Tools › Industries › Manufacturing › Quality Assurance Agreement

Quality Assurance Agreement for Fabricated Metal Manufacturing

Fabricated Metal Product Manufacturing · NAICS 332 · Quality Assurance Agreement

In fabricated metal manufacturing, quality is not just about meeting specs—it's about preventing costly rework, delays, and liability. A Quality Assurance Agreement (QAA) sets clear expectations for tolerances, weld quality, surface finish, and inspection procedures before production begins. This agreement helps metal fabricators and their customers align on industry standards like AWS D1.1 and ASTM, ensuring that every part meets the required blueprint. It also defines how non-conformances are handled, protecting both parties. Use this template to create a fair, enforceable QAA that reduces disputes and builds trust with your clients.

When you need this document

When taking on a new custom fabrication project with tight tolerances or critical weld requirements.
When a customer requires formal quality documentation, such as material certs or weld inspection reports.
When you want to establish a baseline for quality with a repeat buyer to avoid disputes over workmanship.
When subcontracting part of a metal fabrication job and need to pass down quality requirements.
When a customer requests a quality agreement as part of their supplier qualification process.

What the generated draft includes

Scope of products and applicable industry standards (e.g., AWS D1.1, ASTM A36).
Detailed quality requirements: dimensional tolerances, weld acceptance criteria, surface finish and coating specs.
Inspection and testing methods, including first article inspection and final random sampling.
Non-conformance and corrective action process, including rejection and rework rights.
Warranty terms for defects in materials and workmanship.
Documentation and record-keeping requirements, such as material test reports and certificates of conformance.

Frequently asked questions

Why do I need a separate Quality Assurance Agreement if I already have a supply agreement?

A supply agreement covers commercial terms like price and delivery, but a QAA dives into technical specifications and quality control. It prevents misunderstandings about tolerances, weld quality, and inspection procedures, which are critical in metal fabrication. Having both ensures your quality expectations are legally enforceable.

What industry standards should I reference in my agreement?

Common standards for fabricated metal include AWS D1.1 for structural welding, ASTM A36 for carbon steel, and ISO 9001 for quality management systems. Your specific project may require others, such as ASME for pressure vessels. Always specify the exact standards and editions to avoid ambiguity.

Can I require the customer to pay for third-party inspections?

Yes, you can include a clause that allows the customer to arrange third-party inspections at their cost, provided they give reasonable notice. However, many agreements state that the supplier will cover costs if the product is found non-conforming. It's a negotiable point that should be clearly stated in the agreement.

Self-help document generator: you get a structured draft based on the facts you provide. It is not legal, tax, or financial advice; verify jurisdiction-specific rules before sending.