ARE 5.0 - Construction & Evaluation - Questions

During which period in the curing process does concrete gain the most compressive strength? (A) 0-3 days (B) 3-7 days (C) 7-14 days (D) 14-28 days

(A) 0-3 days concrete gains the most compressive strength during the first few days of curing. This is the most critical time in the curing process, and it is important that the concrete be protected from freezing or evaporation during this time. If the concrete is unprotected and environmental conditions are unfavorable, the ultimate compressive strength of the concrete could be greatly reduced Concrete continues to gain strength after 28 days, but for the purpose of design strengths and testing, the compressive strength of concrete is always referred to as its strength 28 days after it is placed

A local code official has the authority to enforce all but which of the following codes or acts (A) Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) (B) Life Safety Code (NFPA 101) (C) International Building Code (IBC) (D) ICC/ANSI A117.1

(A) Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) The ADA is civil rights legislation that gives building users the right to sue the owner of a building if they are denied access to a facility because the building is not accessible The other three options are model codes or standards that, when adopted by a community government, become the building code

During the construction of a multi-tenant retail project, one potential tenant requests the addition of 500 ft2 of space. Not wanting to lose the potential tenant, the owner agrees and directs the architect to make the changes. The owner and contractor are unable to agree on the cost and time-frame for the change. What should the architect do? (A) Issue a construction change directive (B) Prepare a change order for the contractor to approve (C) Revise the contract (D) Change the shop drawings

(A) Issue a construction change directive A change order allows a change that affects the project time or cost to be made. In this case, the owner does not want to revise the contract. The architect has no authority to revise the contract between the owner and the contractor. The architect may not make changes to shop drawings, especially if they were reviewed and approved before the change to the construction documents occurs The architect may issue a construction change directive to order a change in construction before the owner and contractor agree on cost or time-frame adjustments. As such, the owner can order the change without revising the contract, and the work can continue. The directive must be signed by the owner and the architect. The costs and schedule are determined after the directive is issued.

An architect is visiting a project site on a rainy afternoon to observe the progress of work and certify a pay application. While photographing the site, she witnesses a construction worker slip on a wet board and fall from the scaffolding. The worker is obviously injured and appears to be unconscious. After calling 911, what should the architect do? (A) Notify the superintendent immediately and then fully document the accident with a written report and photographs (B) Report the incident to the superintendent immediately and then notify the owner before taking other action (C) Conduct an investigation (D) Do nothing more; construction safety is the responsibility of the contractor

(A) Notify the superintendent immediately and then fully document the accident with a written report and photographs When the emergency situation has been resolved, the architect should fully document the incident, noting the name of the worker and any available information about their condition, the names of any other witnesses, the time and location of the incident, conditions observed at the site, and any other pertinent information. If a camera is available, the architect should also take pictures. This is not an investigation; it is documenting what the architect witnessed.

Which party is permitted to accept nonconforming work? (A) Owner (B) Architect (C) Contractor (D) Code official

(A) Owner Nonconforming work is any work that does not align with the contract documents In the event that the Owner desires to accept nonconforming work that is not code compliant or endangers the health, safety, and welfare of the public, the Architect should object to the acceptance and insist on conformance

At the scheduled time for a public bid opening, a contractor comes rushing into the room three minutes late, clutching his bid, and asks the architect to accept it because he was stuck in traffic. None of the bids have been opened yet. According to A701, Instructions to Bidders, what should the architect do? (A) Refuse to accept the bid, stating that the deadline has passed (B) Since none of the bids have been opened yet, ask the other bidders if they will object to accepting the late bid. If none object, accept the bid (C) Accept the bid with prejudice (D) Stop the bidding process and require that all bids be resubmitted at a later time

(A) Refuse to accept the bid, stating that the deadline has passed AIA A701 requires that bids be deposited at the designated location prior to the time and date indicated for receipt. Bids submitted after the deadline are ineligible for consideration and should be returned to the bidder unopened

An architect is working on a small retail project in a city that has adopted the IBC. The owner's agreement with the contractor includes AIA A201, General Conditions of the Contract for Construction. During a site visit, the architect discovers that an exterior exit door has been installed backwards, so that the door swings in. The door is shown swinging out on the drawings. Which of the following is an appropriate response from the architect (A) Reject the work and instruct the contractor to comply with the requirements of the construction documents (B) Revise the drawing and send it to the code official with an addendum to the approved documents stating that the door is no longer an exit door (C) Advise the owners that they may choose to accept the nonconforming work and leave the door in place in exchange for a credit from the contractor (D) Instruct the contractor to remove the existing door and frame, and order a new door and frame

(A) Reject the work and instruct the contractor to comply with the requirements of the construction documents The architect is obligated to abide by applicable building codes and laws, and this incorrect installation violates the IBC requirements.

A project is being completed under the provisions of AIA B101-SP, Standard Form of Agreement Between Owner and Architect, for Use on a Sustainable Project. When this agreement is used, which aspect of determining construction progress differs from the terms of AIA B101, Standard Form of Agreement Between Owner and Architect? (A) The architect must notify the owner of any deviation from the contract documents that could affect the project's sustainability (B) The contractor is required to include specific steps that will be taken to achieve sustainability goals in the overall project schedule (C) The architect must make additional site visits to verify the contractor's compliance with the project schedule (D) The owner must list individual sustainability issues for the architect to verify during site visits

(A) The architect must notify the owner of any deviation from the contract documents that could affect the project's sustainability

Which of the following would require issuance of a change order? (A) The owner and architect decide to delete under-cabinet lighting from all of the kitchens in an apartment project (B) The architect changes the location of a few lighting fixtures in a suspended grid ceiling to better illuminate workstations shown on the interior designer's modular furniture plan (C) In the course of answering a question from the contractor, the architect notices a discrepancy between the plan and section and prepares a sketch to clarify the drawings (D) The architect revises the color schedule based on the manufacturers's products the contractor intends to install

(A) The owner and architect decide to delete under-cabinet lighting from all of the kitchens in an apartment project An ASI allows the architect to clarify information in the construction documents or make minor changes to the work, provided that those changes do not affect the contract sum or time Change orders modify the contract between the owner and the contractor and are used in situations where a change to the project time or cost is ncessary

When the owner wants to make sure some amount of money is included in the bid for a particular item before the exact specification for the item is known, the architect should use a(n) (A) allowance (B) add alternate (C) material bond (D) unit price

(A) allowance When the owner wants to make sure some amount of money is included in the bid before the exact amount of the item is known, the architect should use an allowance. For example, the contractor may be asked to include a $10,000 allowance on a residential project for kitchen appliances. This gives the architect and owner the opportunity to choose the appliances at a later date. If the cost of the selected appliances exceeds the allowance, the contractor is owed the difference. Alternates are used to require the contractor to provide a price for a defined scope of work that varies from the base bid scope of work. Alternates can either "add" or "deduct" depending on the change to the contract amount The owner may require the contractor to present a material bond. This bod ensures that subcontractors or suppliers will be paid by the surety if the contractor fails to compensate them, and it helps protect the owner from liens A unit price is a way to obtain a price commitment from a contractor on a portion of work before the total quantity of the work is known

According to AIA A201, the contractor must submit an affidavit that all bills have been paid by the contractor before the owner's final payment is made. This affidavit must be submitted to the (A) architect (B) owner (C) owner's surety (C) owner's attorney

(A) architect AIA A201, Sec 9.10.2, requires various documents to be submitted to the architect prior to the final payment. The architect then forwards these documents to the owner while keeping a copy for the project records

During a site visit, the architect notices that a worker has installed studs at 24in on center, not 16in on center as shown on the drawings. Under the provisions of AIA A201, General Conditions of the Contract for Construction, the authority to reject this work rests with the (A) architect (B) owner (C) owner and architect (D) general contractor

(A) architect According to AIA A201, Sec 4.2.6, the architect has the authority to reject work that does not conform to the contract documents

A punch list is created and maintained by the (A) architect (B) authority having jurisdiction (C) contractor (D) owner

(A) architect The punch list is a list of items still needing completion. It is created and maintained by the architect

Which of the following parties are required to agree to a construction change directive? (A) architect and owner (B) architect and contractor (C) owner and contractor (D) architect, owner, and contractor

(A) architect and owner AIA A201, Sec. 7.1.2, states that a construction change directive requires agreement by the owner and architect and may or may not be agreed to by the contractor. The construction change directive requires the contractor to proceed with the work. The contract is later modified by change order to reflect the compensation due to the contractor

If too much water is included in a concrete mix, which of the following problems might develop? (A) laitance (B) efflorescence (C) hydration (D) segregation

(A) laitance Laitance is a surface deposit of low-strength material containing cement and fine aggregates (sand) brought to the surface of concrete. It is caused by having too much water in the concrete mix, which results in water bleeding to the top Effloresence is a white, crystalline deposit of water-soluble salts on the surface of masonry and sometimes concrete. It is caused when water seeps into the masonry and dissolves soluble salts, which are brought to the surface. When the water evaporates, the salts are left on the surface Hydration is simply the chemical process of the hardening of concrete when water mixes with cement. Segregation is the separation of the constituent parts of the concrete when the concrete is either dropped too far or moved excessively in the horizontal direction while it is being placed

Which of the following requires on-site approval? (A) mock-ups (B) product data (C) samples (D) shop drawings

(A) mock-ups Product data, samples, and shop drawings may all be provided by the contractor for the architect's review. This documentation is known as a submittal and can be reviewed at the architect's office. A mock-up is a full-sized sample of a portion of the construction, commonly built on the job site. It can be either separate from the building or, if approved, can be integrated into the building. Mock-ups can be very expensive, so they should only be specified where necessary. They become more cost effective if the approved mock-up can then be integrated into the building

A client has asked the architect to help review information submitted by contractors on AIA A305, Contractor's Qualification Statement. Which of the following characteristics is the least indicative of the contractor's ability to complete the project successfully? (A) number of people on the contractor's in-house staff (B) financial qualifications and bonding capacity (C) experience with similar project types (D) history of finishing projects on time and budget

(A) number of people on the contractor's in-house staff The size of the contractor's in-house staff is not necessarily indicative of the firm's capabilities because the contractor may subcontract portions of the work

Addenda are issued (A) prior to receipt of bids (B) after receipt of bids but before work commences (C) after the award of the contract (D) during construction

(A) prior to receipt of bids An addendum is a written or graphic document issued by the architect prior to submission of contractors' bids that modifies or interprets the bidding documents. Addenda may be issued in response to errors discovered in the bidding documents, changes the client wants to make, questions from bidders, or additions or deletions needed. Addenda must be sent to all bidders at least four days prior to the bid date. Most forms ask bidders to acknowledge receipt of any addenda to help ensure that all bids are based on the same information

An amount of money withheld from each application for payment is known as (A) retainage (B) deduction (C) overhead (D) liquidated damages

(A) retainage Retainage is a percentage of the contract sum held back from applications for payment, usually around 10%. The money is paid to the contractor when the project has been completed satisfactorily; in the meantime, the retainage gives the owner leverage to ensure that the work is completed on time and in accordance with the construction documents. Retainage also helps to protect the owner against lien claims by ensuring that the owner has funds available to pay for materials or labor should the contractor fail to pay for them. Before retainage is released or decreased, the surety company that provided the contractor's performance bond should give written consent to the payment

Substantial completion indicates (A) that the owner can make use of the work for its intended purpose, and the requirements of the contract documents have been fulfilled (B) that the contractor has completed correction of all punch list items (C) that the final certificate for payment has been issued by the architect, and all documentation has been delivered to the owner (D) the date on which the contractor prepares the punch list

(A) that the owner can make use of the work for its intended purpose, and the requirements of the contract documents have been fulfilled Substantial completion is the point at which the owner can make use of the work for its intended purpose, and the requirements of the contract documents have been fulfilled. This is a critical point in construction because it marks the date that the building owner assumes the warranty on the equipment. It is possible for a project to be deemed substantially complete even if punch list items remain incomplete

A contractor installs drywall before the owner's audio visual system installer has an opportunity to visit the site to review the framing. After inspection on site, the installer contacts the architect and expresses concern that the blocking has not been installed at the correct locations to support the television mounts in a conference room. The required blocking locations and sizes are shown on the contract documents. The architect requests that the drywall be removed in these areas to confirm the concealed construction before the televisions are installed. When the drywall is removed, the architect finds that the blocking has been installed in the correct locations, but it is not the size shown on the drawings and it is inadequate to support the weight of the audiovisual equipment. Who is responsible for the cost of uncovering this concealed work and repairing the wall? (A) the contractor (B) the owner (C) the audiovisual system installer (D) the architect

(A) the contractor If the architect requested that the work be removed and the concealed work is correct, the owner is responsible for the cost of this additional work. However, the contractor is responsible for the cost of uncovering and correcting any work that does not comply with the construction documents

Which of the following decisions may minimize the effect of inclement weather on construction time? (A) the use of prefabricated elements (B) the use of designs that contribute to improved sequencing (C) the use of union labor (D) beginning construction in the spring

(A) the use of prefabricated elements Inclement weather can have significant impact on the amount of time it takes to erect a building. One way to minimize this effect is to construct portions of the building off-site and bring them to the site for installation. This allows work to continue indoors even when weather conditions on site prohibit progress

