The ConsensusDOCS were developed by the AGC when they decided they wanted a piece of our pie. Luckily, their timing could not have been any worse; launching their product just as the recession was taking hold. But I would expect them to redouble their efforts once this economy turns around.
The "DOCS" is supposed to mean "Designers, Owners, Contracts, Subcontractors" but they never involved any designers in the development of these documents. So, clearly there is no "consensus". They do not have 100 years of industry acceptance like the AIA's docs; and from what I am led to understand, they are severely slanted toward the contractor.
I would suggest, if they insist you use them, that you do what every owner seems to do with AIA docs, that is, have your attorney review them and add or delete clauses as appropriate.
-------------------------------------------
David Del Vecchio AIA
Architect
David Del Vecchio, Architect, LLC
Cranford NJ
-------------------------------------------
Original Message:
Sent: 07-25-2011 08:25
From: Jeffrey Rosenblum
Subject: ConsensusDOCS Architect Owner Contracts
I have never heard of such documents. However, 40 plus years of experience has lead me to believe projects that start with special restrictions or documents usually spell trouble. Signer beware.
This is a purely business decision on your part. These days many of our decisions are made that way where normally we would have told the prospective client to f-off. What are the hidden imdenifications, guarantees,
etc. Have your insurance company review the document. Know what you are signing if you decide to sign the doucment. Make the other party live up to their side of the agreement, usually they can't. Good luck.
-------------------------------------------
Jeffrey Rosenblum FAIA
Rosenblum Coe Architects, Inc.
Charleston SC
-------------------------------------------