Direct Answer
A steel detailing contract should include: scope of work (drawing types and quantities), deliverable format (PDF, Tekla model, DSTV files, IFC), schedule milestones (anchor bolt plans, first submittal, IFC), revision allowance (number of rounds included, pricing for additional rounds), fee structure (lump sum or hourly), payment terms, intellectual property ownership (who owns the model), and liability provisions (errors and omissions responsibility).
Full Explanation
Key contract provisions that fabricators often overlook: (1) Model ownership — the Tekla model is a valuable asset; ensure your contract specifies that you own the model and receive the native file at project close. (2) Revision allowance — without a defined revision allowance, every design change becomes a billing dispute. Specify: 'up to 2 full revision rounds included; additional rounds at $X/hour.' (3) Change order process — how are scope additions (new drawings, design changes) authorized and billed? Define this before it matters. (4) Schedule delay — who is responsible for delays caused by late design documents vs. detailer performance? (5) DSTV delivery — specify DSTV version and delivery format.
What This Means for Your Shop
A poorly-scoped detailing contract is one of the leading causes of fabrication project disputes. The detailer argues that 'design changes' caused additional cost; the fabricator argues that the drawings were wrong. Clear scope definition prevents both types of dispute.
Common Mistakes
Using a one-page letter agreement for a major detailing engagement. A letter agreement without specific deliverable definitions, revision provisions, and schedule commitments is unenforceable when disputes arise.
Recommended Process
Develop a standard detailing contract template with your attorney that covers all the provisions above. Use it for every detailing engagement. For modifications requested by the detailer, evaluate each change carefully — the detailer's standard contract is written to protect them, not you.