How should communication between the contractor and design consultants be conducted during the construction phase? (A) through the architect (B) through the owner (C) through the owner and the architect (D) directly between the contractor and the design consultants

(A) through the architect During construction observation, definite lines of communication among the parties are established by A201, General Conditions of the Contract for Construction. During this time communication between the contractor and the architect's design consultants proceed through the architect

Which of the following statements about post-occupancy evaluations (POEs) is true? (A) typically made three to six months after occupancy (B) a standard part of an architect's services (C) typically paid for by the client (D) performed for the benefit of the client, not the architect

(A) typically made three to six months after occupancy A post-occupancy evaluation is a review of a completed project, typically made three to six months after occupancy. However, it is not a standard part of an architect's services. It is most often performed at the architect's expense for the benefit of the architectural firm

Which of these project management tools or approaches requires developing a project schedule that associates time and budget allowances with each activity? (A) use of a project monitoring chart (B) critical path method (C) integrated project management (D) use of a schedule of values

(A) use of a project monitoring chart A project monitoring chart is an architectural project management tool that is used to predict both the time and the amount of money (or percentage) needed to complete certain tasks. The actual time and money expended during the project can be compared periodically to the budgeted numbers in order to determine whether or not the project is on track A similar approach is earned value management, which may be used by a contractor to determine the percentage of project completion of each line item on the schedule of values. This information is then transferred to the contractor's periodic applications for payment

The architect is reviewing a critical path method (CPM) schedule from the contractor. The critical path is 200 calendar days, the total float is 30 days, and the contractor is planning for a 5-day work week. Based on this information, the architect could conclude that the construction time (A) will be about 40 weeks (B) may be as long as 46 weeks (C) could be shortened to 32 weeks (D) cannot be delayed more than 6 weeks

(A) will be about 40 weeks The critical path is the sequence of events that must happen as scheduled in order for a project to be completed on time. Dividing 5 work days per calendar week into 200 total days gives a 40-week construction time Float represents the range of time during which noncritical activities may start or end without affecting the overall schedule. Total float is the individual float times added together; it does not influence the critical path time interval

The certificate of substantial completion is signed by whom? Check any that apply. (A) Owner (B) Architect (C) Contractor (D) Building inspector

(A), (B), (C) The certificate of substantial completion is signed by the Architect, Contractor, and Owner

Which of these should be included in an advertisement to bid? (Choose the four that apply.) (A) the name and address of the architect (B) the date, time, and location of the pre-bid conference (C) the amount of the deposit required to obtain copies of the bidding documents (D) the names of acceptable subcontractors (E) bid forms (F) the date, time, and location at which bids are due

(A), (B), (C), (F) Advertisement to bid includes the following items + a name, location, and description of the project + the name and address of the owner and architect + instruction for obtaining a set of bidding documents and/or locations where bid documents may be viewed + the date, time, and location of the pre-bid conference if scheduled + the date, time, and location the bids are due + the type and amount of bid bond required + the date and time of the bid opening and whether or not the bids will be read publicly + any other information that the owner or the owner's attorney feels should be included Bid forms are generally included in the bid package provided to interested contractors. Selection of subcontractors is the general contractor's responsibility to bid

Which of the following statements about building commissioning services are correct? (Choose the three that apply.) (A) Commissioning services can be provided by the same firm that designed the systems being evaluated (B) Commissioning services typically cost between 0.5% and 6% of the total construction cost (C) Commissioning services are required by AIA B101, Standard Form of Agreement Between Owner and Architect (D) Commissioning services should be contracted during the pre-design phase of project planning (E) The commissioning agent offers a warranty to the owner that the systems will perform as specified after the commissioning is complete (F) The IBC requires all buildings to be commissioned

(A), (B), (D) Building commisioning is the process of verifying that the building systems and equipment are designed, installed, tested, and capable of being operated and maintained according to the owner's operational needs. Commissioning services can be provided by the same firm that originally designed the building systems being evaluated, provided that his fact is disclosed to the owner It typically costs between 0.5-6% of total construction costs, with fees increasing proportionately to the complexity of the systems within the building and the extent of the commisioning activities. Commissioning plans should be established during the pre-design phase, and commissioning activities will continue throughout the design, construction and operations phases. Commissioning is required for buildings seeking LEED certification, and this program sets its own requirements for these services

Upon completion of the work, which of the following items must the contractor submit? (Choose the three that apply.) (A) extra stock of materials as listed in the specifications (B) certification of occupancy issued by the building official (C) copies of all change orders completed during the course of the work (D) warranties and operating instructions as required in notes on the mechanical and electrical drawings or in the specifications (E) certificates of inspection (F) certificates of testing

(A), (B), (D) Copies of change orders are not required at this time, as this paperwork would be issued throughout the course of the project Certificates of testing are required to be submitted to the architect promptly after each test, not at the completion of the work Items required by the contract documents must be submitted to the owner before the work is considered complete. This includes extra stock of building materials and warranties and instruction manuals required by the specifications. The contractor must also submit to the architect all documents required with the application for final payment, maintenance contracts, and a set of record drawings if required by the contract documents. Although a certificate of occupancy is issued by the building official, it is normally submitted by the contractor to the owner

According to AIA B101, Standard Form of Agreement Between Owner and Architect, which of the following services is included in the architect's basic services for project closeout? (Choose the four that apply.) (A) forwarding written warranties to the owner (B) sending a consent of surety to the owner (C) commissioning (D) meeting with the owner to determine the need for facility operation services (E) post-occupancy walk through within one year (F) transfer project insurance from the contractor to the owner

(A), (B), (D), (E) AIA B101, Article 4, addresses additional services that the architect will provide only if specifically designated or approved in advance by the owner. Commissioning is one of these services, existing facilities surveys, site analysis, landscape design, interior design, detailed cost estimating, on-site project representation, record drawings, and post-contract evaluation beyond one meeting with the owner to review the facilities performance, within one year of substantial completion

According to AIA B101, which of the following services is included in the architect's basic services for project closeout? (Choose the four that apply.) (A) forwarding written warranties to the owner (B) sending consent of surety to the owner (C) commisioning (D) meeting with the owner to determine the need for facility operation services (E) post-occupancy walk through within one year (F) transfer project insurance from the contractor to the owner

(A), (B), (D), (E) B101, Article 4, addresses additional services that the architect will provide only if specifically designated or approved in advance by the owner. Additional services include: + Commisioning + Programming + Geotechnical services + Existing facilities surveys + Site analysis + Landscape design + Interior design + Detailed cost estimating + Post-contract evaluation beyond one meeting with the owner to review the facility's performance within one year of substantial completion

Which of the following are included in the bidding documents? (Choose the four that apply.) (A) specifications (B) invitation to bid (C) owner-architect agreement (D) owner contractor agreement (E) performance bond requirements (F) change orders

(A), (B), (D), (E) The owner-architect agreement and any change orders are not included in the bidding documents. The project specifications, the invitation to bid, a sample copy of the owner-contractor agreement, and performance bond requirements would be provided to bidders

Which of the following are expected results of a properly designed and implemented building commissioning plan? (Choose the four that apply.) (A) increased energy efficiency (B) comprehensive training program for maintenance staff (C) verification of 100% of the building systems by the commissioning agent (CxA) (D) operation and maintenance manuals delivered to the owner in a useful and organized format (E) record drawings for all heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) and electrical components (F) improved indoor air quality

(A), (B), (D), (F) Building commissioning does not ensure verification of 100% of building systems (that responsibility lies with the contractor) and does not include record drawings Building commissioning can be expected to provide increased energy efficiency, improve indoor air quality, a comprehensive training program for maintenance staff (conducted either by the commissioning agent or the contractor), and organized operations and maintenance manuals (assembled by the contractor, design professional, or commissioning agent).

Which of the following are benefits of constructing an on-site mock-up of the exterior building envelope? (Choose the four that apply.) (A) The owner and architect can use the assembly to confirm the colors and types of masonry and mortar to be used for an addition matching the existing construction (B) Construction of the mock-up can provide a way for the contractor to determine the most efficient construction sequence (C) The fire resistance of individual materials specified for use on the project may be determined through testing of the on-site mock-up in lieu of laboratory testing (D) The mock-up wall assembly can be used to work out the connections between materials and to determine the water and air resistance properties of the assembly (E) A mock-up allows manufacturers to determine the length of the warranty that will be available for their products when they are installed in this particular configuration (F) The mock-up can be used to establish appearance criteria and may be used as a reference to evaluate the quality of work

(A), (B), (D), (F) Fire resistance tests must be conducted in a lab Similarly, product warranty are determined by the manufacturer based on the properties of the material; they are not dependent upon site conditions

Which of the following statements is correct regarding sick building syndrome? (Choose the three that apply.) (A) Increasing the quantity of outdoor air in the heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system can help prevent or remedy sick building syndrome (B) Insufficient ventilation in areas with high concentrations of odor or chemicals can cause nausea and headaches (C) Radon and asbestos cause sick building syndrom (D) Sick building syndrome causes long-term symptoms that continue after the occupants leave the building (E) Legionnaires' disease is an example of a building related illness (F) All sick building syndrome symptoms are the result of poor performance of the HVAC system

(A), (B), (E) Sick building syndrome is a term used to describe conditions where a significant number of building occupants report some type of physical malaise within a specified period of time, usually about two weeks. Physical symptoms can include dizziness, skin irritation, headaches, nausea, sore throats, and other respiratory problems. Generally, these symptoms disappear or are significantly reduced when the occupants leave the building. Insufficient or contaminated outdoor air entering the building is the most common reason for occupant complaints. This can be caused by improper balancing of the system, or by locating the air intakes too close to a source of contamination such as an exhaust, parking, or trash collection area.

A renovation project at a large classroom building on a college campus is scheduled to take place in two phases during the next summer and the winter break when classes are not in session. All windows in the building are to be replaced, and the window manufacturer's representative advises the college to purchase all the windows at one time to take advantage of considerable savings. The college facilities staff thinks this is a good idea but does not have room to store the windows on campus, so the college requests that the contractor purchase and store the windows until they are needed. The contractor submits the first pay application, which includes a request for payment for 60% of the windows line item on the schedule of values. What should the architect do prior to certifying the pay application? (Choose the four that apply.) (A) Request copies of bills of sale and insurance for the windows (B) Visit the location where the windows are stored (C) Submit documentation to the owner's attorney for evaluation prior to certifying the pay application (D) Request written approval from the owner (E) Verify that the contractor has secured insurance coverage for the materials (F) Verify that the storage conditions comply with the specification requirements

(A), (B), (E), (F) In certifying applications for payment, it is the architect's responsibility to protect the interest of the owner. The architect should do whatever is necessary to determine that the materials are in the possession of the contractor and are being stored properly before consenting to payment for the windows. In most cases, requesting a copy of the bill of sale and verifying that the items are indeed in the contractor's possession and are being stored appropriately will be adequate documentation to certify the pay application

During construction, the contractor makes a claim to the initial decision maker to extend the contract time because the owner failed to account for the lead time associated with certain equipment to be provided by the owner and installed by the contractor, and this delayed the project for four weeks. Under AIA A201, General Conditions of the Contract for Construction, which of the following actions by the IDM is permitted? (Choose the four that apply.) (A) Tell the owner and contractor that the determination cannot be made due to lack of information (B) Request additional information from the contractor (C) Refer the claim to the owner's attorney (D) The IDM is not permitted to resolve claims (E) Approve the claim (F) Reject the claim

(A), (B), (E), (F) Under the provisions of Sec 15.2 of A201, when reviewing a claim, the IDM must take one or more of the following actions (1) approve the claim (2) reject the claim (3) suggest a compromise (4) request additional data from the claimant or a response with supporting data from the other party (5) advise the parties that the IDM is unable to resolve the claim due to a lack of sufficient information to evaluate the merits of the claim or because the IDM concludes that it will be inappropriate for the IDM to resolve the claim

After a project is completed the Architect should conduct which closeout activities? Check the three that apply. (A) Retention of project-related documents (B) Debriefing project staff (C) Internal dissemination of project information (D) Creating a project contact file (E) Surveying the completed project

(A), (C), (D) According to the Architect's Handbook of Professional Practice, the Architect's closeout activities should include: + Retention of project-related documents + Internal dissemination of project information + Maintenance of a client / creating a project contact file

According to AIA A201, General Conditions of the Contract for Construction, the architect's duties when processing the contractor's application for payment include which of the following? (Choose the four that apply.) (A) comparing work done and materials stored to the contractor's schedule of values (B) making an exhaustive on-site inspection to verify that work has been completed properly (C) approving a certificate for payment if the architect feels the contractor is due payment in the amount stated (D) using information gathered during previous site visits to determine that the work is in accordance with the contract documents (E) verifying that subcontractors have been paid from funds dispersed via previous pay applications (F) determining that the amount of retainage is appropriate to the stage of construction

(A), (C), (D), (F) AIA A201, Sec. 9.4.2, specifically states that the issuance of a certificate for payment is not a representation that the architect has (1) made exhaustive or continuous on-site inspections, (2) reviewed construction means, methods, techniques, sequences, or procedures, (3) reviewed copies of requisitions received from subcontractors and other data, or (4) made examination to ascertain how or for what purpose the contractor has used money previously paid

