Free Template

Architect Service Agreement

2 signers
1 Architect
2 Owner
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Architect Service Agreement Template

An architect agreement is a legally binding contract between an architect, architectural firm, or client, confirming that the service provider will perform architectural work in exchange for financial compensation. Whether you’re an architect or a client, having a solid legal document will protect you when one party fails to make payments or delays the project. The most common types of architectural work include residential, corporate, and governmental buildings. However, some architects also work on interior design projects, garden designs, renovation works, and heritage building preservation projects.
architect agreement template
The agreement should be as detailed and specific as possible. It is essential to include the scope of work, project payments, deadlines for each phase of the architectural process, contractor details (if necessary), fees for future work at the project site, or additional services such as construction management and interior design.
The architectural contract should also include an exit clause clearly defining what happens if one party decides to terminate the agreement, whether a simple or complex project. The details of such an arrangement should be outlined and discussed between both parties before any work or services start.

Importance of Architectural Design Contracts

A clear definition of the architect’s services and the client’s responsibilities will help you avoid misunderstandings and disputes. A well-drafted agreement will also protect your financial interests if the relationship with your architect or architectural firm ends before the project is finished.

Any design and construction contract administration on a project can be described as ensuring that the design intent of an architect or engineer is followed during the construction of a building. A well-written agreement between an owner and architect helps minimize, if not eliminate, problems arising from changes and errors in the communication of architectural or engineering design intent during all phases of a project, including bidding through completion.

Exploring the Contents of An Agreement Between Architect and Client

An architect agreement template such as this Fill freebie can serve as a guide when creating such essential documents. With it, you can quickly determine the architect’s scope of services, the agreed payment based on services rendered or services provided, and other general contract conditions. It is highly recommended to consult a lawyer before you sign the contract so that all legal issues can be addressed early.

When drafting an architect agreement, you must ensure that you have:

  • The names of people involved in the agreement
  • The location details of the property
  • Obligations regarding final and substantial completion
  • Details about the final payment
  • Insurance requirements for both parties
  • Applicable laws based on the state you’re in

Project requirements

Project requirements such as design, consultant selection, and change orders are some critical elements you must include in your architect agreement. It is important to go through each item carefully before finalizing the document.

Design services details

Specify the scope of services, including drawings and sketches, if any. You should also specify the number of revisions allowed before charges are levied. This section includes the number and quality of site visits and additional services the client or architect agrees on.

FAQ About Using an Architect Agreement Template

An architectural contract is a legally binding agreement between an architect or architectural firm and a client, which outlines the scope of work to be performed, payment terms, deadlines for each project phase, and other important details.
An architectural agreement usually starts with both parties clarifying details about the engagement. Next, it contains the terms of the project, the scope of work, timelines, and payment schedules for each phase of the architectural process. It may also include additional terms on guarantees, warranties, and insurance. Finally, it should be signed by both parties.
It is generally advisable to provide written approval for any additional services your architect may offer. You must first identify the services your architect provides as part of the initial agreement and ensure that you are both clear on the scope of any additional work.
Owner-architect agreements for small and complex project undertakings can be obtained online. The type of owner-architect agreement you use depends on the project you’re working on. Refer to the American Institute of Architects or AIA contract documents for your specific purpose.

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