Under what condition can an architect suspend services?

An architect can suspend services if construction proceeds without a building permit because this situation represents a serious legal and regulatory violation. Building permits are required to ensure that construction complies with local codes, zoning laws, and safety regulations. If a project moves forward without the necessary permits, it not only exposes the architect to potential liability but also endangers public safety and the integrity of the built environment.

In such cases, the architect has a professional obligation to protect public welfare and adhere to legal standards. Suspending services until the proper permits are obtained helps ensure that the project can proceed legitimately and safely. It allows the architect to maintain their professional integrity and compliance with the law.

In contrast, running behind schedule, being over capacity with work, or changes requested by the client do not provide a legal basis for suspending services. Those scenarios might lead to discussion or adjustments in the project but do not violate legal or regulatory standards in the same way that the absence of a required building permit does.