During construction, the contractor asks the architect to allow the installation of a different floor tile than originally specified because the proposed new tile can be delivered faster. According to AIA A201, General Conditions of the Contract for Construction, which of the following statements are true about this request? (Choose the four that apply.) (A) The owner's consent is required to allow this change to be made (B) The tile, if approved, will not be covered by warranty (C) The substitution muse be made with a change order (D) The architect must evaluate the request and determine that the material is equal to that originally specified (E) A change order would be issued if the cost of the new tile is greater than the cost of the specified tile (F) The contractor is responsible for any additional cost associated with the change

(A), (C), (D), and (F) AIA A201, Sec 3.4.2, states that the contractor may make substitutions only with the owner's consent, after evaluation by the architect and in accordance with a change order or construction change directive. The substitution will be covered by warranty. In this case, the substitution is being made for the contractor's convenience. If an adjustment to the cost is necessary, it will be made by change order

Which of the following affects a subcontractor's proposed price? (Choose the four that apply.) (A) number of times that equipment must be mobilized (B) types of tools needed to build a project (C) number of workers needed to complete the work (D) stage of the project at which the subcontractor will be on site (E) scope of work and quantity of materials required (F) insurance and bonding requirements

(A), (C), (E), (F) The stage of the project at which the subcontractor will perform the work would not determine the price of the work. The types of tools needed to complete the job may, under some circumstances, have some bearing on cost if they must be purchased or rented, but normally a subcontractor would have access to the tools required for the trade. A subcontractor would be most interested in the number of times equipment must be brought to a job site, the size of the workforce and the skills that will be required, and the owner's requirements for insurance and bonding because all of these have cost implications

At the completion of a project, what is the architect required to provide to the owner? (Choose the three that apply.) (A) final certificate of payment (B) occupancy permit (C) consent of surety to release retainage and lien and bond wavers (D) warranty that the construction complies with all applicable codes (E) insurance coverage transfer from the architect to the owner (F) inspection

(A), (C), (F) Architects do not issue occupancy permits; these permits are authorized by the code official in the project jurisdiction. The architect is not responsible for property insurance on the project, therefore, the architect cannot be responsible to transferring this insurance to another party AIA B101, Standard Form of Agreement Between Owner and Architect, Sec 3.6.6, deals with project completion. (A) The architect must also prepare a final certificate for payment (C) The architect must also obtain from the contractor and forward to the owner any written warranties required by the contract documents, consent of the surety to release retainage and make the final payment, and releases or waivers of liens or bonds indemnifying the owner against liens. (F) The architect must perform an inspection to determine the date of substantial completion and final completion.

An Architect working on a design-build project would be responsible for which of the following cost control functions? Check the two that apply (A) Cost estimate of the Architect's segment of the Work in the project (B) Provide full cost estimate for the entire project (C) Value engineering (D) Provide evaluations of the design-builder's budget for the Works (E) Create a bill of quantities for work completed

(A), (D) In a design-build project, the following cost control functions is usually the Architect's responsibility: Cost estimate of the Architect's segment of Work in the project Provide evaluations of the design-builder's budget for the Work

Which of the following statements are true? (Choose the three that apply.) (A) Shop drawings are usually more detailed than other project drawings (B) Shop drawings are usually less detailed than other project drawings (C) Shop drawings may be prepared by the general contractor only (D) Shop drawings may be prepared by suppliers and subcontractors (E) Shop drawings are reviewed by the architect and the general contractor (F) Shop drawings are prepared by the structural engineer

(A), (D), (E) Shop drawings are usually more detailed than other project drawings because they include information specific to the manufacturer's proposed system.

Which of the following hazardous materials may be found in insulation products? (Choose the two that apply.) (A) asbestos (B) lead (C) polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) (D) radon (E) crystalline silica (F) glass fiber

(A), (F) Asbestos and glass fiber have been common components of insulation products. Asbestos was banned in the 1980s when it was determined that exposure to disturbed material causes cancer and related respiratory diseases. It can still be found in old buildings in wall and pipe insulation, floor and ceiling tiles, and equipment. Glass fiber requires special handling procedures to comply with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards, such as protective clothing, respirators, and eye protection to keep the fibers away from the body. Prolonged unprotected exposure to glass fiber can irritate the skin and respiratory tract; it is undetermined if the material can cause cancer

In what order should project closeout activities take place? (A) contractor compiles punch list, architect issues certificate of substantial completion, consent of surety is received and final payment to contractor is release, architect receives notice from contractor that the project is ready for final inspection, architect prepares the final certificate for payment (B) contractor compiles punch list, architect issues certificate of substantial completion, architect receives notice from contractor that the project is ready for final inspection, architect prepares the final certificate for payment, consent of surety is received and final payment to contractor is released (C) architect receives notice from contractor that the project is ready for final inspection, contractor compiles punch list, consent of surety is received and final payment to contractor is released, architect prepares the final certificate for payment, architect issues certificate of substantial completion (D) architect receives notice from contractor that the project is ready for final inspection, consent of surety is received and final payment to contractor is released, contractor compiles punch list, architect issues certificate of substantial completion, architect prepares the final certificate for payment

(B) contractor: (1) compiles punch list (2) architect issues certificate of substantial completion (3) architect receives notice from contractor that the project is ready for final inspection (4) architect prepares the final certificate for payment (5) consent of surety is received and final payment to contractor is released

Which of the following statements is the most acceptable for an architect to certify? (A) "The architect certifies to the owner that, in the architect's professional opinion, the contractor has spent the amount indicated and is entitled to payment in the amount certified" (B) "The architect certifies to the owner that, to the best of the architect's knowledge, information, and belief, the work has progressed to the point indicated, the quality of the work is in accordance with the contract documents, and the contractor is entitled to payment in the amount certified." (C) "The architect certifies that the contract documents comply with all applicable codes, standards, and regulations." (D) "Based on the architect's observations and other information available to the architect, the contractor has complied with the IBC throughout the course of construction."

(B) "The architect certifies to the owner that, to the best of the architect's knowledge, information, and belief, the work has progressed to the point indicated, the quality of the work is in accordance with the contract documents, and the contractor is entitled to payment in the amount certified."

Which of the following is the most appropriate way to announce bid results? (A) The architect should make a statement at the conclusion of the bid opening identifying the apparent low bidder (B) After evaluation all of the bids, the owner should make a decision of award, and the architect should notify the bidders (C) The owner should call all of the bidders and give them the results (D) The owner should publish the bid results in the local newspaper

(B) After evaluation all of the bids, the owner should make a decision of award, and the architect should notify the bidders During the bid opening, the architect or a designated representative will open the bids, read them aloud, and record in a bid log the base bid amounts, bids for proposed alternates, confirmation of receipt of addenda, and whether required supporting documentation (such as a bid bond) is included with the bid. The architect should not announce the apparent low bidder at the bid opening

Which of the following statements regarding a performance bond is true? (A) Are mandatory in private projects (B) Are mandatory in public projects (C) Are only permitted on residential projects (D) The cost of the performance bond is paid by the contractor (E) Only a surety company can issue performance bonds

(B) Are mandatory in public projects A performance bond is a bond issued by a bank or other financial institution, guaranteeing the fulfillment of a particular contract. In the case of an Architecture project, it insures that there are sufficient finances for the Contractor to finish the work

After a two-week vacation, an architect returns to the office Monday morning and finds an application for payment waiting. The envelope is stamped with last Friday's date. How should the architect process this application? (A) Call the contractor to discuss the project's progress of the past two weeks (B) Compare the quantities listed on the pay application to the approved schedule of values, and visit the job site (C) Confer with others in the office who have been working on the project to determine whether or not to approve the application (D) Undertake a detailed site inspection, and review the subcontractor's invoices

(B) Compare the quantities listed on the pay application to the approved schedule of values, and visit the job site The architect should call the contractor to check in, but this does not substitute for a site visit The architect is legally and ethically required to see in person whether or not work has progressed sufficiently, even if others in the office may offer their observations.

The plumbing engineer's specifications for a new elementary school include a requirement that all toilets be wall-hung fixtures. The specifications list three manufacturers's acceptable models. The contractor sends the architect a submittal including cut sheets for all of the plumbing fixtures, but the submitted toilets sit on the floor rather than being wall-mounted. The contractor claims that the specified wall-mounted fixtures cannot be used in this building because the plumbing chase is too small to accommodate the carrier needed to support the fixture. What is the first course of action that the architect should take? (A) Accept the fixtures as described in the submittal (B) Have the plumbing engineer review the space requirements for the fixture carriers (C) Redesign the chase space between the restrooms to provide the needed space (D) Require the plumbing engineer to reject the submittal, and have the contractor resubmit with the specified toilet fixtures

(B) Have the plumbing engineer review the space requirements for the fixture carriers Before rejecting the submittal, accepting the features as described, or redesigning the chase, it is prudent to research the claim made by the contractor. The toilets are specified in documents prepared by the plumbing engineer, so it is appropriate for the architect to request that this consultant evaluate the space needed for the carrier and determine whether or not the contractor's claim is accurate. The other options should be considered only after this research is completed

At the beginning of the construction phase, the owner requests a change to the building layout that will require relocating a structural column and modifying the framing in the surrounding area. The column footing has not been constructed. The structural steel shop drawings have been submitted to the architect by the general contractor, but they have not yet been reviewed or approved by the architect or structural engineer. How should the architect initiate this change? (A) Revise the shop drawings to indicate the new column location and associated framing changes and return the submittal to the general contractor marked "Approved as Noted" (B) Issue a proposal to the owner for additional design services, and notify the contractor of the pending change (C) Consult with the general contractor to establish the cost increase (D) Consult with the steel fabricator and supplier to determine the schedule delay

(B) Issue a proposal to the owner for additional design services, and notify the contractor of the pending change The architect's first step should be to prepare an amendment to the owner-architect agreement. This design change has been initiated by the owner, and the architect is entitled to additional compensation for the revisions that will be required to move the column. When the amendment is approved by the owner, the architect may proceed with the design work The architect should notify the contractor that his change will be made so that construction work that may be affected by the change can be postponed Upon receipt of the revised scope of work and request for proposal from the architect, the contractor can prepare a proposal summarizing the cost of the work and the schedule modifications that will be necessary to make the change. The contractor must coordinate with subcontractors and suppliers to determine how the change will affect their schedules When the contractor's proposal is approved by the owner, the architect may prepare a change order to modify the construction contract

During the punch list inspection, the architect notices several items that are not completed and that will make it impossible for the client to occupy the space. According to A201, General Conditions of the Contractor for Construction, which of the following actions must the architect take? (A) Notify the owner of the incomplete items (B) Notify the contractor that there are unfinished items that must be finished before the project will be determined substantially complete (C) Prepare a certificate of substantial completion with a list of incomplete items attached (D) Revise the punch list and resubmit it to the contractor

(B) Notify the contractor that there are unfinished items that must be finished before the project will be determined substantially complete A201, Sec 9.8.3, requires the architect to complete an inspection of the project upon receipt of the contractor's punch list. The architect must notify the contractor of the unfinished items and work that is not in accordance with the contract documents. The contractor must then correct the items on the list so that the owner can occupy the work or a designated portion thereof for its intended use. This must happen before the architect can issue a certificate of substantial completion

Which of the following is most likely to be included in an informational submittal? (A) shop drawings of a storefront window assembly (B) Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for trowel-on block filler (C) vinyl wall samples (D) cut sheets for a paper towel dispenser

(B) Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for trowel-on block filler Shop drawings, samples, and cut sheets are examples of action submittals, which must be reviewed and approved by the architect before the work can proceed. Submittals are addressed in both AIA B101, Sec 3.6.4, and A201, Sec 3.12. Administrative procedures regarding submittals should be defined in Division 01 of the specifications

Which of these statements about substantial completion is correct? (A) Substantial completion occurs when the project receives a certificate of occupancy (B) Substantial completion is the date upon which the warranty period begins (C) The date of substantial completion is determined at the beginning of the project in the general contractor's schedule (D) When the project is determined to be substantially complete, the owner must make final payment to the contractor

(B) Substantial completion is the date upon which the warranty period begins The certificate of occupancy is provided by a code official, and its issuance is not related to the determination of substantial ocmpletion Substantial completion is the date upon which the work has reached a level of completion that allows the owner to occupy the building or a portion of the building and use it for its intended purpose. The substantial completion date is also the date on which the warranty period begins, and it marks the end of the contractor's schedule for the project The certificate of substantial completion includes the establishment of a prescribed schedule for closeout activities, which determines the timing for the completion of the work. The contractor must complete all of the work required by the contract and participate in the closeout activities, which include the architect's inspection of the work, the contractor's completion of the items on the punch list, submission of documents as required in the contract, and the determination of final completion At final completion, the owner makes the final payment to the contractor, including the withheld retainage

