APPENDIX E - Construction Documents

The documents mentioned on this Appendix are sourced from the American Institute of Architects.  You’ll want to review the AIA Document Summary for the descriptions of the various contract types. 

When you’re ready to search deeper into a particular contract, you’ll be able to access state-level AIA organizations (in the AIA Distributor List document) and pay to download the contracts for a nominal fee.

Download the AIA Document Summary PDF DOC
Download the AIA Distributor List PDF DOC

Get familiar with the structure and content of the various contracts as these will be the basis for the working relationships you will create for your project.  Architects and Builders also rely on these as templates for their own contracts that they would be presenting you.

The more you know about the terms of any contract, the better manager you will be for your project.  You shouldn’t proceed with a any architect or builder unless you agree to terms of a formalized contract.  It’s safer for you and helps define the legal parameters of any relationship.

AIA Document Summary

This document is organized into several “document families” – conventional, Design/Build, and Construction Management.  Depending on the nature of your project or which method you’ll be considering, you’ll be able narrow your search more quickly by using these families.

AIA Full Service Distributor List

These are the state offices of the AIA.  You’ll see addresses, contact info as well as websites.  All the websites provide access to these documents.