Standard Form of Master Agreement Between Owner and Architect for Services provided under multiple Service Orders
For owners anticipating multiple projects with the same architect, navigating individual contracts for each can be cumbersome. Master agreements, such as the AIA Document B121–2018, Standard Form of Master Agreement Between Owner and Architect for Services provided under multiple Service Orders, offer a streamlined solution as they serve as a flexible master agreement between an owner and an architect, facilitating the provision of services across one or more projects via distinct service orders. As a master agreement, the AIA Document B121–2018 establishes a set of common terms and conditions that apply to each project for which the parties execute a corresponding service order, ensuring consistency and reducing the administrative burden of negotiating these terms with each new project.
While the AIA Document B121–2018 serves as a strong foundation as a master owner-architect agreement, as with all form-contracts, it’s important to note that AIA Document B121–2018 requires careful customization to align with the specific needs and contexts of the parties’ expectations and understanding.
Service Orders Define Project Scope
As with most master agreements, the AIA Document B121–2018 does not contain a scope of services; the scope of services is added via service orders. The AIA Document B121–2018 combined with an executed service order forms a “Service Agreement.” Each Service Agreement incorporates the master terms alongside specific project details and service outlines, supporting a streamlined approach to managing multiple architectural projects or phases under a unified contractual framework. The AIA Document B121–2018 assumes that the parties will use AIA Document B221–2018, the Service Order for use with the Master Agreement, as the project-specific service order. However, it is critical that each new service order is customized to reflect the particular, project-specific requirements and complexities of each project.
Ideal for Dynamic and Phased Projects
AIA Document B121–2018 is especially valuable for owners and architects engaged in ongoing or diverse project engagements where multiple service scopes require clear and consistent management. It is ideal in scenarios where projects are dynamic or phased, requiring different specialties or stages of architectural services executed over time. By using a master agreement, organizations can save time and reduce renegotiation efforts, ensuring smooth transitions and adaptations to new service orders as they arise.
Compared to other agreements like AIA Document B101-2017 or B104-2017, which focus on individual projects, AIA Document B121–2018’s strength lies in its ability to manage multiple projects or phases under consistent contractual governance.
Streamline Your Multi-Project Architecture Agreements
In conclusion, as a master agreement, the AIA Document B121–2018 offers a solution for managing architectural services across varied projects under one contractual umbrella. It promotes efficiency, reduces administrative overhead, and ensures that all parties maintain a clear understanding of terms and expectations, thus enhancing collaboration across a series of projects.
Contact a legal professional today to customize AIA Document B121–2018 for your organization’s multi-project needs.
