As with many other general questions, this depends on the contractual circumstances. A good way of summing up this issue is to say that architects should not accept commission for a mixture of a full and partial service. Should an architect carry out a full service in connection with a traditional contract then the architect can be held liable for design failures or negligent conduct given during the Works progress. By contrast, if the architect is employed only up to tender stage, then it is highly likely that no such liability will exist. Consequently, an architect’s conduct should be consistent with the type of contract and agreement that they are operating under.