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HKIA/ARB PA Paper 3 study materials
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HKIA/ARB PA Paper 3 practice questions

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Question 1Case Study

Under the Hong Kong Building (Planning) Regulations, a site in a 'Class A' site classification is defined primarily by reference to which characteristic?

  1. The site has no street frontage and is served only by a service lane
  2. The site abuts three or more streets each of not less than 4.5 m width
  3. The site is bounded by a single street of at least 4.5 m width Correct answer.
  4. The site is bounded by two streets that meet at a corner

Explanation

Class A sites are those bounded by one street of the prescribed minimum width; the classification then governs the permitted site coverage and plot ratio under the Building (Planning) Regulations. Class B covers two streets and Class C covers three or more, so the number of qualifying street frontages is the defining variable.

Question 2Case Study

An architect is appointed as Authorized Person for a new composite building. Which statement best describes the AP's statutory role during construction?

  1. The AP personally carries out structural design calculations for every element
  2. The AP acts as the independent checker appointed by the Building Authority
  3. The AP supervises the contractor's programme and certifies payment valuations
  4. The AP is responsible for supervising the building works and certifying compliance with the approved plans Correct answer.

Explanation

The Authorized Person is the person appointed by the building owner to supervise the carrying out of building works and to certify that they comply with the approved plans and the Ordinance. Payment certification and programming belong to the contract administrator role, and independent checking is a separate function.

Question 3Case Study

A developer wants to convert an existing industrial building into a hotel. Under the Buildings Ordinance framework, which application is normally required before such a material change of use can proceed?

  1. An application for occupation permit only
  2. An application for planning permission under the Town Planning Ordinance together with submission of building plans for approval Correct answer.
  3. Notification to the Fire Services Department only
  4. Registration of the change with the Land Registry

Explanation

A material change of use generally requires planning permission where the site is covered by an outline zoning plan, and building plans must be submitted to the Building Authority for approval because the change affects means of escape, fire resistance and other prescribed matters. Neither an occupation permit nor a simple notification substitutes for these approvals.

Question 4Case Study

In a Hong Kong project using a standard lump sum contract with quantities, the architect issues an instruction that varies the works. Which statement correctly reflects the typical contractual position?

  1. The contractor is entitled to treat the instruction as a breach of contract
  2. The contractor must comply with the instruction, and the variation is valued under the contract's valuation rules Correct answer.
  3. The contractor may comply only after the Quantity Surveyor certifies the final account
  4. The contractor may refuse all variations unless the employer agrees the price in advance

Explanation

Variation provisions typically oblige the contractor to carry out instructed variations, with the price determined afterwards under the contract's valuation mechanism rather than by prior agreement. Refusal or treatment as breach would undermine the architect's power to administer the works.

Question 5Case Study

A consultant's fee proposal states that the appointment is 'on the HKIA Standard Form of Agreement'. Which matter is most likely to be governed by that document rather than by the building contract?

  1. The contractor's entitlement to extension of time
  2. The retention percentage deducted from interim payments
  3. The scope of the architect's services and the basis of professional fees Correct answer.
  4. The defects liability period for the works

Explanation

The professional appointment agreement governs the architect's duties, scope of services, fees and liability to the client. Extension of time, retention and the defects liability period are all matters of the building contract between employer and contractor.

Question 6Case Study

During a site inspection the architect notices that a structural element has been constructed differently from the approved plans. What is the most appropriate immediate action?

  1. Amend the approved plans retrospectively without notifying anyone
  2. Issue a certificate of completion for the affected portion
  3. Record the observation and notify the Building Authority and the Registered Structural Engineer as appropriate Correct answer.
  4. Instruct the contractor to continue and raise the matter at practical completion

Explanation

A departure from approved plans is a serious matter that may render works unauthorised; the AP should record it and notify the Building Authority and the RSE so that the position can be regularised. Simply continuing, certifying completion, or quietly amending plans would conceal non-compliance.

Question 7Case Study

Which of the following is the principal purpose of the 'occupation permit' in Hong Kong?

  1. To certify that the building may lawfully be occupied for its approved use Correct answer.
  2. To confirm that the building has been insured
  3. To certify that the contractor has been paid in full
  4. To transfer ownership of the building to the purchaser

Explanation

An occupation permit is issued by the Building Authority confirming that the completed building complies with the Ordinance and approved plans and may be occupied for the approved use. It does not deal with payment, title transfer or insurance.

Question 8Case Study

An architect is asked to advise on the fire safety strategy for a proposed change of use in an existing building. Which document is the primary reference for means of escape requirements in Hong Kong?

