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ARTICLE · 23 JULY 2026

Here’s The Drill – Introducing The New CCDC 33 – 2026 Progressive Design-Build Service Contract

WeirFoulds LLP
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The Canadian Construction Documents Committee has released CCDC 33, a standardized service contract governing the relationship between design-builders and consultants on progressive design-build projects. This new form establishes the framework for professional design services, payment structures, and liability provisions in the downstream contractual chain. How does this companion document to CCDC 32 balance the consultant's professional obligations with the commercial realities of multi-party construction

CanadaReal Estate and Construction
Jeff Scorgie
Jeff Scorgie
Kathleen Gregus
Kathleen Gregus
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What is CCDC 33?

The CCDC 33 is the first standardized service contract published by the CCDC for use between a design-builder and a consultant on a progressive design-build project. It is the downstream companion to CCDC 32, the prime contract between the owner and the design-builder. While CCDC 32 governs the owner/design-builder relationship, CCDC 33 governs the design-builder’s engagement of the consultant who provides the professional design services required by the project. Under CCDC 32, the design-builder is required to engage the consultant on terms based on or consistent with CCDC 33 (CCDC 32, GC 4.2.4).

How Does CCDC 33 Relate to CCDC 32?

The two contracts share a common structure, including the same two-phase framework (the Project Development Phase and the Design/Construction Phase) and use consistent terminology, definitions, and project gate mechanisms. When the owner accepts amendments to the schedules to the design-build contract or the Owner’s Statement of

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