Bauherr

Bauherr is a term used in the German-speaking construction and real estate sectors to describe the person or organization that commissions, finances, and is responsible for a building project. The word derives from Bau (building) and Herr (master or owner). In practice, the Bauherr initiates the project, sets goals, and bears overarching responsibility for its realization.

The Bauherr’s role includes defining the project brief, establishing budget and timeline, and selecting design professionals and construction partners. He or she approves designs and material choices, obtains necessary permits, and ensures compliance with legal, regulatory, and quality standards. During construction, the Bauherr oversees progress, monitors costs, and manages risks, safety, and quality control. At project completion, the Bauherr accepts the work and handles warranties and any arising issues.

In legal and contractual terms, the Bauherr is typically the Auftraggeber (client) in a construction contract. In public projects, the Bauherr may be a government body or municipality acting as the contracting authority. Contract frameworks such as VOB/B or HOAI in Germany influence the allocation of responsibilities between the Bauherr, planners, and contractors, including design responsibility, site management, and reimbursement of services.

The Bauherr can be a private individual, a company, a developer, an investor, a housing association, or a public entity. Projects are normally conducted through close cooperation between the Bauherr, architects and engineers (Planer), and construction firms, with the Bauherr ultimately accountable for delivering the completed building according to agreed specifications.