Five general contractors are invited to bid on a small office renovation project. The drawings are mailed to the bidders at the beginning of June, with bids due on July 2. The documents state that bidders are to list a unit price per square yard for providing and installing carpet. In the meantime, the owner decides to choose and order carpet through a local flooring distributor and provide it to the contractor to install. The architect issues an addendum to this effect on June 22, requesting that bidders delete the unit price and include installation of the carpet in their bids. Upon receipt of the addendum, one of the prospective bidders calls the architect and says that he has already delivered his bid to the owner's office. How should the architect respond? (A) Ask the contractor the amount he wishes to add to or deduct from the price and adjust the bid after the opening. (B) Tell the contractor to retrieve the bid from the owner, correct it to reflect receipt of the addendum and the revised price, and resubmit it to the owner (C) Require the contractor to submit another bid (D) Explain that the bid will not be considered valid without acknowledgment of receipt of the addendum

(B) Tell the contractor to retrieve the bid from the owner, correct it to reflect receipt of the addendum and the revised price, and resubmit it to the owner The architect should not interfere with the bidding process by modifying the bid in any way

A test for timber, required by the Contractor-Owner agreement on an institutional project, shows that the material does not meet the standard set forth in the contract documents. What statements regarding this scenario is true? (A) The Owner must pay for replacing the defective material and additional testing if required (B) The Contractor must pay for replacing the defective material and additional testing if required (C) The Contractor's insurer must pay for replacing the defective material and additional testing if required (D) The Architect must pay for replacing the defective material and additional testing if required

(B) The Contractor must pay for replacing the defective material and additional testing if required Since the required standard of the material has been set within the contract documents, it is the duty of the Contractor to ensure that the material meets this standard. Therefore, the Contractor must pay for replacing the defective material and additional testing if required

According to AIA B101, Standard Form of Agreement Between Owner and Architect, which of the following statements regarding construction observations is correct? (A) The architect visits the job site only at the beginning and end of construction (B) The architect issues an observation report to the owner after each visit (C) The architect is responsible for confirming that safety equipment is used (D) The architect creates a list of items that have been found incomplete

(B) The architect issues an observation report to the owner after each visit Construction evaluation services are not required by B101. The architect is not restricted from visiting the job site. The architect determines the frequency and time of visits to the job site depending on the complexity of the job. The observation allows the architect to determine work progress and monitor construction quality. Creating an observation report for the owner alerts the owner to deficiencies or quality issues that may be of concern. The owner reviews these concerns with the contractors

Which statement describes the architect's responsibility relative to the project schedule? (A) The architect approves the schedule prepared by the general contractor (B) The architect monitors the progress of the work against the project schedule prepared by the contractor (C) The architect enforces the schedule (D) The architect develops the schedule for the project

(B) The architect monitors the progress of the work against the project schedule prepared by the contractor The architect is not responsible for developing, approving, or enforcing the project schedule The architect's responsibility regarding the schedule is to periodically evaluate the progress of the work in comparison to the contractor's stated schedule, and to inform the owner if any deviations from the schedule are identified

A contractor submits the following verbiage on a bid form: "Seven hundred fifty-six thousand, four hundred fifty-two dollars and 0/100 dollars. $765,452.00" How should the architect interpret this bid? (A) The bid is $765,452 (B) The bid is $756,452 (C) The bid is invalid and must be discarded (D) The architect should call the bidder and ask what amount was intended

(B) The bid is $756,452 Bid amounts must be expressed on the bid form both in words and in numerical form. If there is a discrepancy between the two, the words prevail. The bid is valid and should be interpreted as $756,452

Which of the following is a characteristic of fast-track construction schedule? (A) The contract for the work is awarded after contracts review the completed construction documents and submit their bids (B) The design and construction phases of the project occur simultaneously (C) The architect is responsible for scheduling and overseeing the construction process (D) The decision to fast-track a project may be postponed until after bids are received

(B) The design and construction phases of the project occur simultaneously In a fast-tracked project, the design documents are developed as construction proceeds and are not final until the project is completed. The owner, contractor, construction manager, and architect collaborate so that portions of the design and construction phases can occur at the same time. A fast-tracked schedule can reduce the time of the project from 10%-30% as it eliminates the bid phase and allows materials with long lead times to be purchased before the building design is complete B103, Standard Form of Agreement Between Owner and Architect for a Complex Project, can be used for fast-tracked or accelerated projects

Which of the following statements is correct? (A) The architect may stop work if the contractor's performance is not satisfactory or is at a variance with the contract documents (B) The owner may carry on the work and deduct costs normally due to the contractor for any corrections required because of unsatisfactory work (C) The architect may stop the work if the architect reports safety problems on the site (D) The owner is not required to refuse to give the contractor proof that he or she can meet the financial obligations of the project

(B) The owner may carry on the work and deduct costs normally due to the contractor for any corrections required because of unsatisfactory work AIA 201, Sec 2.3 and Sec 2.4, authorizes the owner to stop work for deficiency in performance or safety violations or carry on the work with the owner's own forces to correct portions of the project where the contractor's performance is unsatisfactory and deduct the costs of the corrections from the contract sum. The architect is not given the authority to stop the work, but the architect should report situations warranting such action to the owner

Just before construction is to begin on an office building, an architect receives a request from the owner to add a loading dock to the building. The additional work will extend the construction time by three months and will cost an additional $500,000. Who must approve the change order(s)? (A) The owner must approve a change order issued by the architect (B) The owner must approve a change order issued by the architect and signed by the contractor (C) The owner and contractor must approve a change order issued by the architect (D) The contractor must approve change orders issued by the architect and owner

(B) The owner must approve a change order issued by the architect and signed by the contractor A change order addresses modifications to the project that affect price, time, or both. In this case, the change is requested by the owner. A proposal for the work would be solicited from the contractor, and when the owner and the contractor agree on a price, the architect would issue a change order. The change order must also be signed by the owner, contractor, and architect in order for the changes to be incorporated into the contract

During a site visit, the architect observes the installation of unapproved materials that were not originally specified. Before work can be stopped under the provisions of A201, General Conditions of the Contract for Construction, what must occur? (A) The contractor must provide documentation that the materials installed are equal to those specified (B) The owner must issue a written order to the contractor to stop the work (C) the architect must give written notice of intent to stop the work and wait seven days before shutting down the job (D) The architect must issue a stop work order

(B) The owner must issue a written order to the contractor to stop the work AIA A201, Article 3.4, states that the contractor may make substitutions only with the consent of the owner, after evaluation by the architect and with a change order. Only the owner has the right to stop the work, according to the provisions of AIA A201, Sec. 2.3. The owner may stop the work if the contractor fails to correct work that is not in accordance with the requirements of the contract documents or if the contractor repeatedly fails to carry out work in accordance with the contract documents

Which of the following is used to formally incorporate a substitution into the work prior to award of the contract? (A) change order (B) addendum (C) alternate listing (D) construction change directive

(B) addendum Change orders and construction change directives modify the original contract documents after the contract is awarded. An alternate listing is simply the list of alternates that the contractor must include in the bid. Addenda are used to make changes to the contract documents after they are issued for bidding but before the contract is awarded

In order to defer specific design decisions until pricing information is available and to provide flexibility to adjust project scope and cost after bids are received, the architect may include (A) allowances (B) alternates (C) unit prices (D) value engineering

(B) alternates Alternates are requests in the bidding documents for the contractor to supply a price for some variation to an element in the base bid. Alternates usually modify the quality of a material or the amount of work to be provided. Alternates are classified as additive ("add") or deductive ("deduct"), depending on the anticipated impact on the item's price

According to AIA A201, General Conditions of the Contract for Construction, the (A) architect must approve the contractor's proposed construction schedule before work can begin (B) architect must approve the contractor's proposed schedule of submittals (C) contractor is responsible for preparing record drawings (D) architect is responsible for reviewing all submittals provided by the contractor

(B) architect must approve the contractor's proposed schedule of submittals Although the contractor must submit a construction schedule for the architect's review, the architect need not approve it. The contractor bears the responsibility for coordinating and scheduling the work Record drawings may be required of the contractor by the specifications, but A201 does not include this requirement. (Record drawings are often prepared by the architect as an additional service to the owner.) The architect is responsible for reviewing only the submittals that are required by the contract documents according to AIA A201, Sec 3.12.4. If additional submittals are forwarded to the architect, the architect may return them to the contractor without action. According to A201, Sec 3.10.2, the architect must approve the contract's proposed schedule of submittals at the start of the project. This is to ensure that there will be a reasonable amount of time allowed for the architect to review the submittal, for the contractor to make corrections or revisions as necessary based on the architect's review, and for the architect to approve the submittal without delaying the progress of the work

The limits of excavation and the building footprint are located by a surveyor and marked on the sate using (A) grade stakes (B) batter boards (C) corner pins (D) a transit

(B) batter boards Grade stakes are used to indicate how much cut or fill is required at a specific location to reach finish grade. They are set by a survey crew and reset periodically during excavation to monitor progress a transit is a surveying tool used to determine the elevations of points on a site. It is typically mounted on a tripod for stability. Transits can be as sophisticated as a laser level with a sight that "shoots" elevations using a prism, or as simple as a handheld scope Batter boards are temporary supports erected to hold wires or strings that indicate the excavation line for a building site. The corners of the building or limits of excavation are marked at the intersection of the lines using a plumb bob. Batter boards are set back from the excavation line and are preferred to corner stakes or pins placed at the corners of a structure as they will not be disturbed during construction operations

Which of the following devices is used to depressurize a space to test for air infiltration? (A) nanometer (B) blower door (C) flow hood (D) duct blower

(B) blower door A nanometer measures differences in pressure between two spaces A flow hood is placed over a register or diffuser to measure output A duct blower is a fan attached directly to the ductwork to check for leaks A blower door is a fan that can be mounted in a door frame. It is used to pressurize or depressurize a building to measure air infiltration or leakage

A pressure test on plumbing supply piping required by the specifications reveals a leak in the system. According to AIA A201, the responsibility for fixing the leak and paying for the follow-up test rests with the (A) owner (B) contractor (C) plumbing subcontractor (D) owner and contractor jointly

(B) contractor A201, Sec. 13.5.3, requires the contractor to be responsible for all costs made necessary by failures, including costs of repeated tests

A pressure test on plumbing supply piping reveals a leak in the system. According to AIA A201, the responsibility for fixing the leak and paying for a follow-up test rests with the (A) owner (B) contractor (C) plumbing subcontractor (D) owner and contractor jointly

(B) contractor AIA A201, Sec 13.5.3, requires the contractor to be responsible for all costs made necessary by failures, including costs of repeated tests

Who is responsible for preparing a punch list (A) architect (B) contractor (C) owner (D) architect with assistance of project consultants

(B) contractor The contractor is required by AIA A201, Sec 9.8.2, to prepare a punch list when the contractor believes that the work is substantially complete. A punch list is a written summary of items that need to be repaired or corrected before final payment. Substantial completion is the point at which the project is complete enough for the owner to use it for its intended purpose. This is a critical point in the course of construction because it marks the date upon which the owner takes responsibility for insurance and utilities, and warranty periods for equipment begin

An architect suspects that blocking has been installed in the wrong location and asks that a portion of the work be uncovered. When the drywall is removed, the blocking is found to be properly installed. Who is responsible for paying for the removal and replacement of the portion of the wall? (A) architect (B) owner (C) contractor (D) architect and owner should split the cost

(B) owner Presumably, the architect requested that the drywall be removed because there was a reason to suspect that the construction was in error and the architect was protecting the owner's interests If the blocking had been in the wrong location, the contractor would be responsible for the cost of uncovering and repairing the work

An architect suspects that blocking has been installed in the wrong location and asks that portion of the work be uncovered. When the drywall is removed, the blocking is found to be in the correct location. Who is responsible for paying for the removal and replacement of the portion of the wall? (A) architect (B) owner (C) contractor (D) architect and owner should split the cost

(B) owner The owner is responsible for paying for uncovering and rebuilding the wall. Presumably, the architect requested that the drywall be removed because there was a reason to suspect that the construction was in error and the architect was protecting the owner's interests If the blocking had been in the wrong location, the contractor is responsible for the cost of uncovering and repairing the work

When an architect makes an impartial interpretation of the contract documents during construction administration, in accordance with the general conditions, in what capacity is he considered to be acting? (A) arbitratory (B) quasi-judicial (C) mediative (D) professional

(B) quasi-judicial An architect's interpretations of the contract documents are performed in a quasi-judicial capacity. AIA A201, Sec 4.2.12, states: " Interpretations and decisions of the Architect will be consistent with the intent of, and reasonably inferable from, the Contract Documents... When making such interpretations and decisions, the Architect will endeavor to secure faithful performance by both Owner and Contractor, will not show partiality to either, and will not be liable for results of interpretations or decisions rendered in good faith "

The architect has the authority to (A) stop work (B) reject work that does not comply with the construction documents (C) order changes to the work that deduct from the contract sum (D) accept nonconforming work

(B) reject work that does not comply with the construction documents AIA B101, Sec 3.6.2.2, gives the architect the authority to reject work that is not in compliance with the construction documents. To determine whether work is in compliance, the architect may require third-party testing or sampling. AIA A201, Sec 4.2.6, notifies the contractor of this authority

Bid documents for an elementary school indicate an area of exterior concrete paving with an indeterminate limit because the owner has not made a final decision concerning the amount of paved area required. In order to compare bid prices fairly for the paving, the architect may request on the bid form that the contractors include (A) individual quotes (B) unit prices (C) fixed costs (D) contingencies

