Construction & Evaluation: Bidding through Post-Occupancy
Bidding and award
Bidding may be competitive, negotiated, or sole source. Addenda clarify the documents during bidding; bids are opened and awarded, then the owner-contractor agreement is executed.
Construction contract administration
The architect administers the contract: submittals and shop drawings, samples and mockups, requests for information, payment certification, change orders, and site observation. AIA G702/G703 is the application and certificate for payment. Retainage withholds a percentage until completion. Lien waivers track payment to subcontractors and suppliers.
Observation, not supervision
The architect visits the site to observe progress and quality and to determine whether the work conforms to the contract documents. The architect does not supervise, does not control means and methods, and does not guarantee the contractor's work. Field reports document conditions and conversations.
Completion and closeout
Substantial completion is the point at which the work is usable for its intended purpose; it triggers warranty start, owner possession, and often a reduced retainage. A punch list records incomplete or defective work. Final completion follows closeout: as-builts, O&M manuals, warranties, attic stock, and consent of surety. Post-occupancy evaluation measures actual performance against the program.
Traps
Approving a submittal does not relieve the contractor of responsibility for deviations. Change orders require owner signature. The architect has no duty to enforce jobsite safety but must report observed hazards. Do not confuse substantial completion with final completion.
Worked example
Contract sum $1,000,000; work completed $600,000; prior certificates $500,000; 10% retainage. Retainage = $60,000, so earned less retainage = $540,000, and the amount due this period is $40,000.