Court Orders Ħamrun Spartans to Pay Architect €17.7k in Unpaid Fees

In a recent court ruling, Ħamrun Spartans, the local football club, has been ordered to pay a prominent Maltese architect, Alex Dimech, a sum of €17,700 in unpaid fees. The case, which was heard at the First Hall, Civil Court, has brought to light the ongoing issue of delayed payments within the local construction and architectural industry.

Unpaid Fees for Design Services

Alex Dimech, the architect in question, had filed a lawsuit against Ħamrun Spartans, claiming that the football club had failed to pay him for his design services. Dimech had been commissioned to design the club’s new training facilities, located in the industrial area of Ħal Far, just off the Marsa road. The architect alleged that despite completing the project and submitting his final invoice in 2019, the club had only paid him a partial amount, leaving a balance of €17,700 unpaid.

Club’s Response and Court Ruling

In their response to the lawsuit, Ħamrun Spartans maintained that they had indeed made payments to Dimech but disputed the total amount claimed. However, the court, presided over by Mr. Justice Joseph Azzopardi, ruled in favor of the architect, stating that the club had failed to provide sufficient evidence to support their claim of partial payment.

The court also noted that the club’s delay in paying the architect was causing him financial hardship, as Dimech had to cover his own expenses and those of his team throughout the project. Therefore, the court ordered Ħamrun Spartans to pay the outstanding amount of €17,700, plus legal costs and interest, within 30 days.

Industry Concerns and Potential Impact

The ruling in this case has raised concerns within the local construction and architectural industry about the issue of delayed payments. Many professionals in these fields have reported facing similar challenges, with clients often delaying or withholding payments, causing cash flow problems and financial strain.

Architects and construction professionals have called for stricter enforcement of payment terms and contracts, as well as increased awareness among clients about the importance of timely payments for the sustainability of the industry. They argue that prompt payments not only ensure the financial stability of professionals but also encourage better project outcomes through improved working relationships.

Ħamrun Spartans, for their part, have not yet commented on the ruling or their plans to comply with the court’s order. However, the club has until the end of this month to settle the outstanding amount and avoid potential further legal action.

As the local football season kicks off, this ruling serves as a reminder that behind the glamour of sports, there are real-world issues and challenges that affect not just the clubs and players, but also the professionals and businesses that support them.

Hot Malta will continue to monitor this story and provide updates as more information becomes available.