Wendy,
Each individual state has different laws regarding these conditions. In Florida, if the previous architect finished the project and was paid in full, the client's committment to the architect and vice-versa has been satisfied. Since you state that the project is a renovation, I make that assumption.
Regardless, the original architect owns the right (US Copyright laws) to the documents that the firm prepared for the project, including the specifications. My best advice would be to contact the firm, let them know what you are doing and obtain, in writing, their permission to use the documents. In most cases it will take you writing the letter and asking for the original architect of record to "sign-off" granting you permission to use the documents.
I have done several projects where we have either taken over a defaulted project or a total remodel. This has always been my approach to the issue when using the work of another architect.
-------------------------------------------
Greg Burke, AIA
President
Gregory John Burke ' ARCHITECT, PA
Vero Beach, Florida
-------------------------------------------
Original Message:
Sent: 09-05-2012 00:10
From: Wendy Dunnam Tita
Subject: use of "existing specifications"
This message has been cross posted to the following Discussion Forums: Small Project Practitioners and Interior Architecture Committee .
-------------------------------------------
Can someone tell me what the correct practice is regarding the use of specifications for an original project when a renovation is being performed. We are renovating a space that was constructed 8 years ago. We have a printed copy of the existing specifications (done by another architect). We would like to refer to sections of the existing specs so that there is no confusion when we say "match existing". Is there a problem referring to this document and reprinting certain sections for use in the renovation project?
-------------------------------------------
Wendy Dunnam Tita AIA
Principal
Dunnam Tita, PLLC
Austin TX
-------------------------------------------