At Baker Law Group, we have represented clients in religious sector projects totaling over $40 million in value, including new development and major renovations for faith institutions and affiliated schools. Such projects often involve balancing construction industry norms with faith-based missions and community-driven governance structures.
Tailored Agreements for Faith-Based Projects
Our team has negotiated owner–architect and owner-contractor agreements designed to address the particular financial and operational interests of religious institutions. This includes projects delivered using Construction Manager as Constructor and Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) models. We also support clients through specialty requirements such as religious arbitration provisions, lender-approved consent and assignment forms, and faith-imposed construction limitations.
Representative Experience
Some of our notable experience includes:
- Negotiating AIA Document B133–2019, Owner-Architect Agreement, Construction Manager as Constructor Edition, for a $24 million multi-phase construction and addition project at a private religious academy
- Negotiating a $6.5 million multi-phase AIA Document A103–2017, Standard Form of Agreement Between Owner and Contractor, with payments based on Cost of the Work Plus a Fee, without GMP
- Preparation of a $5.5 million GMP contract using AIA Document A104–2017, Abbreviated Form of Agreement Between Owner and Contractor, with significantly modified exhibits and crafting smart exceptions to faith-based arbitration provisions for disputes where judicial involvement is in all parties’ interests
- Negotiating architect-subconsultant agreements for permit-drawing-only scopes, retroactive architect agreements, and owner-consultant incentive-based agreements in the faith industry
Our work often involves navigating the fine line between industry practice and religious mandates. For example, we advised a contractor through a mid-project architect transition, coordinating with the local authority having jurisdiction. In another instance, we counseled a design-build client on risk mitigation strategies tied to a lender’s consent and assignment requirements to secure project financing.
We have also successfully defended a construction consulting firm and its CEO in complex, multi-party cases involving a $5.2 million restoration project for a religious house of worship. The case involved mechanics liens, payment disputes, and allegations of fiduciary breaches. Through careful document review, strategic litigation advocacy, and a negotiated settlement funded by other parties, we secured a complete dismissal with prejudice.
Why Choose Us?
Our experience demonstrates a deep respect for the unique sensitivities and priorities of religious facility design and construction. Whether it involves a sanctuary expansion, an addition to a faith-based school, or representing an owner’s representative in litigation, we provide tailored legal counsel and strategic guidance to help protect our clients and advance their projects.
Planning a faith-based construction or renovation project? Contact Baker Law Group to have your agreements, risks, and regulatory compliance addressed with care and skill.
