ConsensusDocs Releases Three New Standard Contract Documents

ConsensusDocs has just released three new standard contract documents to meet the needs of an evolving construction industry. Firms working on joint ventures, geotechnical consulting, or prequalifying a design-builder now have ready-to-use forms that simplify the process of getting contracts signed and work performed.

The new joint venture document for general contractors, the ConsensusDocs 298 Joint Venture Agreement, is the only document of its kind and is designed to make it easier for multiple firms to combine efforts, increase capacity, combine expertise and share risks on specific projects. “In today’s market, we’re seeing an increase in joint ventures between general contractors, and the new joint venture document provides a solid contractual foundation for all involved parties,” states Kory D. George, Partner at Woods & Aitken LLP and chair of the joint venture working group. The new Owner and Geotechnical Consultant agreement, ConsensusDocs 246, meanwhile, provides a balanced standard agreement for Geotechnical Consultant’s services to determine underground site conditions. Differing site conditions potentially lead to litigation, and therefore are a critical element for a construction project’s risk profile. “With seemingly ever-increasing environmental regulation, the geotech agreement fills a need in the industry to protect owners and consultants alike in helping ensure both parties understand their roles and responsibilities,” states Phil Beck, Partner at Smith Currie & Hancock LLP and chair of the geotech agreement working group. The updated ConsensusDocs 421 design-build prequalification form is part of a coordinated series of contract documents the coalition has crafted focusing exclusively on design-build projects. The prequalification form helps owners choose the best qualified design-build contractors at the best prices. The newly published contracts further the Coalition’s goal of writing fairer contracts to deliver better project results with less litigation. The contracts take a project-first approach and provide owners an active role in the construction process. ConsensusDocs are written in a simpler, more understandable style to promote collaboration, communication and integration. They are the only contracts endorsed by 36 leading design and construction industry organizations, including AGC. With a catalog of 100+ contracts addressing all methods of project delivery, ConsensusDocs incorporate fair risk allocation and best practices for building a better way. AGC members receive a 20% discount on all ConsensusDocs purchases.  Simply use Discount Code “AGC100” at www.ConsensusDocs.org.  For additional information, please contact Erin Santiago at santiagoe@agc.org or (703) 837-5390.