Construction Planning and Management Flashcards

Before signing a subcontract, which document should a builder require to manage liability risk?

Answer: A certificate of insurance naming the builder as additional insured

A current certificate of insurance with additional insured status protects the builder if the subcontractor's work causes a loss.

What is the purpose of a lien waiver collected when paying a subcontractor?

Answer: To release the sub's right to file a mechanics lien for amounts paid

Lien waivers confirm payment and release lien rights, protecting the owner's title and the builder.

Retainage on a subcontract most commonly serves what purpose?

Answer: Holding a percentage of payment until work is complete and accepted

Retainage withholds a portion of each payment, often 5 to 10 percent, as leverage to ensure completion and punch list correction.

A trade contractor discovers that the plans conflict with the structural engineer's details. What should they submit?

Answer: A request for information (RFI)

An RFI formally asks the design team to clarify conflicts or missing information before work proceeds.

What is the main purpose of a pre-construction meeting with trade partners?

Answer: To review scope, schedule, safety, and quality expectations before work starts

Pre-construction meetings align trades on expectations and responsibilities, preventing costly misunderstandings.

Which practice best ensures that a subcontractor's scope of work does not leave gaps or overlaps with other trades?

Answer: Written, detailed scopes of work attached to each subcontract

Detailed written scopes clearly assign responsibilities and prevent disputes over who does what.

Under OSHA requirements for residential construction, at what height must fall protection generally be provided?

Answer: 6 feet or more above a lower level

OSHA 1926.501(b)(13) requires fall protection for residential construction work at 6 feet or more above lower levels.