AIA releases 13 new and updated contract documents

One of the most notable changes is a new Contractor-Subcontractor Master Agreement and accompanying work order. The new agreement allows a contractor and subcontractor to agree to a predefined set of terms and conditions that apply to multiple scopes of work.

The Joint Venture Agreement for Professional Services also got a significant update. It was revamped to address the legal implications associated with joint venture business relationships.

Other documents that underwent notable changes include Master Agreements, which now align with the 2017 core AIA document updates; Instructions to Bidders, which now include designation of Bidding Documents in electronic form or paper copy; and Architect-Consultant Agreement for Special Services, which now includes the copyrights, licenses, and payment provisions of the prime agreement. Mediation was added as a precedent to binding dispute resolution.

New ideas in design and constructability are radically changing how metal systems are used as roofing for commercial and institutional buildings. Behind the investment in these new kinds of expressions and construction approaches is a growing interest in improved performance and reduced environmental impact. Metal roofing systems can cut cooling and heating loads significantly, according to the EPA.