
In order to facilitate the use of AIA Contract Documents by a wide range of professionals across the industry (including architects, contractors, owners, consultants, and attorneys), the organization has divided them into two categories: families, which are based on the types of projects or specific project delivery methods, and series, which are based on the purpose for which the document is being used.
Why to use an AIA contract?
- Case law matters. There are volumes upon volumes of books related to how the AIA agreements have been interpreted over the years. ...
- Legal fees add up. Using AIA agreements can help expedite issue resolution issues due to the years and years of documented interpretation of clauses.
- Standardization helps the negotiations of agreements go more quickly. ...
What are the requirements for joining the AIA?
The basics
- Education. Most states require a professional degree in architecture: a Bachelor or Master of Architecture. ...
- Experience. All states require that you work under a supervising architect. ...
- Examination. You’ll also need to pass the ARE. ...
- Licensure. Once you pass the exams and complete the experience requirement, you can register for a license. ...
What are the basic parts of a contract?
Elements of a Contract. The requisite elements that must be established to demonstrate the formation of a legally binding contract are (1) offer; (2) acceptance; (3) consideration; (4) mutuality of obligation; (5) competency and capacity; and, in certain circumstances, (6) a written instrument.
What are the illegality of contracts?
Illegality of contracts is a concept under contract law. It generally refers to the making or performance of a contract contrary to law[1]. Thus, a contract entered into by a party contrary to law or performed contrary to law is an illegal contract. The distinguished law teacher, Dowouna-Hammond, defines illegal contracts as contracts whose “formation ]

What is a AIA contract?
An AIA contract, which stands for American Institute of Architects contract, is designed to protect the interest of architects when hired to work on a construction project.
What are the different types of AIA contracts?
AIA Contract Documents are divided into six alphanumeric series by document use or purpose.A-Series: Owner/Contractor Agreements.B-Series: Owner/Architect Agreements.C-Series: Other Agreements.D-Series: Miscellaneous Documents.E-Series: Exhibits.G-Series: Contract Administration and Project Management Forms.
Are AIA documents free?
In cooperation with the AIA, NCARB is able to offer ARE candidates free access to key AIA documents for the purpose of preparing for the Construction Documents & Services division of the ARE. This is another great resource to help you prepare for the ARE. To access documents: Log into “My NCARB”
What is the purpose of AIA?
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) works to advance our nation's quality of life and protect the public's health, safety and welfare, as it has done for 160 years. Each day AIA members across the country and throughout the world create the places where people live and learn, work, and play.
What are the 4 types of building contracts?
What are the types of Construction Contracts?Lump Sum Contract.Cost Plus. Contract.Small Jobs. Contract.Large Jobs Contract.
What is AIA billing in construction?
AIA billing is a system, created by the American Institute of Architects in 1992, that serves as a standardized way for contractors to submit work-related paperwork to architects.
Is there an AIA document for final completion?
The Certificate of Substantial Completion is AIA G704 (2000). A hybrid document could be created for final completion, but since final completion may be hard to determine, using the contractor's final application for payment along with your last invoice could be used.
How do I finalize an AIA document?
To finalize an offline draft:Go to the Projects tab.Click Import File.Click Choose File(s).Select your AIA document draft(s) from your computer and click Import.Click Finalize to the right of the imported draft title.More items...•
What are the standard forms of contract in construction?
Some of the standard form of contracts includes the contracts by Joint Contracts Tribunal (JCT contracts) and the contracts by Institute of Civil Engineers (ICE contracts). But New Engineering Contracts (NEC contracts) were introduced later and this form of standard contracts are more commonly being used now.
Are AIA contracts good?
The AIA contract is a good option for both contractors and owners alike. It is a well-defined document that can help to prevent disputes down the road. However, there are some pros and cons to consider before using this contract. The main advantage of the AIA contract is that it is a well-defined document.
What is AIA member?
An AIA membership connects you to this global community of 94,000 professionals who share your passion for architecture, design, and the built environment. It also connects you to opportunities to mold the architecture profession, public policy, and practice.
Who is AIA owned by?
