The American Institute of Architects (AIA) this week announced that it will release a free official Guide* for sustainable projects intended to help architects understand contractual considerations unique to sustainable design and construction projects.

“The AIA Contract Documents program continues to revise existing documents and develop new documents and guides, as necessary, to remain current with trends and changes in the industry and law,” said Ken Cobleigh, Managing Director and Counsel for AIA Contract Documents content. “The development of the Guide reflects the shifting landscape in the industry and addresses key issues of interest to all parties involved in these types of projects."

It addresses the current state of sustainable design and construction, discussing issues and concepts including: certification systems, codes and legislation affecting sustainable design and construction projects; risks and responsibilities faced by owners, contractors and architects on sustainable design and construction projects; and recommendations for model language to assist the architect in developing a scope of services and to assist all project participants in appropriately allocating risks and responsibilities.

In addition to providing model language that may be used to amend or supplement documents in the AIA Contract Documents A201 Family for design-bid-build projects, the Guide discusses the applicability of key concepts to other delivery models such as design-build, construction management and integrated project delivery.

Because the AIA believes the Guide is an important resource for the design and construction industry, it will be available in May as a free download at www.aia.org/sustainableprojectsguide.

*AIA Document D503™-2011, G