Build Smart From the Start with AIA Contracts
Some residential projects follow a traditional path with separate agreements for design and construction. Others take a different approach. The owner works with a single entity that handles both design and construction.
This model can simplify communication and streamline decision-making. But it also requires a contract that clearly defines responsibilities across both phases of the project.
Without that clarity, gaps can form between design intent and construction execution.
The A112 agreement was developed to support this type of project. It provides a standardized framework for aligning responsibilities from initial design through construction.
What Is the A112 Agreement?
The A112 is an agreement between an owner and a home builder for both the design and construction of a single-family residential project. It is used when one entity is responsible for delivering the full scope of the project, from early design decisions through final construction.
As part of the AIA residential contract documents, the A112 creates a single point of responsibility for the project while establishing clear expectations for scope, cost, and execution.
At its core, the purpose of the A112 is straightforward:
- Align design and construction under one agreement.
- Define responsibilities across both phases of the project.
- Create a coordinated process for decision-making and execution
How A112 Fits Within AIA Residential Contracts
The A112 agreement is part of a series of AIA residential contract documents developed specifically for home building. The documents provide a consistent framework for residential construction that can be used together or alone based on the project structure.
- A110™ is used for custom residential projects with a contractor. What is the A110?
- A111™ is used when the builder performs construction only. What is the AI11?
- A112™ is used when the builder provides both design and construction.
- B110™ governs the relationship between the owner and architect. What is the B110?
These agreements align the project team on design, construction, and decision-making.
When Should You Use the A112 Agreement?
The A112 is best suited for projects where the owner wants a single point of responsibility for both design and construction.
Use A112 when:
- The builder is responsible for both design and construction.
- The owner prefers a streamlined communication structure.
- Coordination between design and construction needs to be tightly aligned.
How Does the A112 Agreement Benefit Owners?
A112 For Single Point of Responsibility
For owners, one of the biggest advantages of the A112 is simplicity. Instead of managing separate agreements for design and construction, the owner works with one entity responsible for the full project. This reduces the risk of misalignment between design intent and construction execution.
A112 Streamlines Decision-Making for Owners
Because design and construction are integrated, decisions can be made more efficiently. The A112 creates a framework where changes, pricing, and execution are handled within a single coordinated process.
How Does the A112 Benefit Builders?
A112 Enables Integrated Project Delivery
For builders, the A112 manages both design and construction under one agreement. This allows for better coordination between planning and execution, reducing delays and improving overall project flow.
A112 Provides Greater Control Over Outcomes
By overseeing both design and construction, builders can align decisions with project goals more effectively. This helps reduce conflicts between design intent and construction realities.
Why the A112 Agreement Matters Early in the Project
Successful residential construction projects rely on early alignment. When responsibilities for both design and construction are defined clearly from the start, teams can move forward with greater confidence.
The A112 establishes how decisions are made, how scope evolves, and how the project is executed from beginning to end. Without that structure, projects can lose efficiency and clarity. Understanding when to use A112 helps ensure the project is set up correctly from the beginning.
A Coordinated Approach to Residential Construction
Residential build projects require a different level of coordination. The A112 provides a structured, standardized way to manage both design and construction within a single agreement. It supports clearer communication, better alignment, and more predictable outcomes for both owners and builders.
Explore the A112 and the full suite of AIA residential contract documents.
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