The Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) has released the RIAI Construction Contract 2025, marking a major update to its industry-standard agreements. Developed in collaboration with the Construction Industry Federation (CIF) and the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI), the new editions replace the 2017 versions and reflect a shift towards more collaborative approaches across planning, design, and construction.

The 2025 Editions, covering both the RIAI ‘Yellow’ and ‘Blue’ forms, are designed to support private projects of varied types and scales. Key structural updates include reorganised clauses for greater clarity, the relocation of the former appendix to ‘Contract Particulars’ for easier reference, and the inclusion of defined timescales for notices to enhance contract certainty.

The contracts also address evolving industry needs, introducing clearer provisions for selected and nominated subcontractors, recognition of contractor design responsibilities, and updated professional indemnity and liability clauses. These refinements aim to reduce the need for bespoke amendments while promoting transparency, accountability, and efficiency across project teams.

RIAI President Sean Mahon emphasised that the updated contracts provide a more collaborative framework to help meet Ireland’s growing demand for sustainable homes, public buildings, and workplaces. Representatives from the SCSI and CIF also highlighted that the 2025 editions better reflect modern architectural and construction practices, balancing responsibilities among clients, architects, and contractors.

By establishing clearer contractual relationships and expectations, the RIAI Construction Contract 2025 is expected to enhance project delivery and design coordination across Ireland’s building and architecture sectors.

The RIAI Construction Contract 2025 is available in paper format from the RIAI Bookshop and digitally via RIAI Documents Online for members.

Explore how the new contract could impact building and architecture planning across Ireland.