Get Ahead of Climate Risk: New AIA Trust Tool Supports Safeguarding Practice

As climate-related hazards increase in severity and frequency, the responsibilities facing architects are evolving rapidly. While code compliance remains a professional standard, emerging case law suggests that code alone may no longer be enough—especially when it comes to foreseeable risks like flooding, wildfires, and extreme heat.To help architects navigate this shifting landscape, the AIA Trust has developed a new, actionable tool designed specifically for design professionals: the Climate Risk Factsheet for Architects.

This isn’t just a resource to read about—it’s a tool to help architects “see” the future of project-specific climate risks to help clients invest in resiliency measures.

The factsheet distills complex climate hazard identification with project type and location-specific analysis into clear, practical guidance. It’s designed to help architects initiate and document critical conversations with clients and owners—conversations that can protect your firm from future claims and reinforce your role as a proactive, trusted advisor.

We’re at an interesting inflection point. While some firms are building resilience into every project, others face uncertainty: inconsistent codes, budget pressures, or clients who don’t yet understand the risks ahead. The factsheet is designed to bridge that gap. It equips architects with plain-language visuals and flagged risks for managing client expectations early in the process.

Importantly, the factsheet isn’t meant to stand alone. It works best when used alongside documentation tools such as the Hazard and Climate Risk Users Guide and Acknowledging Risk Form, which helps architects clearly record discussions and decisions made with owners. Pairing the two supports not only transparency, but also risk transfer—clarifying what the architect is (and is not) responsible for.

Using this tool can also signal a firm’s alignment with evolving professional liability best practices. As design professionals face heightened scrutiny around climate risk, resources like this one—developed in collaboration with legal and insurance experts—can offer valuable protection and peace of mind.

You can learn more about the background behind this initiative in our supporting article, but the best place to start is here: https://theaiatrust.com/home/climate-factsheet/ 

This tool is part of a larger commitment by AIA and the AIA Trust to empower architects with practical strategies for resilience and risk management. Additional resources like the Resilience Design Toolkit can further help integrate climate-aware thinking into every phase of design.

As legal precedents evolve and client expectations shift, one thing is clear: addressing climate risk is no longer optional—it’s an essential part of protecting your practice, your projects, and the public. Start with the tools that help you do just that.

Unlock Special Pricing on the Climate Risk Factsheet—Protect Your Practice and Your Bottom Line

Investing in your firm’s resilience has never been more accessible. AIA members can purchase the indispensable Climate Risk Factsheet at a competitive flat rate of $400—giving you expert guidance to confidently navigate climate risks.

Better yet, if your professional liability coverage is placed through Victor Insurance/CNA, a trusted AIA Trust partner, you qualify for exclusive discounts:

• Just $260 when you order during July 2025 ($300, outside of July promotion)

These tailored savings make it easier than ever to equip your practice with the tools you need to stay ahead of emerging climate liability challenges. Don’t miss this opportunity to safeguard your future with one of the industry’s most practical and effective risk management resources.