Work Order for Use with Master Agreement Between Contractor and Subcontractor
AIA Document A422–2018, Work Order for Use with Master Agreement Between Contractor and Subcontractor, is the companion document to AIA Document A421–2018. While the master agreement sets the general ground rules for the contractor–subcontractor relationship, the AIA Document A422–2018 adds the details that make each project unique—scope of work, schedule, subcontract sum, and other job-specific requirements. When executed, a work order and the master agreement together form a complete subcontract for that particular project or phase of work.
Not a Stand-Alone Document
AIA Document A422–2018 is never a stand alone contract. It only functions when paired with AIA Document A421–2018. Think of the master agreement as the framework and the work order as the project-specific add-on. This structure is particularly useful in repeat business relationships, where multiple scopes of work can be approved quickly without rehashing the baseline contractual terms each time.
Why It Matters
AIA Document A422–2018 offers both efficiency and consistency. Each work order automatically incorporates the protections and procedures previously agreed upon in the master agreement, thereby reducing the risk of conflicting terms between projects. At the same time, each work order is treated as an independent subcontract. That separation has a benefit: issues or disputes on one job don’t necessarily transfer to others. The sole drawback is that maintaining multiple open work orders requires careful organization and recordkeeping, as each is a stand-alone contract.
The Need for Customization
As with all AIA forms, AIA Document A422–2018 is not designed to be used “as is.” Enforceability will need to take into account local law to address issues such as lien rights, prompt payment, indemnification, and insurance. Customization becomes even more important if the prime contract isn’t an AIA form. Because AIA Document A422–2018 is drafted to align with AIA Document A201–2017 and related standards, using it with a non-AIA prime contract can introduce conflicts in payment, dispute resolution, or risk allocation. Careful coordination is the only way to avoid gaps.
A Practical Tool for Repeat Projects
In short, AIA Document A422–2018 is the one that puts the AIA Document A421–2018 master agreement into practical application. Every completed work order translates the general terms into an effective subcontract, tailored to the needs of a single project. For contractors and subcontractors who anticipate working together on multiple projects, the system offers flexibility and convenience—provided that the documents are thoroughly customized and kept up to date.
Ready to Put AIA Document A422–2018 to Work?
If you’re using AIA Document A422–2018, Work Order for Use with Master Agreement Between Contractor and Subcontractor as part of your use of the A421 master agreement, we can help to align your work orders with local law, your prime contract, and your project goals. Contact our firm today to ensure your work orders are compliant, enforceable, and tailored to your projects.