Prudential PlcAIA planned to be listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in 2010, however, was set to be purchased by Prudential Plc for US$35.5 billion on March 02, 2010....AIA: Everything you need to know.Headquarters address1 Connaught Rd Central, Central, Hong Kong, SARKey peopleLee Yuan Siong (group chief executive and president)5 more rows
What is the B series of AIA contracts used for?
This contract is used with any sized interior design project to establish duties and responsibilities when the architect provides architectural interior design services and design services for furniture, furnishings, and equipment.
What are the standard forms of contract in construction?
Some of the standard form of contracts includes the contracts by Joint Contracts Tribunal (JCT contracts) and the contracts by Institute of Civil Engineers (ICE contracts). But New Engineering Contracts (NEC contracts) were introduced later and this form of standard contracts are more commonly being used now.
What is an AIA document G702?
AIA Document G702®–1992, Application and Certificate for Payment, and G703®–1992, Continuation Sheet, provide convenient and complete forms on which the contractor can apply for payment and the architect can certify that payment is due.
What's an AIA document?
The documents produced by The American Institute of Architects (AIA) are the most widely used standard form contracts in the construction industry. They facilitate communications among all the parties involved in construction, which makes it easier to produce a high quality project in a timely and economical fashion.
What is an AIA contract?
The AIA contract documents are standardized forms that are applicable to many projects, commercial or residential. For subcontractors, the most common AIA contract is the A401 Standard Form of Agreement Between Contractor and Subcontractor.
What documents does the AIA use for subcontractors?
Some of the most common AIA documents for subcontractors are: The G702 Application and Certificate for Payment. The G703 Continuation Sheet, and. The G701 Change Order form.
How long does a subcontractor have to pay if the contractor is not paid?
If the Contractor does not pay the Subcontractor through no fault of the Subcontractor, within seven days from the time payment should be made as provided in this Agreement, the Subcontractor may, without prejudice to any other available remedies, upon seven additional days’ notice to the Contractor, stop the Work of this Subcontract until payment of the amount owing has been received. ]
Why is AIA important?
The AIA produces some of the most widely used construction contracts in the industry. Because the construction contract governs all aspects of the project, including site conditions, the scope of work, and payment, it’s important for every subcontractor to understand the implications of the documents they sign. The terms of the contract directly affect a subcontractor’s cash flow on a project. Failing to understand the implications of the terms could delay or interrupt payment.
What is the importance of a construction contract?
The contract will generally specify: How much you will be paid. The work you must do to get paid.
Why is it important to have a good contract?
Ultimately, the goal of any contract is to minimize risk and establish clear responsibilities for each party involved. A good contract will reduce the opportunities for work disputes, payment delays, and legal battles. All of which can derail a construction project.
Which group produces standardized contracts?
ConsensusDocs produces another common set of contracts and payment documents that are popular with contractors. The National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB) carry their own set of documents.
Who to consult for a model contract?
If you're going to make changes to any model contracts (whether AIA's, EJCDC's, or whatever) in order to develop a firm-specific template, always consult your firm's insurer, and an attorney experienced with construction law.
Who should amend contract language?
Amending contract language should be done by people who understand contract language. The firm should involve appropriate advisors. Amending of contract language by people with limited understanding of the implications is a recipe for disaster.
What is an owner in a construction contract?
In contract language the "Owner" is the party contracting with the design professional or contractor. The definitions in the AIA contracts specifically state that that person or entity may or may not actually own the land or the building where the project is sited, and that the party named "Owner" in the contracts may be a tenant, or a prospective buyer of the site or building, or in various other positions of non-ownership of the subject site or building. Regardless, that person is the "Owner" for contract purposes. In contract language a landowner who is not the party contracting with the design professional or contractor is typically referred to as the "landlord" (yes regardless of whether any lease or rent agreement pertains, and yes uncapitalized, as they are not a party to the contract.) Does your school offer any construction law courses? Or can you take some seminars through your insurer? It would help a lot with your understanding AIA documents.
What happens if you are sole stamping architect?
If you are the sole stamping architect, everything coming out of that office is YOUR liability REGARDLESS of who signs the contract.