  1. The Code of Practice for Foundations
  2. The Code of Practice for Fire Safety in Buildings Correct answer.
  3. The Buildings Energy Efficiency Ordinance
  4. The Hong Kong Building Environmental Assessment Method manual

Explanation

The Code of Practice for Fire Safety in Buildings issued by the Buildings Department sets out the prescribed requirements for means of escape, fire resistance and related provisions. The other documents address environmental assessment, energy efficiency and foundations respectively.

Question 9Case Study

A contractor submits a claim for additional payment arising from exceptionally inclement weather that delayed the works. Which statement best reflects the typical treatment under a standard Hong Kong building contract?

  1. The contract may provide for extension of time for inclement weather, with the entitlement to cost depending on the specific clause Correct answer.
  2. Weather is always at the contractor's risk and no extension of time can ever be granted
  3. The architect must reject the claim because weather is an act of God
  4. The contractor is automatically entitled to prolongation costs for any rain

Explanation

Standard forms commonly list exceptionally inclement weather as a relevant event for extension of time, but the entitlement to associated cost depends on the precise wording of the contract. It is therefore neither automatically at the contractor's risk nor automatically compensable.

Question 10Case Study

Under the Buildings Ordinance, which professional is responsible for the structural design and the supervision of structural works?

  1. The Registered General Building Contractor
  2. The Registered Geotechnical Engineer
  3. The Authorized Person
  4. The Registered Structural Engineer Correct answer.

Explanation

The Registered Structural Engineer is responsible for the design and structural adequacy of the works and for supervising structural elements. The AP coordinates the submission and supervises generally, while the RGE deals with geotechnical matters and the contractor executes the works.

Question 11Case Study

An architect is preparing a fee proposal for a client and wishes to limit liability. Which approach is most consistent with professional practice in Hong Kong?

  1. Rely on the contractor to indemnify the architect for design errors
  2. Exclude all liability for negligence by a blanket clause
  3. State that the architect accepts no responsibility for anything after handover
  4. Agree a clearly defined scope of services and, where appropriate, a negotiated limitation of liability with the client Correct answer.

Explanation

Liability is managed through a clear definition of the services undertaken and, subject to legal advice and any applicable restrictions, a negotiated limitation of liability. Blanket exclusions are unlikely to be effective or acceptable, and shifting design risk to the contractor is not a substitute for professional risk management.

Question 12Case Study

In the administration of a building contract, what is the function of an interim certificate issued by the architect?

  1. It finally determines the total contract sum
  2. It replaces the need for a final account
  3. It states the amount the architect considers due to the contractor at that stage, subject to later adjustment Correct answer.
  4. It transfers risk of loss to the employer

Explanation

Interim certificates record sums the architect considers due at intervals during the works, and they remain subject to correction in later certificates and the final account. They do not fix the contract sum, transfer risk, or dispense with the final account.

Question 13Case Study

A client instructs the architect to proceed with a design that the architect believes will not comply with the means of escape requirements. What is the most appropriate professional response?

  1. Proceed and rely on the contractor to resolve the issue on site
  2. Advise the client in writing of the non-compliance risk and decline to certify or submit non-compliant plans Correct answer.
  3. Proceed as instructed and record the client's instruction in the file
  4. Resign immediately without further discussion

Explanation

The architect owes a duty to advise the client of regulatory non-compliance and must not submit or certify plans that breach the Ordinance. Written advice preserves the professional position while allowing the client to reconsider, whereas silent compliance or immediate resignation is disproportionate.

Question 14Case Study

Which of the following best describes the purpose of a 'site formation plan' submission in Hong Kong?

  1. To record the contractor's site safety policy
  2. To show the architectural layout of the proposed building
  3. To demonstrate that earthworks, slopes and retaining structures are designed and will be executed safely Correct answer.
  4. To confirm the developer's funding arrangements

Explanation

Site formation plans deal with earthworks, slopes, retaining structures and associated geotechnical matters, and are reviewed with input from the Registered Geotechnical Engineer. Architectural layout, site safety policy and funding are separate matters.

Question 15Case Study

An employer terminates a building contract. Which statement best reflects the typical position regarding the contractor's obligations after termination?

  1. The contractor is automatically entitled to the full contract sum
  2. The contractor must comply with the contract's post-termination provisions, including preservation of works and removal of plant as directed Correct answer.
  3. The architect loses all authority over the works
  4. The contractor may remove all temporary works immediately regardless of safety

Explanation

Termination clauses typically set out post-termination obligations such as protecting the works, removing plant and materials as directed, and accounting for sums already paid. The contractor cannot simply abandon or remove items without regard to safety, and the contract sum is not automatically payable in full.

