The District of Columbia Architect Contract for Design is a legally binding agreement that outlines the terms and conditions between an architect and a client for the design and construction of a project in the District of Columbia. This contract is specifically tailored to comply with the laws and regulations of the District of Columbia. It serves as a crucial document in establishing the roles, responsibilities, and expectations of both parties involved in the design process. The District of Columbia Architect Contract for Design includes various clauses and provisions that protect the rights and interests of both the architect and the client. Some key elements covered in this contract are scope of work, design fees, project schedule, deliverables, ownership of documents, and dispute resolution. The scope of work section clearly defines the specific services that the architect will provide. It may include tasks such as initial site analysis, concept development, schematic design, design development, construction documents, and construction administration. By outlining the scope of work, this contract ensures that both parties are aware of the architect's responsibilities throughout the design process. Design fees are outlined in the contract to establish the financial obligations of the client. These fees can be structured in various ways, including fixed fee, hourly rate, percentage of construction cost, or a combination thereof. The contract specifies the payment schedule and any additional expenses that may be incurred during the project. The project schedule is a vital component of the contract, as it sets the timeline for the design and construction phases. It includes key milestones and deliverable dates that the architect must adhere to. This section ensures that the client has a clear understanding of the anticipated timeline for their project. Ownership of documents is addressed in the contract to clarify the ownership rights of the design and construction documents. It specifies that the architect retains the copyright to the drawings and other documents, while granting the client a license to use those documents for their project. Additionally, it may outline the terms for termination or transfer of those ownership rights. In the event of a dispute, the contract provides a framework for resolution through mediation, arbitration, or litigation. This clause aims to minimize potential conflicts by providing a formal process for resolving disagreements between the architect and the client. There are several types of District of Columbia Architect Contracts for Design, including the American Institute of Architects (AIR) standard form contracts. These standard form contracts, such as AIR Document B101 (Owner-Architect Agreement), AIR Document B103 (Owner-Architect Agreement for a Complex Project), and AIR Document C101 (Owner-Architect Agreement for a Small Project), are widely used in the industry and provide a comprehensive framework for the design and construction process. Overall, the District of Columbia Architect Contract for Design is a crucial document that establishes the legal framework for architects and clients to collaborate effectively and ethically in the design and construction of projects within the District of Columbia. It ensures that both parties understand their rights, responsibilities, and obligations, promoting a successful and mutually beneficial working relationship.
Para su conveniencia, debajo del texto en español le brindamos la versión completa de este formulario en inglés. For your convenience, the complete English version of this form is attached below the Spanish version.