The Fee Structure for Architects and Engineers, abbreviated as HOAI in German, forms the basis for compensating planning and construction services in Germany. Its structure is intricate, encompassing various phases, service descriptions, and fee tables. In this blog post, we will take a detailed look at this structure to foster a better understanding of billing for construction projects.
I. Phases of HOAI:
HOAI divides the entire planning and construction process into nine phases. These phases delineate the chronological sequence of a construction project and serve as the foundation for fee calculations. The phases span from basic data acquisition to design planning, culminating in object supervision and management. Each phase entails specific tasks and services provided by architects and engineers.
II. Service Descriptions:
Within each phase, HOAI defines service descriptions known as "Leistungsbilder," outlining the specific tasks and services of planners. These service descriptions offer a detailed overview of the services to be rendered in the respective phases. For instance, the service descriptions for object planning encompass basic data acquisition, preliminary planning, design planning, approval planning, execution planning, preparation of tender, involvement in the tendering process, object supervision, and object management.
III. Fee Tables:
HOAI's fee tables establish the fee rates for the rendered planning and construction services. The calculation is based on the total fee and is determined by the fee rate and the value of the services provided in Euros. The tables are categorized, providing different percentages for various service descriptions and phases. A precise understanding of these fee tables is crucial for accurately calculating compensation for the services rendered.
Conclusion: The structure of HOAI, including its phases, service descriptions, and fee tables, forms the framework for compensating architectural and engineering services in the construction industry. A comprehensive understanding of this structure is equally important for both planners and clients to establish transparent and fair fee agreements. HOAI offers a clear guideline for billing construction projects, ensuring equitable compensation for the services provided by planners.
