COMMENCEMENT, SITE AND SITE MEETINGS Flashcards
- What must the contractor provide to the architect under the terms of the ABIC contract before site possession is granted?
Any official document (including report, notice, permits, licence, approval from authorised persons, statutory approval, approval for provision of infrastructure).
- Under the terms of the ABIC contract the contractor is required to produce a program showing how the works will be completed. Should this program for the works become part of the contract documents?
No, the program does not become part of the contract documents. Parts of the program will be used to complete the contract (i.e. date for PC). The program is subject to change throughout construction (and the contractor is obliged to issue updates to the program where applicable), and referred to during construction to monitor progress.
- During the construction phase of a project who is responsible for the supervision of the works?
The contractor.
- What is the difference between making regular inspections (as stated in the AIA fee agreement) and supervising the works?
The architect inspects the works to ensure that they are built in accordance with the contract documents, to check the quality of the work constructed, as part of assessing claims and variations… Supervision refers to directing the work carried out on site and the sub‐contractors – which is not the role of the architect.
- Who controls the site during construction of the works and why?
The contractor controls the site during construction as their insurances are covering the work and people on site, the contract states that the contractor takes possession of the site during this time.
- Is it OK for your client (the owner) to visit the works at any time to check on progress?
The owner can visit the site so long as they notify the contractor of when they plan to attend site, and in turn receive the contractor’s confirmation of this.
- What is the purpose of a site meeting? Typically, what would be covered in a site meeting? What additional items should you (as the architect) ensure are included in the first site meeting?
The purpose of a site meeting is to inspect and assess the work completed to date. Topics that would be covered during a site meeting are: works completed to date, scheduled works for the next week, any issues on site, clarification of claims…
- How often should site meetings be held and why?
Usually site meetings are held weekly, although it depends on the size,
Complexity and location of the site.
- Who should run site meetings and prepares the minutes? Explain the reasons for your answer.
The contract administrator/architect usually runs the site meetings and prepares the minutes. Because they are to act impartially…
- How do you respond to a question from the contractor on site?
Don’t necessarily act straight away unless you are confident of the answer. It is good to go back to the office and check any documents if necessary, refer to the contract, and then respond in writing back to the contractor. Jobs that are on site should have priority over jobs being documented.
- How do you respond to a question on site from a sub‐contractor?
Explain to the sub‐contractor that they are to refer all queries through the head contractor. Do not direct a sub‐contractor.
- What is the normal way for a contractor to formally ask questions under the contract?
To issue a written Request for Information (RFI).
- What does the ABIC contract require by way of response to such questions?
Formal written proforma – Architect’s Instruction…
- What are the pros and cons of the formal question and answer system under the contract. Where is the architect at risk in this process? What could the architect do to minimise any risk?
The pros are that a written record is kept…
The cons are that if the contractor issues too many RFIs, the architect may spend more time than necessary assessing these..
