific to their professional relationship. In the case of construction projects, these agreements can be complex and are carefully negotiated to distribute risks according to the services provided. The contract will normally include indemnification clauses and limitations of liability that specify the extent to which each party is responsible for damages, errors, or omissions.
It's important to review the signed agreements carefully, as they govern the legal relationship between parties and contain the specifics about what each party has agreed to in terms of project duties and liability exposure. If subcontractors are involved, such as an electrical consultant, the architect might have an agreement with each that specifies the allocation of liability among them. Sometimes reference may also need to be made to external standards of professional care or industry standards that can influence how liability is assessed.