Question 16Case Study

In Hong Kong, which body is responsible for processing applications for registration of architects?

  1. The Hong Kong Institute of Architects
  2. The Architects Registration Board Correct answer.
  3. The Construction Industry Council
  4. The Buildings Department

Explanation

The Architects Registration Board is the statutory body that maintains the register of architects and processes registration applications. The HKIA is the professional institute, the Buildings Department administers the Buildings Ordinance, and the CIC promotes construction industry development.

Question 17Case Study

An architect is asked to design a building on a site where the outline zoning plan imposes a building height restriction. Which statement is correct?

  1. Height restrictions can be ignored if the Building Authority approves the plans
  2. The architect must design within the height restriction, and any departure requires planning permission or a planning application Correct answer.
  3. Height restrictions apply only to buildings over 100 m
  4. The Buildings Ordinance plot ratio controls override the zoning plan restriction

Explanation

Statutory planning restrictions in an outline zoning plan bind development, and building plans that exceed them are unlikely to be approved. A departure requires the appropriate planning process, and approval by the Building Authority does not override planning control.

Question 18Case Study

In the context of a Hong Kong construction project, what does 'practical completion' normally signify?

  1. That all retention has been released
  2. That the final account has been agreed
  3. That the works are sufficiently complete for the employer to take possession and use them, with minor items remaining Correct answer.
  4. That the works are complete and free of every defect

Explanation

Practical completion marks the point at which the works are complete enough for the employer to occupy and use, even though minor defects and outstanding items may remain to be addressed. It does not mean the works are perfect, nor does it settle the final account or release retention.

Question 19Case Study

A client asks the architect to specify a particular product supplied by a company in which the architect holds shares. What is the most appropriate course of action?

  1. Resign from the project immediately
  2. Ask the contractor to choose a different product without telling the client
  3. Declare the interest in writing and manage the conflict, including considering alternatives where appropriate Correct answer.
  4. Specify the product without disclosure because it is technically suitable

Explanation

A financial interest in a specified supplier creates a conflict of interest that must be disclosed so the client can make an informed decision. Disclosure and active management of the conflict is the professional response; concealment or covert substitution is not acceptable.

Question 20Case Study

Which statement best describes the relationship between the Buildings Ordinance and the Building (Planning) Regulations?

  1. The Regulations override the Ordinance in the event of conflict
  2. The Regulations are made under the Ordinance and set out detailed planning requirements such as site coverage and plot ratio Correct answer.
  3. The Ordinance is made under the Regulations
  4. The two are unrelated instruments administered by different departments

Explanation

The Building (Planning) Regulations are subsidiary legislation made under the Buildings Ordinance and prescribe detailed planning matters such as site coverage and plot ratio. The Ordinance is the parent legislation, so the Regulations cannot override it.

Question 21Case Study

An architect discovers that a contractor has covered up work that was due for inspection before the architect's approval was given. What is the most appropriate response?

  1. Require the work to be uncovered for inspection, with the cost consequences following the contract Correct answer.
  2. Accept the work because it is now hidden
  3. Report the contractor to the police
  4. Issue a variation to delete the item from the contract

Explanation

Where work is covered before the required inspection, the architect should require it to be opened up so that compliance can be verified, with the cost allocated under the contract. Accepting hidden work or deleting the item would leave compliance unverified.

Question 22Case Study

Which of the following best describes the role of the Registered General Building Contractor in a Hong Kong project?

  1. To certify the structural adequacy of the building
  2. To design the building services systems
  3. To approve the building plans on behalf of the Building Authority
  4. To carry out the building works and be responsible for construction site safety Correct answer.

Explanation

The Registered General Building Contractor is registered to carry out building works and is responsible for construction, including site safety obligations. Design of services, structural certification and plan approval rest with other parties.

Question 23Case Study

In a traditional procurement arrangement, what is the principal advantage of a lump sum contract with fully designed documentation?

  1. It provides the employer with price certainty at tender, subject to variations Correct answer.
  2. It transfers all design responsibility to the contractor
  3. It allows the contractor to start on site before the design is complete
  4. It removes the need for an architect during construction

Explanation

A lump sum contract let on complete documentation gives the employer a defined price at tender, with adjustments only through variations and other contractual mechanisms. It does not permit early commencement before design, remove the architect's role, or shift design responsibility.

Question 24Case Study

An architect is preparing a report for a client on the feasibility of redeveloping an old building. Which factor is most directly relevant to whether the existing building may be demolished?

