GCC Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield GCC facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What is the purpose of a Safety Data Sheet (SDS)? → To document chemical safety information
2. What is the primary purpose of building codes? → To ensure minimum standards for safety, health, and structural integrity
3. Which OSHA regulation outlines general safety and health provisions in construction? → OSHA 1926 Subpart C
4. When terminating a subcontractor for default, the general contractor must typically: → Provide written notice and a cure period as specified in the subcontract
5. Why is a project scope statement important? → To define project goals and deliverables
6. What is retainage in construction contracts? → Withheld portion of payment until completion
7. What documentation should accompany quality control activities? → Test reports, inspection checklists, non-conformance reports, and corrective actions
8. A Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) must be prepared: → Before land disturbance begins
9. A 'flow-down clause' in a subcontract requires that: → Subcontractors comply with all applicable prime contract terms
10. Which type of insurance is commonly required on construction projects? → General liability insurance
11. When should a risk register be updated? → Continuously as new risks emerge and existing risks change
12. What is the consequence of practicing outside the defined scope of practice? → Potential license revocation, legal liability, and risk to public safety
13. Under most U.S. state lien statutes, when does the deadline to file a mechanics lien typically begin to run? → From the date the claimant last furnished labor or materials to the project
14. Why is stakeholder communication important in project management? → It ensures expectations are managed and decisions are informed and timely
15. What factor most commonly causes project cost overruns? → Inadequate scope definition and uncontrolled scope changes
16. Which financial statement provides the best view of an organization's profitability? → The income statement showing revenues, expenses, and net profit
17. What is a change order in construction? → An amendment to contract scope or cost
18. What is the first step in the risk management process? → Identify potential risks through systematic analysis
19. A subcontractor 'default' occurs when: → The subcontractor fails to perform contractual obligations
20. What is the primary purpose of regulatory compliance in professional practice? → To protect public safety and ensure minimum standards of care
21. Which entity typically adopts and enforces building codes? → Local building authorities
22. How should variance analysis be used in financial management? → To identify and investigate significant differences between planned and actual results
23. When a vendor delivers materials that do not meet project specifications, the general contractor should first: → Reject the materials and issue a formal written nonconformance notice
24. What is the purpose of a building permit? → To authorize work that meets code
25. What is the primary purpose of quality control inspections? → To verify work meets specified standards and identify deficiencies early
26. What is the consequence of practicing outside the defined scope of practice? → Potential license revocation, legal liability, and risk to public safety
27. A contractor discovers underground storage tanks (USTs) on a demolition site. The first regulatory step is to: → Notify the appropriate state environmental agency and assess for leaks
28. Which document is essential to initiate legal construction work? → Construction contract
29. What should be done when materials do not meet specifications? → Reject the materials, document the non-conformance, and notify the supplier
30. What must be completed before using any specialized equipment? → Verify proper calibration and review safety procedures