Agent or Principal? Supplying FF&E Explained
Join the BIID for a webinar explaining the difference between acting as an Agent or a Principal when supplying FF&E
The supply, procurement, delivery and installation of Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment (FF&E) is a significant component of the work of many interior designers.
In performing this service, designers may act as an ‘agent’, advising on FF&E to be supplied by others or they may supply the FF&E directly to the client, acting as a ‘principal’. Some designers may act as both agent and principal, depending on the project and FF&E.
Ensuring you are complying with all relevant legislation, and adhering to the BIID Code of Conduct, when supplying FF&E can be complex and this CPD is designed to give an overview of the core principles to keep in mind when performing this type of work.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Topics covered will include:
- Role and responsibilities of an ‘agent’ vs a ‘principal’
- Client rights and responsibilities – consumer vs commercial clients
- When ‘installation’ becomes ‘construction’
- Liabilities and warranties
- Trade discounts and designer commissions
ABOUT THE SPEAKERS

Colin Jones – Colin Jones is Partner of HCR Hewitsons and a solicitor specialising in construction and procurement law. He is long time adviser to BIID and its members and as well as overseeing our Legal Helpline he has advised on the BIID contracts of appointment, including working in the past as part of a BIID team in the drafting of the BIID Concise Agreement for Interior Design Services contract (CID/14), published by RIBA Publishing.

Thomas Nation – Thomas Nation is a solicitor in the HCR Hewitsons Construction and Engineering team. He advises interior designers on appointment contracts and has represented interior design clients in contentious disputes, including court claims. Thomas has provided assistance to many BIID members via the BIID Legal Helpline.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
This event is for interior designers seeking enhanced explanation of the designer’s role in relation to FF&E within a design project
BIID members are invited to join us for free, non-members can purchase a ticket for £8 + VAT
Additional Information
Once you have registered for this event and your ticket purchase has been verified, you will be emailed the Zoom meeting link the day before the session. If this event is fully booked, please join the waiting list. If you are no longer able to attend, please inform the office so that we can give your spot to someone else.
Registered guests will receive a recording of the webinar post event.
The advertised price does not include VAT.
Attendance to this event equals 1 hour of Structured CPD
If you have any queries, please email the office at info@biid.org.uk or call 020 7628 0255.
By booking a ticket to this event you are agreeing to the BIID Event Terms and Conditions
Latest Events
The BIID Online Drop In Coaching Sessions equip early career professionals with essential skills and knowledge to excel in their field.
Regarded as the principle and largest show of its kind in the UK, Scottish Interiors Showcase hosts some of the best exhibitors, showcasing the latest Spring collections of fabrics, lighting, furni
This CPD will give you an insight into the design processes, potential pitfalls, and considerations that you will enounter in tandem with your Kitchen Design Team in Super Prime Residential Develop
“Connected Realities” Where Physical Meets Digital, and Work Evolves by Design
Please note the Autumn 2025 sessions have moved to Spring 2026