(B) unit prices Unit prices are requested on bid forms when the full extent of the work is unknown, but the type, materials, and quality of work can be defined. A unit price is a set price quote, established by a contractor during bidding, for a specified amount of the work. The unit price is based on cost per unit of measurement, such as square foot, or linear foot, or on individual units, such as a light fixture

Which of the following sections of the ADA Accessibility Guidelines apply primarily to the design and construction of public facilities? (Choose the two that apply.) (A) Title I (B) Title II (C) Title III (D) Title IV (E) Title V (F) Title VI

(B), (C) ADA Accessibility Guidelines is a federal law passed in 1990 that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. The law is divided into five sections Title I - Employment Title II - Public Services, including public transportation and state and local government activities and facilities Title III - Public Accommodations, including all public facilities such as restaurants, retail stores, hotels, commercial facilities, privately owned transportation systems, and some places that offer examinations or courses (private clubs and places of worship are excluded) Title IV - Telecommunications Title V - Miscellaneous Title II and Title III require that all new construction and modifications to existing buildings be accessible to people with disabilities. Public entities may choose to use either the Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards (UFAS) or the ADA/ABA Guidelines to achieve this goal

The contractor is solely responsible for which of the following? (Choose the two that apply.) (A) field reports to the owner (B) field tests (C) scaffolding (D) reviewing claims of subcontractors (E) reviewing shop drawings (F) code review of contract documents

(B), (C) Field reports are the responsibility of the architect Scaffolding is part of the means of construction, which is the contractor's responsibility AIA 201 makes the contractor responsible for arranging and coordinating field tests If a subcontractor makes a claim to the contractor, the contractor in turn makes a claim to the owner that is reviewed by the architect Both the contractor and the architect are responsible for reviewing shop drawings, although only the contractor is responsible for the accuracy of the shop drawings The contractor is not responsible for code review of contract documents

According to AIA A201, General Conditions of the Contract for Construction, which of the following methods may be used to make changes in the work once construction has started? (Choose the three that apply.) (A) work modification form (B) order for minor change in the work (C) change order (D) construction change directive (E) addendum (F) verbal directive

(B), (C), (D) A work modification form or verbal instructions given by the architect are not acceptable ways to change the scope of the work. An addendum is used to make changes to the contract documents during the bidding period According to AIA 201, Article 7, changes in the work can be made by change order, construction change directive, or order for a minor change in the work without invalidating the contract, subject to limitations in the article and elsewhere in teh contract documents

Which of the following statements about submittals are correct? (Choose the three that apply.) (A) The architect must review submittals before the contractor approves them (B) The contractor is ultimately responsible for the accuracy of dimensions and quantities (C) Submittals are not considered part of the contract documents (D) The contractor can reject submittals and request resubmittal by their subcontractors (E) The architect can make a change to the scope of work through the review notes on the submittal (F) Substitutions may be presented to the architect for consideration at any time during the construction phase

(B), (C), (D) The submittals process allows the architect to verify that the materials the contractor will provide comply with the requirements outlined in the contract documents. The contractor must review submittals prior to giving them to the architect. If the contractor wishes to make a substitution, the contractor must follow the guidelines given in Division 1 of the Specifications. Substitutions are often not accepted after the bid period, or the specifications may require substitutions to be submitted and approved before a specified date. When a substitution is requested, the architect should first verify that the specifications allow this at the current stage of the project. The architect may not add to the scope of work by noting the additional tasks on the submittal. If additional work is necessary, this change should be made through a change order or a construction change directive. The contractor is responsible for dimensions and quantities of materials. The contractor may require subcontractors to prepare submittal information relative to their work; in this case, if the contractor determines that the submittal data is insufficient or incorrect, the contractor may reject it and require the subcontractor to correct it before it is passed on to the architect. The submittals received from the contractor are not considered a part of the contract documents

The architect's submittal review includes which of the following? (Choose the four that apply.) (A) verification or correction of dimensions (B) notation of action taken (C) date of receipt of the submittal (D) determination if the submittal should be reviewed by consultants (E) verification that the contractor should be reviewed by consultants (F) notes that require the contractor to provide something other than that described in the specifications

(B), (C), (D), (E) The architect's submittal review may not change the scope of the work as defined in the contract documents, and it does not include verification or correction of dimensions. If changes to the scope are necessary, they should be made through change order or construction change directive. The contractor is responsible for accuracy and verification of all dimensions The architect's submittal review would include notation of action taken, tracking of the date of receipt and distribution of the submittal, determination if the submittal should be reviewed by a consultant, and if so, coordination of this review and verification that the contractor reviewed the submittal before submitting it to the architect

For which of the following reasons should an architect withhold all or part of a certificate for payment? (Choose the four that apply.) (A) There are mathematical errors on the contractor's application for payment (B) The architect has been notified by the owner that the plumbing subcontractor's attorney has informed him of the subcontractor's intent to place a lien on the project (C) The contractor has failed to correct a portion of the work that the architect has rejected (D) One month remains in the construction period on a project with $5000 liquidation damages per day, and the architect suspects that work will not be completed by the deadline; not enough unpaid funds remain to cover the liquidation damages for the expected delay (E) The contractor withheld the required retainage (F) The window supplier has notified the architect that it has not been paid for materials delivered to the contractor's storage facility

(B), (C), (D), (F) A201, Sec 9.5 addresses reasons that an architect may withhold a certificate for payment. The reasons include defective work not remedied, claims or probable claims against the project, failure of the contractor to pay subcontractors, damage to the owner or another contractor, evidence that the work will not be completed within the contract time, and repeated failure to carry out the work in accordance with the contract documents. The purpose of the architect's certification is to endeavor to protect the owner's interests in the project by not releasing payments until the contractor has properly completed the work.

When reviewing applications for payment, which of the following must the architect do? (Choose the four that apply.) (A) Verify that adequate safety precautions are being observed by the contractor (B) Determine if the completed work will be in accordance with the contract documents (C) Become generally familiar with the progress and quality of the work (D) Keep the owner informed about the progress of the work (E) Check if the quantities of the installed work are as required by the contract documents (F) Endeavor to guard the owner against defects in the work

(B), (C), (D), (F) The architect is not responsible for safety at the site; for the means, methods, or techniques of construction; or for verifying quantities of materials. AIA B101 and A201 state the reasons the architect visits the site and their responsibilities regarding application for payment. The architect is responsible for determining whether work completed complies with the requirements of the contract documents. The architect should be familiar with the progress of the work and communicate this to the owner. The goal of the architect's involvement and review should be to endeavor to guard the owner against defects in the work

Which of the following members of the building team participate in the building commissioning process? (Choose the four that apply.) (A) civil engineer (B) electrical engineer (C) elevator engineer (D) interior designer (E) owner (F) mechanical engineer

(B), (C), (E), (F) The civil engineer and the interior designer typically would not participate in the building commissioning process because they do not have direct involvement in the design or operation of the building systems

A 6000ft2 tenant space has been designed in an existing office building. The owner and contractor have signed a lump sum contract based on AIA A101 and A201. The scope of the project requires the contractor to remove the existing partitions and finishes as well as provide and install new construction, finishes, heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) modifications, lighting and electrical work, and phone and data service. The contract also requires the contractor to provide and install new cubicles and connect them to power and data service While the construction is taking place, the owner is approached by an independent contract furniture dealer who convinces the owner that the dealer can provide reconditioned cubicles at a much lower cost than the new products originally specified; however, the cubicle layout will need to be changed because the reconditioned modular furniture parts are not the same sizes as the products originally specified. The owner approaches the architect and explains that they want to use the reconditioned cubicles to save money. Which of the following statements are correct? (Choose the three that apply.) (A) If the owner deletes the specified cubicles from the original construction contract and signs a separate contract with the furniture dealer to provide and install the furniture, the contractor will be responsible for the coordination of the furniture dealer's work (B) Removing the specified cubicles from the original construction contract and replacing them with the reconditioned cubicles is accomplished through a change order (C) The potential material cost savings associated with the reconditioned furniture may be negated by the additional design costs necessary to revise the modular furniture layout and redesign the electrical and data connection points (D) The architect is obligated to provide additional design services at no cost when a change is made to save the owner money (E) When the construction contract and the furniture contracts are separate, the architect is responsible for preparing the installation schedule and coordinating the work (F) The architect should advise the owner to consider all associated costs of this change before proceeding with a change order

(B), (C), (F)

For a project using AIA A201, General Conditions of the Contract for Construction, claims concerning which of the following would be referred to the initial decision maker? (Choose the three that apply.) (A) the discovery of hazardous materials on the project site (B) a request for additional compensation due to a discrepancy in the contract documents (C) a request for additional time due to poor weather conditions (D) an emergency that endangers workers on the jobsite (E) a loss covered by insurance (F) the termination of the contract for cause

(B), (C), (F) 2007 AIA A201 introduced the role of the IDM. The IDM is a third party, named in the agreement, who will serve as the first reviewer in the event of a project dispute. The agreement requires that the opinion of the IDM be solicited before proceeding with mediation or arbitration. If a third-party IDM is not named in the agreement, then by default the architect will fulfill the responsibilities of this role There are a few exceptional circumstances which do not require a decision by the IDM: + Hazardous materials + Emergencies + Losses covered by insurance

A specification calls for a window assembly with glazing that meets the following performance criteria + Transmittance + Reflectance + NFRC U-Factor + Shading Coefficient (SC) + Relative Heat Gain + Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) + Light to Solar Gain (LSG) Which performance criteria should be evaluated to determine whether or not the submitted glazing product meets International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) requirements for fenestration? (Choose the two that apply.) (A) total solar energy transmittance (B) NFRC U-factor (C) relative heat gain (D) solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) (E) visible light transmittance (F) shading coefficient (SC)

(B), (D) The IECC establishes performance and area requirements for window and door assemblies. The allowable properties are dependent upon the geographic location of the building (climate zones 1-7 in the United States), the orientation of the assembly (vertical windows and doors or horizontal skylights), and whether the element is fixed or operable. The two criteria cited in the IECC prescriptive fenestration requirements are U-factor and SHGC. U-factor is the coefficient of heat transmittance. The lower the U-value is, the better the insulating performance of the glazing. SHGC is a measurement of how much radiation is admitted through a window. A window assembly with a high SHGC transmits more solar heat than an assembly with a low SHGC The National Fenestration Rating Council is a third-party testing organization that verifies manufacturers' claims and provides a label stating the window assembly's U-factor and SHGC. The label may also include information on the assembly's performance in visible transmittance and air leakage tests

At substantial completion the Architect includes a list of Owner-accepted non-conforming work. What might be included in this non-conforming work? Check the two that apply (A) Design changes that differ from the Construction Documents that the Architect approves but the Owner does not (B) Required means and methods that alter the design but still render it acceptable (C) Non-code compliant design features that the Owner has requested or accepted (D) Design changes that differ from the Construction Documents that the Architect does not approve but the Owner does

(B), (D) Wrong: + If the Architect accepts something but the Owner does not, it wouldn't be included in an Owner-accepted list + Code compliance is paramount to any architecture project and should not be waived even at the request of the Owner

During the construction of a church, the building committee decides to replace the porcelain tile floor specified for the chapel with a poured terrazzo flooring material. The architect requests a proposal from the contractor for the change. The contractor states that the contractor may add 20% for overhead and profit and an additional 5% for coordination on change orders. The contractor's base price for labor and materials for the change is $22,250. What is the approximate total value of the change order? (A) $26,700 (B) $27,800 (C) $28,000 (D) $28,400

(C) $28,000 ($22,250 * 1.20) * 1.05 = $28,000 The owner should also receive proper credit for the deletion of porcelain tile, including labor, materials, and overhead and profit. This is not part of the calculation in this problem, however.

