ALEXANDRIA, Va. - The American Subcontractors Association (ASA) warns its members about the risk of making assumptions. In its white paper, "What's NOT ‘In' the Contract," ASA gives real-life examples of where courts have issued conflicting opinions regarding the responsibility of the general contractor when the subcontract document does not address a specific issue. By examining these, and other examples, subcontractors can best ensure that they have properly anticipated responsibilities and costs for each project.

As part of ASA's "Stand Up!" campaign, the white paper looks at different options, such as asking general contractors to clarify, in writing, the descriptions of project requirements; breaking down bids to identify assumptions reflected in cost estimates; and using ASA's "Addendum to Subcontract" for proper language. It further compares and contrasts the subcontractor's responsibilities under model subcontract documents published by the Associated General Contractors of America, the American Institute of Architects, and the Design-Build Institute of America.

For more information, contact ASA at 703-684-3450 or visit www.asaonline.com and click on "Stand Up for Subcontractors."

Publication date: 08/09/2004