  1. The colour of the existing facade
  2. The age of the building and any applicable building or planning restrictions, including heritage considerations Correct answer.
  3. The number of previous owners
  4. The contractor's preferred demolition method

Explanation

Whether demolition is permissible depends on building control and planning restrictions, and on heritage or conservation designations where applicable. These are the factors a feasibility report must address, whereas facade colour, ownership history and method preference are not determinative.

Question 25Case Study

Which statement best describes the architect's duty regarding the building contract's programme when administering extensions of time?

  1. The architect has no role in extensions of time
  2. The architect must assess delay events against the contractual provisions and the works as actually programmed Correct answer.
  3. The architect must accept the contractor's programme without review
  4. The architect must always grant the full period claimed

Explanation

The architect assesses whether a delay event falls within the contractual grounds and how it affects completion, using the programme and records. Blind acceptance or blanket refusal would be inconsistent with that duty.

Question 26Case Study

Under the Buildings Ordinance, what is the primary role of the Building Authority in relation to construction works?

  1. To provide structural design services for public housing projects
  2. To enforce compliance with the Ordinance and its subsidiary regulations through plan approval and site supervision Correct answer.
  3. To act as the employer's representative in administering the building contract
  4. To arbitrate disputes between owners and contractors over defects

Explanation

The Building Authority administers the Buildings Ordinance, including approving plans, issuing permits, and enforcing compliance through site inspections and orders. They do not administer contracts, provide design services, or arbitrate disputes.

Question 27Case Study

In Hong Kong, which document typically sets out the architect's scope of services and fee for a private sector project?

  1. The occupation permit issued by the Building Authority
  2. The practical completion certificate issued by the architect
  3. The building contract between the client and the main contractor
  4. The agreement between the client and the architect, often based on a standard form of appointment Correct answer.

Explanation

The architect's appointment agreement defines the scope, fees, and responsibilities, frequently using standard forms published by professional bodies. The building contract governs the contractor's obligations, while permits and certificates are statutory or contractual milestones.

Question 28Case Study

Which of the following best describes the purpose of a building contract's 'defects liability period'?

  1. To provide a period during which the employer may terminate the contract without cause
  2. To extend the construction period for delays caused by inclement weather
  3. To allow the contractor to remedy defects notified by the architect after practical completion Correct answer.
  4. To require the architect to certify the final account within a fixed time

Explanation

The defects liability period is a defined period after practical completion during which the contractor is obliged to rectify defects notified by the architect. It does not relate to time extension, termination rights, or final account certification.

Question 29Case Study

In a traditional Hong Kong building contract, what is the architect's role in certifying payments to the contractor?

  1. The architect negotiates the contract sum with the contractor on behalf of the employer
  2. The architect authorises the employer's bank to release funds directly to the contractor
  3. The architect assesses the value of work done and issues interim certificates for payment Correct answer.
  4. The architect guarantees payment if the employer defaults

Explanation

The architect certifies interim payments based on the value of work executed and materials on site, as required by the contract. The architect does not authorise bank releases, guarantee payment, or negotiate the contract sum after award.

Question 30Case Study

Which of the following is a key consideration when advising a client on the feasibility of a proposed building on a site governed by an outline zoning plan?

  1. The number of car parking spaces required by the client's staff
  2. The architect's professional indemnity insurance limit
  3. The contractor's proposed construction method for the superstructure
  4. The plot ratio and building height restrictions specified in the plan Correct answer.

Explanation

An outline zoning plan sets out zoning, plot ratio, and building height restrictions that directly affect development potential. Construction methods, insurance limits, and client parking preferences are not primary statutory planning controls.

Question 31Case Study

What is the typical consequence if an architect fails to administer the building contract fairly and impartially?

  1. The architect may face disciplinary action and potential liability for losses caused by unfair certification Correct answer.
  2. The employer must immediately appoint a replacement architect
  3. The building contract automatically becomes void
  4. The contractor is entitled to terminate the contract without notice

Explanation

Architects have a duty to act fairly and impartially in certification and contract administration. Breach can lead to disciplinary proceedings and liability for resulting losses, but does not automatically void the contract or trigger termination rights.

Question 32Case Study

In Hong Kong, which of the following is a statutory requirement before commencement of building works?

  1. Completing the defects liability period
  2. Obtaining the Building Authority's approval of plans and consent to commence works Correct answer.
  3. Obtaining the occupation permit for the building
  4. Appointing a quantity surveyor to prepare the final account

Explanation

Building works cannot lawfully commence until the Building Authority has approved the plans and granted consent to commence. Occupation permits are issued after completion, and the other options are not statutory preconditions.

Question 33Case Study

Which of the following best describes the architect's duty when inspecting works that will later be covered up?

