Senate Bill No. 687 amends the Civil Practice and Remedies Code to clarify liability provisions related to land surveying services in construction contracts. The bill introduces new definitions, including "land surveyor," and expands the scope of indemnification clauses to include land surveyors alongside registered architects and licensed engineers. Specifically, it renders void and unenforceable any promises in construction contracts that require these professionals to indemnify or hold harmless parties for damages resulting from their own negligence or defects in their work. The bill also stipulates that contracts must require that services be performed with the professional skill and care typically expected from competent professionals in the field.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing sections to ensure that any provisions establishing a different standard of care than what is outlined in the bill are void and unenforceable. It allows for the reimbursement of reasonable attorney's fees in proportion to the liability of the architect, engineer, or land surveyor. The changes apply only to contracts entered into on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Overall, the bill aims to provide clearer guidelines and protections for land surveyors in the context of construction contracts.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Civil Practice and Remedies Code 130.001, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 1071.002, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 130.0021, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 130.004, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 130.005, Local Government Code 271.904 (Civil Practice and Remedies Code 1071, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 130, Local Government Code 271)
Senate Committee Report: Civil Practice and Remedies Code 130.001, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 1071.002, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 130.0021, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 130.004, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 130.005, Local Government Code 271.904 (Civil Practice and Remedies Code 1071, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 130, Local Government Code 271)
Engrossed: Civil Practice and Remedies Code 130.001, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 1071.002, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 130.0021, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 130.004, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 130.005, Local Government Code 271.904 (Civil Practice and Remedies Code 1071, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 130, Local Government Code 271)