ARE - Architect Registration Examination Construction Contract Administration Questions and Answers

Question 1

An architect receives a contractor's Application for Payment that includes a request for payment for materials stored securely at an off-site warehouse.
According to AIA A201-2017, General Conditions of the Contract for Construction, which of the following is a prerequisite for the architect to certify this portion of the payment?

Accepted Answer

Prior written approval from the Owner for payment of off-site stored materials.

Answer

A verbal confirmation from the contractor that the materials are insured.

Answer

A photograph of the materials provided by the contractor's supplier.

Answer

A standard purchase order for the materials.

Question 2

What is the primary legal and contractual significance of the date of Substantial Completion as established by the architect?

Accepted Answer

It transfers responsibility for property insurance from the contractor to the owner and marks the beginning of the warranty period.

Answer

It signifies that all work, including all punch list items, is 100% complete.

Answer

It allows the contractor to remove all equipment from the site and terminate their contract.

Answer

It is the date on which the architect's construction administration services officially end.

Question 3

During a site visit, the Owner and Architect agree that a non-structural interior partition should be shifted by six inches to better accommodate a piece of furniture. This change has no impact on the project's cost or schedule. Which document should the architect issue to direct the contractor to make this change?

Accepted Answer

An Architect's Supplemental Instruction (ASI)

Answer

A Construction Change Directive (CCD)

Answer

A Change Order

Answer

A Request for Proposal (RFP)

Question 4

When an architect reviews a contractor's shop drawing submittal for steel stairs, what is the architect's primary responsibility according to AIA A201?

Accepted Answer

To confirm the submittal's conformance with the design concept expressed in the contract documents.

Answer

To verify all field measurements, fabrication techniques, and quantities.

Answer

To ensure the contractor has coordinated the stair installation with other trades.

Answer

To approve the means and methods of erection and ensure job site safety.

Question 5

While excavating for foundations, a contractor discovers a large mass of rock not indicated in the owner-provided soil borings (which are part of the contract documents). According to AIA A201-2017, what is the contractor's required immediate action?

Accepted Answer

Stop work in the affected area and provide prompt written notice to the Owner and Architect.

Answer

Proceed with the rock removal and submit a change order for the additional costs incurred.

Answer

Consult directly with a geotechnical engineer to determine the best method of removal.

Answer

Document the condition with photographs and continue working around the rock to mitigate schedule delays.

Question 6

Under the terms of AIA A201-2017, what is the role of the Initial Decision Maker (IDM) when a claim arises between the owner and contractor?

Accepted Answer

To render an initial, impartial decision on the claim as a condition precedent to mediation and binding dispute resolution.

Answer

To act as a mediator and facilitate a mutually agreeable settlement.

Answer

To issue a final and legally binding arbitration award.

Answer

To represent the architect's interests exclusively and defend the contract documents.