I would also be somewhat leery, or at least *careful*, when contracting with an owner through a "representative." Depending on how large a project is, and whether it justifies the overhead of an attorney-reviewed specific contract (most of mine don't), and who the rep is -- licensed, unlicensed, or just the client's brother who happens to be out of work at the moment -- such an arrangement *might* be acceptable.
BTW there appears to be a dearth of "pro" comments about contracting with an architect. ;)
Ralph
In a message dated 11/5/09 11:40:53 AM, mblangy@satco-inc.com writes:
From PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS ACT (Business and Professions Code §§ 6700 – 6799)
"The written contract shall be executed by the professional engineer and the client, or his or her representative, prior to the professional engineer commencing work,.."
What would constitute a "representative?"
> As far as I know, at least in California, a professional engineer may not have a contract with an unlicensed. You must have a written agreement with the owner.