Field reports and installation procedures

Project Management
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1

Should installation procedures/techniques be included in the architects field report? I am having a hard time understanding why one of these statements should not be included in an architect’s field report but the other statement should be included?

  1. Tile is being installed using an alternate method of installation

    1. Incorrect. Installation procedures qualify as “means and methods” of construction, and the architect is not typically responsible for means and methods.

  2. The contractor instructed the tile subcontractor to use ⅛” joints as noted on the contract documents.

    1. Correct. Notes about how the work is being installed in the field are appropriate for field reports.

Thanks!

2

I also am questioning why one is ok and the other is not. Can someone assist?

3

@estring @neftalihernandezjr This is a great question! The distinction is between documenting what was observed in the field versus directing how the work should be performed.

Saying the contractor instructed the tile subcontractor to use 1/8" joints is appropriate because it documents that the work is being installed in accordance with the contract documents. However, stating that tile is being installed using an “alternate method of installation” starts to comment on the contractor’s means and methods, which are typically the contractor’s responsibility, not the architect’s.

Field reports should focus on observable conditions, progress, and conformance with the drawings/specifications rather than evaluating or directing construction techniques.

Hope this helps!

Kiara Galicinao, AIA, NCARB
Product Coordinator
Black Spectacles