At what temperature do workers need to take steps to protect concrete when cold weather is predicted? (A) 0 F (B) 32 F (C) 40 F (D) 45 F

(C) 40 F A concrete pour can proceed at temperatures below 40 F. However, the water and sand must be heated to ensure that non of the constituents have frozen, and the concrete must be heated for at least seven days after placement, during the early curing stages Other temperature-sensitive materials, such as sealants, should not be applied when the temperature is below 40 F

A small private college is planning to renovate the locker rooms in the campus fitness center. The work must take place during a three-week semester break. The bids have been received and a construction contract has been awarded. A moth before the end of the fall semester, the existing water heater fails and leaves the showers without hot water. The contractor who is on-board for the renovation project is finishing another project with a tight deadline and does not have staff available to address the problem at the fitness center. The college must repair the water heater immediately, so they hire an independent mechanical contractor to replace the unit with the water heater that was specified for the new project. How should this change to the scope of work of the renovation project be addressed? (A) Prepare an addendum deleting the water heater replacement from the scope of the renovation contractor's work (B) Charge the renovation contractor for the water heater replacement materials and labor because they were unavailable to perform the repair (C) Adjust the renovation contractor's contract scope and amount by change order (D) Revise the documents and rebid the project

(C) Adjust the renovation contractor's contract scope and amount by change order

An architect has been hired by a design-build firm under the provisions of AIA B143, Standard Form of Agreement between Design-Builder and Architect. In AIA B143, Article 3, which defines the architect's services, only two tasks have been selected: to complete the design documents and to complete the construction documents. The design-build firm has contracted with the owner to complete the work based on the cost of the work plus a fee, with a guaranteed maximum price. According to the terms of this agreement, what is the architect's obligation to estimate and adjust overall project costs? (A) Provide an estimate for the architect's portion of the work, which includes the building design only (B) Adjust the project size, quality, or budget if the preliminary cost estimate exceeds the budget (C) Develop the design and construction documents with cost input from the design-builder (D) Make reasonable adjustments in the scope of the project to adjust the cost of the work

(C) Develop the design and construction documents with cost input from the design-builder In B143, Sec. 3.2, the architect and design-builder can agree to have the architect provide as few or as many services as are indicated. If evaluation and estimating services are not selected, the architect is only obligated to base the design on the design-build documents, other criteria provided by the design-builder, the proposed project schedule, and the budget for the architect's portion of the work. If the design-builder's estimate exceeds the budget for the architect's portion of the work, the architect may request additional compensation for the revisions to the documents required to bring the project within the budget

A museum lobby renovation includes the fabrication and installation of a custom grade reception desk. The drawings call for vertical faces of the desk to be constructed of premium grade maple and cherry and for the countertops to be plastic laminate. The contractor submits shop drawings for the desk showing the countertops constructed as specified, but the plastic laminate color number and manufacturer listed to not match the color and brand noted in the specifications, and no samples have been provided. How should the architect respond to this shop drawing submittal? (A) Mark the submittal "approved" and write in the color of plastic laminate that should be provided (B) Call the contractor, ask which plastic laminate product was intended, write in the response, and mark the submittal "approved as noted" (C) Mark the submittal "revise and resubmit" and direct the contractor to provide one of the specified laminate products for the countertops (D) Mark the submittal "rejected" and return it to the contractor

(C) Mark the submittal "revise and resubmit" and direct the contractor to provide one of the specified laminate products for the countertops Because each plastic laminate manufacturer offers a different selection of colors and patterns and because there often is no "equal" provided by another manufacturer, it is important that the contractor submit the specified product. The specified product should be provided unless the contractor has received approval to substitute a different product. The correct response is to mark the submittal "revise and resubmit" and request that the contractor provide additional information about the products that will be incorporated into the desk

During a construction phase site visit, the architect notices that a finish subcontractor has not prepared the substrate for the vinyl tile in accordance with the standard referenced in the specifications. What should the architects first response be? (A) Inform the owner in writing of the situation (B) Withhold the appropriate amount on the contractor's application for payment (C) Notify the contractor the work is not in conformance with the contract documents (D) Notify the subcontractor that their work is not being properly installed

(C) Notify the contractor the work is not in conformance with the contract documents According to AIA A201, the architect's communications by and with subcontractors and materials suppliers shall be through the contractor. The architect should inform the contractor of the improper installation, and the contractor is responsible for coordinating the repair with the subcontractor

Which of the following statements about bidding is correct? (A) Bidding procedures vary widely from project to project (B) Bidding is not required for federally funded projects (C) Open bidding may allow an inexperienced contractor to be awarded a job if the firm submits the lowest price (D) Competitive bidding takes less time than negotiation and can result in a lower construction cost

(C) Open bidding may allow an inexperienced contractor to be awarded a job if the firm submits the lowest price Bidding procedures are fairly well established in the construction industry, but each project has unique legal, insurance, and administrative requirements that should be shared with all bidders

A cabinetry subcontractor drops off a box of countertop material and hardware samples at an architect's office with a transmittal requesting selections by the end of the week. What should the architect do with the materials? (A) Review the options and call the subcontractor with the selections (B) Review the options, make selections, and inform the contractor in writing of the choices (C) Send the samples back to the subcontractor (D) Send the samples to the contractor

(C) Send the samples back to the subcontractor The architect should return the samples to the subcontractor without reviewing them, The subcontractor should first submit them to the contractor for review for compliance with the construction documents, in accordance with AIA A201, Sec 3.12.5 and Sec 3.12.6. The contractor may then submit them to the architect for review and selections

An Architect is ready to issue a certificate of substantial completion but the project has not yet received a Certificate of Occupancy (CofO) from the AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction). What is true about this situation? (A) The Architect must wait for the CofO before issuing the certificate of substantial completion (B) The Architect can issue the certificate of substantial completion after a verbal approval from the building inspector (C) The Architect can issue the certificate of substantial completion without a CofO (D) The Architect can issue the certificate of substantial completion after a verbal approval from the AHJ

(C) The Architect can issue the certificate of substantial completion without a CofO The standard AIA documents do not require a Certificate of Occupancy before the issuance of a Certificate of Substantial Completion. Whenever the Architect certifies that a project is substantially complete they can issue the certificate of substantial completion

An architect completes the drawings for a window replacement project at a private elementary school. The scope of the work includes replacement of all the operable windows in the classrooms. After the project is awarded and a contractor is signed to do the job, the school's facilities department determines that additional money is available to replace the aluminum storefront at the main entrance to the school. The existing entrance does not comply with current accessibility requirements or security guidelines and cannot be replaced in kind. The school board requests that this work be included in the construction contract. Which one of the following statements is true? (A) The additional work for the aluminum storefront will be incorporated into the contractor's contract through an addendum (B) The architect must provide, at no additional cost to the owner, the information necessary for the contractor to prepare a proposal (C) The additional work for the aluminum storefront will be incorporated into the construction contract through a change order (D) The architectural fees for additional design and coordination will be incorporated into the construction change order and paid by the contractor

(C) The additional work for the aluminum storefront will be incorporated into the construction contract through a change order

Which of these statements regarding building officials is correct? (A) If a building should collapse, the building official could be held personally liable for failing to properly inspect the structure whether or not the official acted in good faith (B) A building official must obtain a court order to enter a building if the official believes that the building is not in compliance with the code or is unsafe (C) The interpretation of the building official having jurisdiction becomes the final decision (D) A user may occupy a property before the building official has completed a final inspection and issued a certificate of occupancy

(C) The interpretation of the building official having jurisdiction becomes the final decision IBC Sec 104 outlines the duties and powers of the building official. This person is responsible for interpreting the code and inspecting projects for compliance with its policies and procedures. The final decision on matters of interpretation of code requirements is the building official's.

What is 'directed acceleration' of a construction project? (A) When the Contractor decides to speed up construction due to impending poor weather conditions (B) When the Contractor decides to speed up construction on his or her own accord (C) When the Contractor is requested to speed up construction by the Owner (D) When the Architect requests the Contractor to speed up construction

(C) When the Contractor is requested to speed up construction by the Owner

During construction, the architect is obligated to visit the site to keep the client informed about the progress and quality of the work. According to the basic provisions of AIA B101, Standard Form of Agreement Between Owner and Architect, these visits must occur (A) every week (B) every two weeks (C) as appropriate to the stage of the contractor's operations (D) only if they have been written in the agreement as additional services

(C) as appropriate to the stage of the contractor's operations Site visits are part of the basic services of contract administration, but no specific time interval for them is given in the contract. AIA B101 states that the architect shall visit the site at intervals appropriate to the stage of the contractor's operations or as agreed by the owner and architect

During construction, the architect is obligated to visit the site to keep the client informed about the progress and quality of the work. According to the basic provisions of AIA Document B101, these visits must occur (A) every week (B) every two weeks (C) as appropriate to the stage of the contractor's operations (D) only if they have been written into the agreement as additional services

(C) as appropriate to the stage of the contractor's operations Site visits are part of the basic services of contract administration, but no specific time interval for them is given in the contract. AIA Document B101 states that the architect shall visit the site at intervals appropriate to the stage of the contractor's operations or as agreed by the owner and architect

When the project is 90% complete, the code inspector requires installation of six exit signs in addition to those shown on the approved plans. Which of the following instruments should the architect use to make this change? (A) order for manor change (B) addendum (C) change order (D) construction change directive

(C) change order Because the additional exit signs would necessitate an increase in construction cost and possibly an adjustment to the contract time, an order for minor change would not be appropriate An addendum can only be used before the contract is signed It is possible the owner and contractor might disagree with the cost of additional exit signs and a constructive change directive would be used initially, but it is more likely that everyone would realize the need for the extra signs and agree on a price Ultimately a change order would be issued to adjust the contract sum

In what order should the steps in the process of concrete construction occur? (A) construct the formwork, place and tie the reinforcing steel, apply a release agent to the forms, perform slump testing, pour and vibrate the concrete (B) construct the formwork, apply a release agent to the forms, place and ties the reinforcing steel, pour and vibrate the concrete, perform slump testing (C) construct the formwork, apply a release agent to the forms, place and tie the reinforcing steel, perform slump testing, pour and vibrate the concrete (D) perform slump testing, construct the formwork, apply a release agent to the forms, place and ties the reinforcing steel, pour and vibrate the concrete

(C) construct the formwork, apply a release agent to the forms, place and tie the reinforcing steel, perform slump testing, pour and vibrate the concrete

The specifications for a project require moisture tests to be performed on all concrete slabs on which resilient flooring will be installed. According to the requirements of AIA A201, General Conditions of the Contract for Construction, which party is responsible for the cost of performing these tests? (A) architect (B) owner (C) contractor (D) flooring subcontractor

(C) contractor AIA A201, Sec 13.5, states that tests, inspections, and approvals of portions of the work required by the contract documents or by laws, ordinances, rules, regulations, or orders of public authorities shall be paid for by the contractor. The contractor must also make arrangements for the tests and notify the architect of when they will be conducted If testing becomes required after receipt of bids or after contract negotiations and is not part of the original contract documents, then the owner becomes responsible for paying for the testing

In addition to making a base bid for a project as specified, each contractor is asked to state how much less his or her bid will be if eight large twin windows shown in the plans and elevations are replaced with smaller casement windows. This is an example of the use of (A) add alternates (B) allowances (C) deduct alternates (D) reduction

(C) deduct alternates A request that the contractor supply, in addition to a base bid on the project as specified, a price for some variation, such as a change in materials or in some component of construction, is called an alternate. When the alternate will lead to a reduction in the bid, it is a deduct alternate

During a hotel construction project in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, a hurricane slams into the coast, leveling a building that was framed one week prior. Which type of clause permits the contractor to request a change to the contract time or contract sum due to the damage? (A) indemnification (B) joinder (C) force majeure (D) named peril

(C) force majeure Force majeure means "greater force" and is used to describe situations where damages or delays are caused by forces beyond the control of either party to a contract.

According to AIA A701, Instructions to Bidders, bids must be submitted on (A) standard AIA bid forms (B) the contractor's standard bid form (C) forms provided with the bidding documents (D) forms provided on the owner's website

(C) forms provided with the bidding documents AIA A701 states that bids shall be submitted on the forms included with the bidding documents. These may be tailored to the project by including a listing of alternates and unit prices, and by asking for acknowledgement of any addenda issued during the bid phase

One nondestructive test used to measure the strength of concrete after it has hardened in its final form is the (A) core cylinder test (B) cylinder test (C) impact hammer test (D) Kelly ball test

(C) impact hammer test The impact hammer test involves snapping a spring-loaded plunger against a concrete surface and measuring the amount of rebound. The amount of rebound gives an approximate reading of concrete strength A cylinder test requires that a sample be taken at the time concrete has poured, before it has hardened. A core cylinder test can give the strength of hardened concrete, but the test is destructive to the concrete, and the sample needs to be tested in a laboratory. Both the core cylinder test and the Kelly ball test require the use of fresh concrete

Procedures a bidder must follow to propose a substitution will be found in the (A) advertisement to bid (B) "front-end" of the specifications (Division 01) (C) instructions to bidders (D) general conditions

(C) instructions to bidders The procedure a contractor must follow to proposes a substitution during bidding is defined in the instructions to bidders. The advertisement to bid simply states that bidding is being accepted for a particular project and gives information about how to view the project documents and submit a bid After the contract is awarded, if the contractor wishes to propose a substitution, he or she must consult the instructions in the general requirements of the specifications. (These instructions, in Division 01, are sometimes referred to as front-end documents.)

