Standard Form of Agreement Between Owner and Architect, Construction Manager as Constructor Edition
The Construction Manager as Constructor (CM) project delivery method offers owners a collaborative approach to construction, bringing the CM on board early in the design process. This allows for pre-construction input, cost estimating, and constructability reviews. The AIA Document B133–2019 is crafted to serve as an agreement between an owner and an architect, specifically for projects where a Construction Manager is employed not just as an adviser but also as a constructor. This setup is particularly effective during the preconstruction phase, where the CM prepares either a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) proposal or a Control Estimate, which is used on cost reimbursement contracts without a GMP, helping to ensure the project aligns with the owner’s financial expectations. The architect, meanwhile, provides contract administration services throughout the construction phase, helping to ensure the project conforms to the Architect’s design intent and agreed specifications. While AIA Document B133–2019 provides a strong starting point, it’s essential to customize the agreement to suit the unique needs and complexities of each project.
Streamlined Roles and Cost Management
The AIA Document B133–2019 assumes that the CM will handle detailed cost estimates and scheduling tasks, which reduces the architect’s focus on these elements and allows them to concentrate on design within the fiscal confines set by the owner. This collaborative model supports a project execution strategy that combines design precision with cost-effective construction management.
AIA Document B133–2019 is ideally deployed in scenarios where an owner wishes to leverage the benefits of having a CM engaged as a constructor, thus providing assurances through structured financial and schedule commitments. This is advantageous in complex project environments where cost management and risk allocation are critical. Fine-tuning the document to handle project-specific challenges effectively maximizes its utility.
Maximize CM-Constructor Project Success
In summary, AIA Document B133–2019 provides a structured framework for effectively governing project delivery where a CM serves as the constructor, which helps to ensure that financial parameters align with design goals and that construction execution adheres to stringent project controls. This document supports the integration of design ingenuity with construction efficacy, fostering success in complex project landscapes. Reach out today to ensure AIA B133–2019 is customized for your project’s unique design and construction requirements.
