FREE General Contractor License Project Management Questions and Answers

Question 1

During a project, a subcontractor discovers a discrepancy between the architectural drawings and the structural plans, making it impossible to install a specified beam. What is the first formal step the general contractor should take to resolve this ambiguity?

Accepted Answer

Submit a Request for Information (RFI) to the architect or engineer.

Answer

A Request for Information (RFI) is the standard, formal process used in construction to ask for clarification on plans, specifications, or drawings. When a contractor finds a conflict or missing information, an RFI is sent to the design team (architect or engineer) to get an official answer. Proceeding without clarification or issuing a change order prematurely would be improper and create risk.

Question 2

A general contractor is managing a project with a fixed completion date. To ensure the project stays on schedule without overallocating their limited crew, they adjust the timing of non-critical activities within their available slack or 'float'. What project management technique is being used?

Accepted Answer

Resource Smoothing

Answer

Resource smoothing is a technique used to optimize resources by adjusting activities within their available float time, ensuring that resource usage is balanced without affecting the project's critical path or end date. In contrast, resource leveling might extend the project deadline to resolve resource conflicts.

Question 3

Which of the following best describes the primary purpose of a construction daily report?

Accepted Answer

To provide a legal, historical record of job site activities, progress, and conditions.

Answer

The main purpose of a construction daily report is to create a detailed, historical log of everything that happens on a job site each day. This includes weather conditions, crew sizes, work performed, equipment used, safety incidents, and visitors. This documentation is crucial for communication, tracking progress, and serving as evidence in case of disputes or claims.

Question 4

During a commercial build-out, the client decides they want to add three additional electrical outlets in an office after the drywall has been installed. The general contractor informs the client this will increase the cost and may add a day to the schedule. What document must be executed before the contractor proceeds with this additional work?

Accepted Answer

A Change Order

Answer

A Change Order is a formal document that amends the original contract to reflect a change in the scope of work, project cost, or schedule. Since the client's request for additional outlets alters the original scope and has cost and time implications, a signed change order is required before proceeding to ensure all parties agree to the modifications.

Question 5

Which of the following activities is a key component of the project closeout phase?

Accepted Answer

Delivering as-built drawings and owner's manuals.

Answer

Project closeout is the final phase of a construction project. A critical task during this phase is handing over all necessary documentation to the owner, which includes as-built drawings (revised plans showing all changes made during construction), and operation and maintenance (O&M) manuals for installed equipment. The other options occur during the pre-construction or bidding phases.

General Contractor License Practice Test

General Contractor License Practice Test

FREE General Contractor License Project Management Questions and Answers