Which of the following would be specified in the construction documents? (A) height of a bottom-dump bucket above the forms as the concrete is being placed (B) type of vibration being used to consolidate the concrete after it has been poured (C) location of the rebar in relation to the forms (D) method of support for the forms

(C) location of the rebar in relation to the forms The contractor is responsible for construction means and methods, which would include construction and support of the formwork, the type of equipment used during placement of the concrete, and the practices employed during placement of the concrete. The size, configuration, and location of the reinforcing bars would be detailed in the construction documents

Which of the following variables has the greatest impact on a bid? (A) contractor's profit margin (B) influences of the construction marketplace (C) number of prices received from subcontractors (D) subcontract bids

(C) number of prices received from subcontractors Labor and materials, by far, have the biggest influence on the cost of a job because they represent about 80% of the cost. Labor and materials costs influence the amount of subcontractors' bids. Profit tends to be based on a percentage of the total project construction cost, and market influences do not have as great an effect on overall costs as the raw costs of the labor and materials required to construct the project

A developer from New York owns a large piece of property along the James River in Virginia and plans to construct a retirement community and golf course. This is an area where there are many pockets of unstable shrink/swell soil, so the architect advises the owner to hire a geotechnical engineer to conduct testing and prepare a soils report for the property. The developer bids construction of the clubhouse and provides a copy of the soils report to each of the bidders along with the contract documents. The low bidder and the developer reach and agreement based upon AIA A201, General Conditions of the Contract for Construction. Three weeks into the site excavation, the contractor finds areas of shrink/swell soil in locations not indicated in the soils report. The cost of additional excavation and/or foundation design and reinforcement is the responsibility of the (A) contractor (B) geotechnical engineer (C) owner (D) architect

(C) owner AIA A201, Sec 3.7.4, addresses concealed or unknown conditions on the site, including subsurface characteristics. The contractor's responsibility in this situation is to inform the architect and owner about the conditions observed within 21 days of discovery. The architect will investigate the conditions and report their findings to the owner. The owner will decide how to proceed. If adjustment to the contract sum or contract time is necessary because of the discovery, the scope of work may be adjusted through a change order addressing the unforeseen conditions

The final responsibility for awarding a construction contract rests with the (A) architect (B) construction manager (C) owner (D) owner's legal counsel

(C) owner The owner is ultimately responsible for deciding which contractor will be hired for a project. The architect is generally involved in the decision-making process, but only assists and gives advice to the owner

Which of the following may be used to encourage the contractor to finish the job or to satisfy mechanic's lien claims by subcontractors? (A) surety bond (B) liquidation damages (C) retainage (D) arbitration

(C) retainage A surety bond involves a third party (the surety) who ensures completion of the project if the contractor fails to meet his or her obligations. Liquidations damages are an amount specified in advance that the contractor must pay to the owner if the project is not completed on time Arbitration is a method of resolving disputes between parties to a contract Retainage, or an amount of money withheld from each pay application, gives the owner leverage to require the contractor to finish the job and provides a reserve in case liens must be satisfied

Which of the following is the contractor solely responsible for? (A) field reports to the owner (B) selection of subcontractors (C) scaffolding (D) reviewing claims of subcontractors

(C) scaffolding Scaffolding is part of the means of construction, which is the contractor's responsibility Field reports are the responsibility of the architect Selection of subcontractors is subject to the approval of both the architect and the owner If a subcontractor makes a claim to the contractor, the contractor in turn makes a claim to the owner that is reviewed by the architect

An architect's signature on a certificate for payment indicates that the architect has (A) inspected and accepted the work performed (B) reviewed the invoices submitted to the contractor by subcontractors (C) verified that the contractor is entitled to payment for work performed to date (D) received payment for work performed to date

(C) verified that the contractor is entitled to payment for work performed to date The architect is responsible for reviewing and certifying certificates for payment as defined in Sec 9.4 of A201. On receiving an application for payment from the contractor, the architect has seven days to (1) review the work performed and (2) determine whether the level of quality of the work matches that defined by the contract documents. If both attributes are present, the architect will issue a certificate for payment to the owner for the amount requested by the contractor. If either is not present, the architect has the option of rejecting the application or certifying a lesser amount

Contractor's overhead and profit typically account for what percentage of the construction cost? (A) 5-15% (B) 10-20% (C) 15-20% (D) 15-40%

(D) 15-40% Contractor's overhead and profit typically constitute 15-40% of the construction cost

Which of these statements about mechanic's liens is true? (A) A mechanic's lien gives a contractor, subcontractor, or supplier clear title to an owner's property (B) Liens are permitted on publicly owned projects (C) A lien applies to all of the owner's assets (D) A contractor must provide evidence that a project is free of liens before receiving payment

(D) A contractor must provide evidence that a project is free of liens before receiving payment A mechanic's lien gives a contractor, subcontractor, or material suppler the right to place a claim against an owner's property if proper payment for materials or services has not been provided. A lien encumbers the title to a property and can force an owner to sell it to pay the company providing materials or services. The claim is relevant only to the project, not the owner's other assets. Liens are not permitted on publicly owned project; bonds are used instead. A contractor is required to submit evidence that the work is free of liens before receiving payments per A201, Sec 9.3.3 and Sec 9.10.2. The contractor may also be required to submit G706, Contractor's Affidavit of Payment of Debts and Claims, and/or G706A, Contractor's Affidavit of Release of Liens, to ensure that the owner will have clear title to the property upon final payment

Based on the work observed during a site visit, the architect believes that construction progress is falling behind schedule. The owner-contractor agreement includes AIA A201, General Conditions of the Contract for Construction. Which of the following should the architect do first? (A) Immediately notify the owner of the problem in writing (B) Detail which portions of the project are lagging in the next field report (C) Determine with the contractor if there is a problem, and suggest ways to correct it (D) Compare the current status of construction with the contractor's schedule

(D) Compare the current status of construction with the contractor's schedule According to A201, the contractor must provide a project schedule to the owner and architect prior to the start of construction. This schedule is for information only and neither the owner nor the architect approve this schedule. The contractor is obligated to perform the work in general accordance to the schedule, but retains all responsibility for sequencing the work. If minor changes to the schedule need to be made to allow the work to proceed, the contractor has the ability to make these modifications. A conversation with the contractor can allow the architect to determine whether or not there is a serious problem. The architect should note the field observations and any discussion about the schedule with the contractor in a field report, which will be distributed to both the contractor and owner and serve as documentation of the conditions at the site. However, the architect should first compare the current status of the project with the contractor's original schedule to determine whether or not the work is behind schedule or not.

What is the Architect's only documented representation that a project has been completed? (A) Final change order (B) Certificate of final completion (C) Certificate of occupancy (D) Final certificate for payment

(D) Final certificate for payment The final certificate for payment is the Architect's only documented representation that a project has been completed

Which of these statements about the architect's review of an application for payment is true? (A) The architect's signature on the application for payment indicates that the architect has inspected and approved the work for which the contractor is requesting payment (B) The architect's certification of an application for payment is the same as providing a warranty to the owner that the work has been completed in accordance with the requirements of the construction documents (C) The architect is required to review the progress of the work summarized on the application for payment within two weeks of receipt from the contractor (D) If the architect refuses to certify the amounts listed on an application for payment and does not provide an explanation of the refusal or evidence that the quantities are inaccurate, the contractor can stop work

(D) If the architect refuses to certify the amounts listed on an application for payment and does not provide an explanation of the refusal or evidence that the quantities are inaccurate, the contractor can stop work The architect's signature on the certificate is not a warranty and does not represent that the architect has inspected the work If the contractor is not provided appropriate and timely payment, the contractor may stop the work in accordance with the provisions in AIA A201, Sec 9.7

Which of the following is used to determine the workability of concrete? (A) Steiner tunnel test (B) Cylinder test (C) electrical impedance test (D) Kelly ball test

(D) Kelly ball test The Steiner tunnel test is not a concrete test. It is used to determine the surface burning characteristics of interior finish materials The cylinder test involves breaking a cylinder formed of concrete from a specific pour in order to test the concrete's compressive strength at prescribed intervals (7, 14, 21, 28 days) during the curing process Electrical impedance test is used to assess the moisture content conducted through the material. Slabs with a greater moisture content conduct more electricity The Kelly ball test measure the workability of the uncured concrete. A metal ball is dropped into freshly poured concrete, and the depression formed by the ball is measured and compared to the slump test results

During a site visit, the architect notices what appears to be an undersized variable air volume box being installed. What should the architect do? (A) Tell the mechanical engineer to look at the situation during the next site visit by the engineer. Not the observation on a field report (B) Find the contractor and stop work on the installation until the size of the unit can be verified by the mechanical engineer and compared to the contract documents (C) Notify the owner in writing that the work is not proceeding according to the contract documents, and advise him to stop the work until the architect can arrange a meeting with the mechanical engineer to resolve the situation (D) Notify the contractor that the equipment may be undersized, and have the contractor check on it. Concurrently, ask the mechanical engineer to verify the size of the unit against the specifications and report it to the architect

(D) Notify the contractor that the equipment may be undersized, and have the contractor check on it. Concurrently, ask the mechanical engineer to verify the size of the unit against the specifications and report it to the architect The architect has a duty to cooperate with the contractor and should mention the potential problem during the site visit. The contractor then has the opportunity to check on the equipment while the architect is following up with the mechanical engineer. The observation should be noted on the architect's field report to keep the client informed of the progress of the work. If, in fact, the equipment is being installed is incorrect, corrective action may be taken. When the contractor is notified immediately, they can decide whether or not to suspend work on the installation of the equipment until the situation is resolved

A contractor submits a list of proposed subcontractors to the owner and architect for construction of a small office building. The architect reviews it and notes that the proposed plumbing subcontractor is a company with a history of poor workmanship; one of the architect's clients on a previous project spent thousands of dollars to correct the plumber's errors. The architect expresses his concerns to the owner, who agrees that he prefers not to have this subcontractor as part of the project. If the owner-contractor agreement references AIA A201, what can the owner and architect do? (A) Do nothing, as the selection of subcontractors is entirely within the purview of the general contractor and the list of subcontractors is submitted to the architect and owner for information only (B) Submit to the contractor the name and contact information for a plumbing subcontractor the owner prefers to use for the project and require the contractor to hire that firm (C) require the general contractor to use a different plumbing subcontractor with no adjustment to the contract sum (D) Require the general contractor to use a different plumbing subcontractor, with the understanding that the contract sum or contract time may be adjusted to reflect the new subcontractor's proposed price and/or schedule

(D) Require the general contractor to use a different plumbing subcontractor, with the understanding that the contract sum or contract time may be adjusted to reflect the new subcontractor's proposed price and/or schedule A201, Sec 5.2, address subcontractors. The contractor is requires to submit a list of proposed subcontractors to the architect and owner for review. If the architect and/or owner have objections to any of the proposed subcontractors, they must notify the contractor in writing within 14 days. The contractor is responsible for proposing an alternate subcontractor. Assuming that the proposed subcontractor was "reasonably capable" of performing the work, the contractor will be entitled to an adjustment of the contract sum or time to reflect the new subcontractor's price or schedule, which will be documented in a change order. After the list of subcontractors has been approved, the contractor may not make changes unless he obtains the permission of the owner and architect

A Design-builder and Contractor and an Architect are working together during a design-build project where the Architect is responsible for only a part of the work. Which of the following statements about the participants' roles is true? (A) The Design-builder administers the entire project (B) The Design-builder reviews the requests for information submitted by the Architect (C) Only the Design-builder has the authority to reject work that is unsatisfactory (D) The Architect administers the project, coordinating between the Design-builder and the Contractor (E) The Architect must make site visits and review all parts of the construction

(D) The Architect administers the project, coordinating between the Design-builder and the Contractor The Architect administers the project, coordinating between the Design-builder and the Contractor is the true statement regarding the design-build project

After visiting the project site to review an application for payment, the architect decides to withhold the certificate for payment under the provisions of AIA A201. Which of the following statements about this situation is true? (A) The architect is required to withhold the entire amount (B) The architect must notify the owner, who then notifies the contractor (C) The architect and contractor must agree on a revised amount before the revised application can be approved for payment (D) The architect can nullify a previous certificate to protect the owner

(D) The architect can nullify a previous certificate to protect the owner AIA A201, Sec 9.5.1, allows the architect to withhold the whole amount or a partial amount. If payment is to be withheld, the architect must notify the owner and contractor. The architect and contractor do not necessarily have to agree on the amount, although they should attempt to arrive at a mutually agreeable sum that accurately represents the amount of work completed

Which of the following statements is correct? (A) The architect becomes responsible for a defect in the work if he or she sees the defect during a site visit but fails to report it to the contractor (B) The architect has the sole right to make changes in the work (C) The architect is responsible for verifying soil test reports provided by the owner (D) The architect must update the preliminary estimate of the cost of the work when the construction documents are almost complete

(D) The architect must update the preliminary estimate of the cost of the work when the construction documents are almost complete The architect has a responsibility to keep the contractor informed of any nonconforming work and to cooperate in getting the job done, but the architect may not be held legally responsible if the work is not completed or is not in accordance with the construction documents Changes to the work may be suggested by the architect, owner, or contractor, but the owner must authorize any proposed changes. The architect may rely upon the accuracy of the information provided by the owner

A project is about 60% complete when the owner begins receiving field reports from the architect stating that the contractor is failing to properly supervise the job, which is resulting in incorrect work. After receiving several unsatisfactory reports, the owner becomes concerned about the contractor's performance and progress and asks the architect for advice. What should be done if the work is being performed under the conditions of the AIA A201? (A) After receiving the architect's field reports, the owner should stop the work and arrange for a meeting between the owner, architect, and contractor to determine the cause of the problems and what the contractor intends to do. If the contractor does not correct the work, the owner may carry out the work with other contractors and deduct the cost of the repairs from the original contractor's construction cost by change order (B) The architect should recommend that the owner give the contractor written notice of nonconformance with the contract documents and if, after seven days, the contractor has not begun corrective measures, the owner should terminate the contract (C) The architect and owner should discuss the problem to see if the owner is willing to accept the nonconforming work in exchange for a reduction in the contract sum. If not, the owner should give seven days' written notice to terminate the contract. The owner has the option of finding another contractor to finish the job. (D) The architect should, with the owner's knowledge, reject nonconforming work and notify the contractor that it must be corrected promptly. The architect should then remind the owner that the owner can have the work corrected after giving the contractor a seven-day written notice to correct the work and then an additional three days with a written notice

