��������

TORONTO – The Ontario Association of Architects (OAA) and the Ontario General Contractors Association (OGCA) have released a new version of their OAA-OGCA Take-Over Procedures document.

Also known as “Document 100-2025,” the resource outlines recommended steps for the closing stages of a construction contract as the owner assumes control of the project from the contractor, explains a release.

Available for free on the the document was written for contractors and members of the architecture profession, but it is also intended as an educational resource for clients, lawyers, consultants, subcontractors and other stakeholders.

“The OAA and OGCA encourage their members — the architectural profession and industrial, commercial, and institutional (ICI) contractors, respectively — to use these take-over procedures and have them co-ordinated with the contract documents right from the outset of each project,” the release advises.

The new version was spurred into action by:

• changes to CCDC contracts, particularly the introduction of the ready-for-takeover concept;
• the need to clarify that an application for release of holdback was not subject to the prompt payment provisions of the ��������ion Act; and
• concerns some of the existing wording had not kept pace with current industry practices.

A liaison group comprised of members of the OAA’s and OGCA’s governing bodies identified the need to review both Document 100 and its complementary reference tool, the OAA/OGCA Guide to Project Closeout. The old guide has now been withdrawn from use.

“As the OAA regulates the practice of architecture in the public interest, it is important to have clear guidelines like Document 100 freely available to ensure design/construction projects are concluded fairly, responsibly and efficiently,” says architect Ted Wilson, president of OAA council, in a statement. “I am pleased to see the updating process, while thorough and thoughtful, went so smoothly in working with our OGCA partners.”

The OAA and OGCA are now determining a transition period for the older version of Document 100, as projects already underway will have referenced its contents. The two groups also continue to monitor any need for updates due to changes in legislation, including the expected regulations under the ��������ion Act, the release continues.

“The OGCA and OAA have continuously worked together toward the creation and distribution of industry documents to be used by all stakeholders. Standardized contracts, policies and procedures serve to better the entire industry,” notes Greg Brokenshire, OGCA chair.

Since its publication in the early 1970s, Document 100 has been relied on in the construction industry throughout Ontario.