What is an OP in a contract?
The OP is in a state where a firm that provides architectural services can be owned by non-architects. The firm's principal, though not an architect, is allowed to sign a contract for architectural services because he is signing as an agent of a firm that is allowed to provide those services.
Is AIA a one stop change?
There are in fact AIA documents designed for A/E firms. Also the "design professional" field is linked/editable throughout the suite (so no typing required - it's a one-stop change, providing you're using legally licensed AIA software). What I'm objecting to is your bizarre advice that the defined term "Owner" be changed.
Can anyone sign an AIA contract?
the short answer: anyone can sign AIA contract documents, especially if you're the owner of the firm entering into the agreement.
What is AIA contract?
Construction Contract. The American Institute of Architects, or AIA, is an organization for design professionals in the construction industry. They produce and sell a suite of construction contract document templates that are used on many projects. They offer templates for design contracts, construction contracts, change orders, ...
Why do banks use AIA?
Because AIA documents are used on so many projects, their templates have become the “norm” in the industry. Banks often require the use of AIA contracts and forms on projects they are financing. Although they are developed by architects, they have become more friendly to contractors and subs over the years, which is good news for the construction pros who use them.
What is the AIA A201?
The AIA A201-2017 General Conditions of the Contract for Construction, as it’s officially called, is a document that provides baseline terms that define the rights, responsibilities, and relationships of the parties to the contract. It provides basic rules that govern the relationships between the parties.
Why is A201 important?
The AIA A201 is important because it is referenced in all AIA-provided contracts: This includes agreements between the owner and the architect/designer, owner and contractor, and contractor and subcontractor. It defines these roles as they are used in the traditional design-bid-build project delivery method.
What is subcontractual relations?
Subcontractual Relations – Article 5.3. Here the terms state that subcontractors are to be bound by the same general conditions and terms as the general contractor. Subcontractors are to be subject to the same obligations and responsibilities as the GC under the contract. This part of the AIA A201 also protects the rights ...
How many articles are in the AIA A201?
The AIA A201 is broken up into fifteen articles. They deal with all the contractual relationships, including subcontractors, as well as time, changes to the work, payments, claims, termination, and insurance and bonds.
What happens if a contractor terminates a contract?
According to this AIA A201 article, if the owner terminates the general contractor’s contract for their convenience, the owner shall pay the GC costs for the work completed, and termination costs , including those for terminating subcontracts.
What is the AIA document G701?from aia.org
AIA Document G701™-2017 is used for implementing changes in the work agreed to by the owner, contractor, and architect.
What is a developer builder architect contract?from aia.org
This contract between developer-builder and architect is used for any sized single family residential project where architect’s services are specifically for developing a prototype.
What is A110 contract?from aia.org
This contact is a stand-alone agreement with its own internal general conditions and is intended for use on custom residential construction projects. A110 may be used for custom residential projects where payment is based on either a stipulated sum or the cost of the work plus a fee, with or without a guaranteed maximum price.
When is a contract between owner and consultant used?from aia.org
This contract between owner and consultant is used for any sized project when the consultant does not have a predefined scope of services.
What is joint venture contract?from aia.org
This contract is used by two or more parties to provide for their mutual rights and obligations in forming a joint venture.
What is the AIA document G701?from aia.org
AIA Document G701™-2017 is used for implementing changes in the work agreed to by the owner, contractor, and architect.
What is a developer builder architect contract?from aia.org
This contract between developer-builder and architect is used for any sized single family residential project where architect’s services are specifically for developing a prototype.
What is A110 contract?from aia.org
This contact is a stand-alone agreement with its own internal general conditions and is intended for use on custom residential construction projects. A110 may be used for custom residential projects where payment is based on either a stipulated sum or the cost of the work plus a fee, with or without a guaranteed maximum price.
When is a contract between owner and consultant used?from aia.org
This contract between owner and consultant is used for any sized project when the consultant does not have a predefined scope of services.
What is joint venture contract?from aia.org
This contract is used by two or more parties to provide for their mutual rights and obligations in forming a joint venture.