(D) The architect should, with the owner's knowledge, reject nonconforming work and notify the contractor that it must be corrected promptly. The architect should then remind the owner that the owner can have the work corrected after giving the contractor a seven-day written notice to correct the work and then an additional three days with a written notice The first step is to officially notify the contractor that the work is incorrect. The architect must do this in writing. The incorrect work should be rejected, and the contractor should be told to promptly correct it in accordance with the contract. If the contractor does not correct the work, the owner may correct the work with his or her own forces or terminate the original construction contract Stopping the work always has a detrimental effect on the entire project, and it does not provide for the normal notice to the contractor of nonconforming work. Quick termination of the contract without trying other remedies is not in accordance with the contract The contractor should always be notified in writing of any problems with the work and asked to correct the situation. The owner does not have the option of accepting nonconforming work, but this is often not the best course of action because it can lead to disagreement about what amount should be deducted from

Which of the following statements is true? (A) "Clerk of the works" is another term for the architect's project representative (B) If a contractor discovers an error in the contract documents, the architect is required to absorb the cost of correcting the drawings and pay for the cost of construction related to the error (C) A construction change directive must be signed by the contractor to be valid (D) The contractor is responsible for notifying the surety of any change orders issued during a project

(D) The contractor is responsible for notifying the surety of any change orders issued during a project It is the contractor's responsibility to notify the surety of any change orders issued during a project so that the amount of insurance coverage may be increased or decreased as necessary A "clerk of the works" is a representative hired by the owner to monitor progress on site and keep project records. The architect's project representative is an employee of the architect who is on site whenever construction is underway. This full-time representation is an additional service and is contracted separately using AIA B352, Duties, Responsibilities and Limitations of Authority of the Architect's Project Representative

While removing floor tile in the lobby of an old theater, a contractor suspects that the mastic may contain asbestos. In accordance with AIA A201, she stops work and reports her findings to the owner. The owner hires a testing laboratory to evaluate the samples, which confirms the contractor's suspicions. The project is at a standstill for three weeks while abatement takes place. When the area is clear, the contractor prepares a change order request for a time extension and compensation for expenses incurred as a result of the discovery. The owner refuses, stating that the contractor's proposal for four extra weeks and $10,000 to cover shutdown and startup costs is unreasonable. What is the next step? (A) The architect should issue a construction change directive and order the work to proceed so that more time is not lost while the owner and contractor negotiate (B) The claim should proceed directly to mediation (C) The contract time should automatically be extended by three weeks because the project was shut down for three weeks (D) The initial decision maker (IDM) should review the claim and make a decision

(D) The initial decision maker (IDM) should review the claim and make a decision AIA A201, Sec 10.3 addresses the discovery of hazardous materials. The contractor was correct to stop work and immediately notify the owner of her suspicions, and the owner was correct to engage testing agency to confirm that asbestos was present. The contractor has the right to an appropriate extension of the contract time and fiar compensation for costs related to stopping and restarting the work. This change is negotiated between the owner and contractor, and the contract is modified by change order If the owner and contractor cannot agree, the contractor may assert a claim, and the issue is referred to the initial decision maker as discussed in A201, Sec 15.2

When is the contractor usually entitled to submit an application for payment that requests payment of the retainage? (A) following the approval of the first application for payment (B) after each subcontractor completes his or her portion of the work and the retainage associated with that line item can be released (C) when the project has reached substantial completion (D) after the final completion

(D) after the final completion Retainage is the percent of the contract sum that is withheld from each payment throughout the course of the project to create a fund that protects the owner from a situation in which the contractor does not have sufficient funds to compensate creditors or subcontractors and cannot complete the work. The time at which it is released to the contractor depends on the arrangements agreed upon in the owner-contractor agreement, but it is usually held by the owner until the end of the project. The contractor may then request release of retainage through the final application for payment The terms of retainage are subject to negotiation as part of the contract discussions, and the contractor may negotiate an arrangement in which the percentage of retainage decreases as the project moves forward. Retainage affects the first subcontractors more than those who come to the site near the end of the project because they may not receive full compensation for their work until the project comes to an end, which could be months or even years after their responsibilities are complete

When a contractor proposes a substitution of a material or method of construction that is specified in the contract documents, the architect's responsibility in reviewing the substitution is (A) proving that the proposed substitution is equivalent to the original (B) finding documentation that relates to the substitution (C) forwarding the request to the owner (D) approving or disapproving the request

(D) approving or disapproving the request Any request for substitution by the contractor must be made in writing and must be accompanied by a complete description of the proposed substitution, including drawings, test data, and other information necessary for an evaluation. The burden of proof of the merit of the substitution falls upon the contractor. The architect is required to review the submission and either approve or disapprove it

The owner decides to relocate a door opening before a wall is framed. The contractor confirms that there will be no change to the project time or cost associated with this modification because work in this area has not yet begun. Which of these documents should the architect use to direct the contractor to make the change? (A) construction change directive (B) amendment to the construction contract (C) change order (D) architect's supplemental instructions

(D) architect's supplemental instructions (ASI) Construction change directives and change orders are used when a change to the project will modify the project time or cost. A construction change directive is issued when the owner and contractor cannot agree on the terms of the change, but the work must proceed to keep the project on schedule. When the owner and contractor come to an agreement on the terms, the construction change directive is replaced with a change order that modifies the contract The proposed change will not affect the project time or cost, so the architect should use G710, Architect's Supplemental Instructions, to instruct the contractor to move the door opening

A change order can be requested by the (A) architect (B) owner (C) architect or owner (D) architect, owner, or contractor

(D) architect, owner, or contractor A request for proposal is made by the architect, which outlines the anticipated scope of work. A cost proposal is prepared by the contractor, and if accepted by the owner, the architect may prepare the change order to amend the contract. The change order is finalized when all three parties have signed the agreement

According to the AIA agreements between the owner and the contractor, the amount of retainage withheld from each application for payment is (A) 5% of the amount due (B) 10% of the amount due (C) 10% of the total contract price (D) as stated in the owner-contractor agreement

(D) as stated in the owner-contractor agreement The amount of retainage withheld from each application for payment is determined by the owner with advice from legal counsel and defined in AIA A101, Standard Form of Agreement Between Owner and Contractor where the basis for payment is a Stipulated Sum. The exact percentage is whatever is agreed to by both parties to the contract. The contract may specify that the percentage of retainage be reduced as the project nears completion, or it may establish different percentages of retainage for work done and for stored materials

A contractor is installing a colonnade at the perimeter of a dining courtyard in an open-air shopping mall. The drawings show 12in diameter columns spaced at 8ft on center. However, the description in the millwork specification calls for 10in diameter Roman Doric columns. The contractor should (A) provide 12in diameter columns (B) provide 10in diameter columns (C) consult the owner (D) consult the architect

(D) consult the architect Although it is commonly believed that the specifications take precedence when there is a conflict between drawings and specs, A201 clearly states that this is not the case. No order of precedence governs the interpretation of the contract documents; rather they "are complementary, and what is required by one shall be as binding as if required by all". A201 Sec 1.2.1 goes on to state that the contractor is required to provide what is "reasonably inferable" from the contract documents A201, Sec 4.2.11, fives the architect the responsibility to "interpret and decide matters concerning performance under, and requirements of, the Contract Documents on written request of either the Owner or Contractor"

With which kind of project delivery method are the architect's duties and responsibilities during preconstruction most limited? (A) construction manager as adviser (B) design-bid-build (C) design-build (D) integrated project delivery

(D) integrated project delivery When the integrated project delivery method is used, the architect's responsibilities are more limited than in the other three methods because the bidding or negotiation for large portions of the work has already been done. The architect is still responsible for working with permitting agencies to ensure code compliance, answering questions from subcontractors and vendors bidding for relatively small portions of the work, and reviewing prefabrication studies.

If a general contractor fails to pay a subcontractor, the subcontractor can protect its financial interests by using a(n) (A) performance bond (B) contractor's affidavit of payment (C) builder's risk insurance (D) mechanic's lien

(D) mechanic's lien A mechanic's lien is a claim by one party against the property of another party for the satisfaction of a debt. It can be used by a material supplier, subcontractor, or contractor who has a financial interest in the project to gain payment. In extreme cases, a mechanic's lien can force the sale of the owner's property to satisfy the debt. A lien encumbers the owner's property , making it impossible to sell or transfer the property until the lien is satisfied. This is usually enough pressure to force the owner to resolve the situation. As an alternative to liens, a labor and material payment pond can protect the owner against claims by subcontractors and suppliers who are not paid by the general contractor. The bond gives these parties the right to collect payment from the surety (the company that issued the bond)

After construction documents have been provided to the general contractor for pricing, an architect decides to change the location of a window by less than 8 in to align it with the center of the room in which it is located. Who is responsible for approving the proposed change? (A) the owner (B) the contractor (C) both the owner and the contractor (D) neither the owner nor the contractor

(D) neither the owner nor the contractor Because construction has not begun, adjusting the location of a window by less than 8 in would be considered a minor change. There would be no change to the quantity of materials utilized and no change to the installation cost or time. The information regarding the change would be issued to the contractor and owner with an addendum, if the contract has not yet been signed, or a bulletin

A project is determined to be "substantially complete" when the (A) work is finished except for items on the punch list (B) architect has determined that the building is nearly finished (C) contractor has notified the architect that the work is complete (D) owner can utilize the building for its intended use

(D) owner can utilize the building for its intended use Substantial completion means that the work or a designated portion of the work is sufficiently complete in accordance with the contract documents so that the owner can occupy or utilize the work for its intended use. A building can be substantially complete while still having minor items that the contractor must finish. Substantial completion is addressed in A201, Sec 9.8

Four years ago, an architecture firm completed the design of a new school. Construction was completed two years later. A year and a half after final completion, the district superintendent calls the architect and explains that there is a leak in the roof of the chemistry classroom. The architect informs the contractor and then schedules a meeting at the site to investigate the situation. It is found that the work is constructed in compliance with the requirements of the contract documents, but on of the roofing membranes is brittle due to sun exposure and has begun to crack. Who is responsible for correcting the problem? (A) the roofing manufacturer (B) the school district (C) the contractor (D) there is not enough information to answer the question

(D) there is not enough information to answer the question In this situation, the work is in compliance with the contract documents. The first question that should be investigated is whether a separate warranty was required for the roofing materials. Warranty requirements for individual materials or assemblies should be outlined in the product specifications. If the material failed within its warranty period, the roofing manufacturer may be responsible for the repair. However, if it is found that the architect incorrectly specified a product not suited for the environmental conditions at the site or for this particular application, the architect may be held responsible for the cost of the repair

During the bid period, a contractor wants to propose a substitution of a material specified in the contract documents. According to A701, Instructions to Bidders, the request for a substitution must be received by the architect ____ days prior to the receipt of bids. (Fill in the blank.)

10 days According to AIA A701, no substitutions can be considered unless a written request for such approval has been received by the architect at least 10 days prior to the date for receipt of bids If the substitutions are approved, the architect must issue an addendum providing this information to all bidders no later that four days prior to the date for receipt of bids

The contractor must submit the application for payment to the architect ____ days in advance of the scheduled payment date. (Fill in the blank.)

10 days Applications for payment must be submitted at least 10 days in advance of the scheduled payment date according to AIA A201, Sec 9.3.1. The date of payment is established in AIA A101. A201, Sec 9.4.1 states that the architect then has seven days to review the application and either certify it and send it to the owner for payment, or reject it and provide the reasons for the rejection to the contractor in writing

A contractor makes a claim for additional money for extra work caused by unforeseen circumstances. According to AIA A201, General Conditions of the Contract for Construction, the initial decision maker (IDM) must respond to this claim within ____ days. (Fill in the blank.)

10 days The IDM is a person designated to be the first interpreter of the contract documents when disputes arise during construction. The purpose of allowing a third party to make initial judgments on claims is to facilitate conflict resolution and minimize the number of claims that proceed to arbitration or mediation. Traditionally, the architect served in this capacity, and if an alternate IDM is not identified, these responsibilities become the architect's A201, Sec. 15.2, states that the IDM must respond within 10 days of notification of the claim by the contractor. The IDM may request supporting data to further document the claim

Which party is responsible for the costs associated with special inspections required by the IBC? (A) contractor (B) architect or design professional (C) code official (D) owner

(D) owner

In most cases, the person responsible for coordinating the process of commissioning a large building should be (A) the architect (B) the constructor (C) the owner (D) a third-party agent

(D) a third-party agent Commissioning a large building can be a complicated process, and in most cases it should be done by an independent, third-party agent

Which of the following materials has the smallest dimensional tolerances? (A) precast concrete tees (B) 2x4 wood framing at a window opening (C) steel beams (D) wood paneling

(D) wood paneling Tolerance is the amount of a building permitted to be "off" from the specified dimension. Wood paneling has the most restrictive tolerances, as even small deviations from the prescribed dimensions are noticeable