Which phase requires the owner to pay 20% of the Professional Fee?

In the context of professional services, particularly in architecture and engineering, the Design Development Phase is critical because it involves refining the design based on feedback from the Schematic Design Phase. During this phase, the design is developed further, incorporating details regarding materials and systems required for construction. This stage is essential as it solidifies the project’s scope and ensures that all team members are aligned with the owner's vision.

The requirement for the owner to pay 20% of the Professional Fee during this phase aligns with the typical fee structure used in many contracts. This payment signifies the commitment to the project as well as compensates the professionals for the additional work necessary to advance the project to a more detailed level. Overall, this phase is pivotal in ensuring that the design is feasible and prepares the project for the subsequent Contract Document Phase.