What are the Trade Definitions?

Updated for 2020, the Alberta Construction Trade Definitions are a complete list of inclusions and exclusions pertaining to scopes of work for trades in Alberta. The definitions are used during the tendering process and to help coordinate job site activities. They specify which contractor is responsible for specific areas of work.

Construction associations across Alberta endorse adoption of the 2020 ACA Trade Definitions as a best practice. Tender authorities, design consultants, specification writers, contractors, and suppliers all benefit from using and citing the Trade Definitions. Together, we can reduce confusion, errors, RFIs, and disputes – and set a standard for more consistent and compliant bids in Alberta.

The 2020 Trade Definitions represent a comprehensive update to reflect current technology and business practice, and are the consensus result of input from many industry volunteers. The Definitions are not a tendering system – rather, they are a guideline. The allocation of work amongst trades on any given project remains the responsibility of the tender authority and general contractor.

All member companies and trade associations may request changes to any or all trade definitions by providing their request in writing to the Alberta Construction Association or the Edmonton Construction Association, care of the Trade Definitions Committee, before December 1st of each year. The request must include the change, reason for the change and the effect on the other scopes. The Trade Definitions Committee will review and rule on all requests. Changes to the definitions will be finalized and published on March 1st each year.

2020 ACA Trade Definitions

2019 ACA Trade Definitions

2018 ACA Trade Definitions

 2017 ACA Trade Definitions Video