CLARB - Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards Construction Administration Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: During a monthly site observation visit, the landscape architect notices that the contractor has installed site furnishings that do not match the approved submittals. What is the landscape architect's most appropriate initial action?
- Issue a stop-work order for the entire project.
- Document the non-conforming work in a field report and formally notify the contractor in writing. (Correct answer)
- Verbally instruct the contractor's crew to immediately remove the incorrect furnishings.
- Prepare a change order to accept the non-conforming work.
Correct answer: Document the non-conforming work in a field report and formally notify the contractor in writing.
The landscape architect's role during construction administration is to observe the work for general conformance with the contract documents. The proper procedure for addressing non-conforming work is to document it and notify the contractor through official written channels (e.g., a field report or separate letter). This creates a formal record and gives the contractor the opportunity to correct the work. Issuing a stop-work order is a severe step typically reserved for the owner or if there is an imminent safety risk. Directing the contractor's crew is not the landscape architect's role, and a change order would only be prepared if the owner decides to accept the non-conforming work, which is not the initial step.
Question 2: A contractor submits an application for payment that includes a request for payment for materials stored off-site. For the landscape architect to approve this portion of the payment, which of the following conditions must typically be met?
- The materials must be scheduled for installation within one week.
- The materials must be insured in the owner's name and suitably stored. (Correct answer)
- The contractor must provide a verbal confirmation of the material's location.
- The materials must be paid for in full by the landscape architect's firm.
Correct answer: The materials must be insured in the owner's name and suitably stored.
Contract documents, such as the AIA General Conditions, often allow for payment of materials not yet incorporated into the work but stored securely, either on-site or at an agreed-upon off-site location. To protect the owner's investment, the contractor must typically provide proof that the materials are properly stored, secured, and insured, often in the owner's name, against loss or damage.
Question 3: What is the primary significance of the Certificate of Substantial Completion?
- It confirms that all work, including all punch list items, is 100% complete.
- It terminates the landscape architect's responsibilities on the project.
- It marks the date when the warranty period for the contractor's work begins. (Correct answer)
- It authorizes the contractor to submit the final application for payment.
Correct answer: It marks the date when the warranty period for the contractor's work begins.
Substantial Completion is the stage at which 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. This is a critical milestone because it typically marks the start of the contractor's warranty period and the transfer of responsibility for security, maintenance, and insurance from the contractor to the owner. The punch list of minor corrective items is usually generated at this stage, and final completion occurs after these items are addressed.
Question 4: A contractor on a public park project encounters an unforeseen underground utility line not shown on the drawings, which requires a significant redesign of a proposed retaining wall footing. The contractor submits a claim for additional time and cost. This is an example of a(n):
- Request for Information (RFI).
- Addendum.
- Concealed or unknown condition. (Correct answer)
- Alternate bid.
Correct answer: Concealed or unknown condition.
This scenario describes a classic 'concealed or unknown condition.' Standard general conditions in construction contracts typically include clauses that address unforeseen conditions below the surface that differ materially from those indicated in the contract documents. This allows the contractor to make a claim for an equitable adjustment to the contract time and sum. An RFI would be the document used to ask for clarification, but the condition itself is the root cause.
Question 5: The landscape architect is reviewing shop drawings submitted by the contractor for a custom-designed shade structure. The drawings conform to the design intent, dimensions, and specified materials. What is the appropriate action for the landscape architect to take?
- Take 'No Exception Taken' or 'Reviewed'. (Correct answer)
- Take 'Revise and Resubmit'.
- Take 'Rejected'.
- Mark as 'Received' and file without review.
Correct answer: Take 'No Exception Taken' or 'Reviewed'.
When a submittal, such as a shop drawing, conforms to the requirements of the contract documents, the standard professional action is to mark it as such. Common terminology includes 'No Exception Taken,' 'Furnish as Submitted,' or 'Reviewed.' This indicates that the submittal meets the design intent and the contractor can proceed with fabrication or procurement. 'Revise and Resubmit' or 'Rejected' would be used if there were errors or deviations.
Question 6: Which of the following documents is typically required from the contractor as part of the project closeout process to protect the owner from future claims by subcontractors or suppliers?
- A final list of all material suppliers.
- Copies of all Requests for Information (RFIs).
- A Consent of Surety to Final Payment. (Correct answer)
- The contractor's initial bid proposal.
Correct answer: A Consent of Surety to Final Payment.
The Consent of Surety to Final Payment is a document from the surety company (which provides the performance and payment bonds) stating that it agrees to the owner making the final payment to the contractor. This document, along with lien waivers, provides assurance to the owner that the surety agrees the contractor's obligations have been met and protects the owner from future claims or liens from unpaid subcontractors and suppliers.
CLARB - Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards Construction Administration Questions and Answers
During a monthly site observation visit, the landscape architect notices that the contractor has installed site furnishings that do not match the approved submittals.
What is the landscape architect's most appropriate initial action?