  1. The architect should inspect and approve the work before it is covered, as required by the contract or building regulations Correct answer.
  2. The architect should delegate all inspections to the contractor's site agent
  3. The architect may rely solely on the contractor's assurance that the work is correct
  4. The architect is not required to inspect work that will be concealed

Explanation

The architect is expected to inspect and approve work before it is covered up to ensure compliance with the design and regulations. Relying only on the contractor's assurance or delegating entirely is inconsistent with the architect's supervisory role.

Question 34Case Study

In a Hong Kong construction project, what is the purpose of a 'maintenance certificate' issued after the defects liability period?

  1. To certify that the building is safe for occupation
  2. To certify that the contractor has remedied defects and the maintenance period has ended Correct answer.
  3. To certify that the contractor has been paid all retention money
  4. To certify that the architect's fees have been paid in full

Explanation

The maintenance certificate is issued at the end of the defects liability period to confirm that defects have been rectified. It is distinct from the occupation permit and from financial certifications.

Question 35Case Study

An architect is administering a contract where the contractor claims an extension of time due to exceptionally adverse weather. What is the architect's primary task?

  1. Refer the claim directly to the Building Authority for determination
  2. Assess the claim against the contract's extension of time provisions and relevant records Correct answer.
  3. Reject the claim because weather is always a contractor risk
  4. Automatically grant the extension because weather is an employer risk

Explanation

The architect must evaluate the claim under the specific extension of time clause, considering records and causation. Weather is not automatically an employer or contractor risk; the contract terms govern.

Question 36Case Study

During construction, the architect discovers a discrepancy between the approved plans and the works on site. What is the most appropriate first step?

  1. Notify the contractor and client, and issue instructions to rectify or seek variation approval Correct answer.
  2. Report the matter to the police
  3. Immediately instruct the contractor to stop all works on site
  4. Ignore the discrepancy if the works appear structurally sound

Explanation

The architect should promptly notify the parties and take contractual steps to resolve the discrepancy, such as issuing instructions or seeking approval for variations. Stopping all works or ignoring the issue is not appropriate.

Question 37Case Study

In the context of Hong Kong's Buildings Ordinance, what is the role of a 'registered specialist contractor'?

  1. To certify the architect's fee accounts
  2. To carry out specialised works such as foundation, demolition, or site formation under the Ordinance Correct answer.
  3. To provide legal advice on construction contracts
  4. To act as the employer's representative on site

Explanation

Registered specialist contractors are registered under the Buildings Ordinance to undertake specific categories of specialised works. They do not certify fees, provide legal advice, or act as employer's representatives.

Question 38Case Study

An architect is asked to certify a variation that the contractor claims was instructed orally on site. What should the architect do?

  1. Confirm the instruction in writing and assess it under the contract's variation provisions Correct answer.
  2. Certify the variation immediately based on the contractor's recollection
  3. Reject the claim because oral instructions are never valid
  4. Ask the Building Authority to decide whether the variation is valid

Explanation

The architect should confirm the instruction in writing and then evaluate it under the contract's variation procedures. Oral instructions may be valid if later confirmed, but immediate certification without assessment is inappropriate.

Question 39Case Study

Which of the following best describes the architect's responsibility regarding the building contract programme?

  1. The architect guarantees that the contractor will complete on time
  2. The architect monitors progress and may grant extensions of time but does not guarantee the contractor's programme Correct answer.
  3. The architect must approve every subcontractor's programme before work starts
  4. The architect is responsible for preparing the contractor's detailed construction programme

Explanation

The architect monitors progress and administers extension of time provisions but does not guarantee timely completion or prepare the contractor's programme. The contractor is responsible for its own programme.

Question 40Case Study

In a Hong Kong project, what is the primary purpose of a 'site supervision plan' submitted to the Building Authority?

  1. To detail the contractor's method statement for temporary works
  2. To record the architect's fee payment schedule
  3. To list the names of all subcontractors on site
  4. To set out the supervision requirements and responsibilities for ensuring compliance with the Buildings Ordinance Correct answer.

Explanation

A site supervision plan outlines the supervision framework, including personnel and procedures, to ensure works comply with the Ordinance. It is not a method statement, fee schedule, or subcontractor list.

Question 41Case Study

An architect is preparing a final account. Which of the following should be included?

  1. The contractor's expected profit on future projects
  2. The architect's own professional fees
  3. Only the original contract sum
  4. All variations, adjustments, and amounts certified in interim certificates Correct answer.

Explanation

The final account reconciles the contract sum with all variations, adjustments, and interim payments. It does not include future profit or the architect's fees.

Question 42Case Study

What is the architect's duty if the contractor proposes to use a material substitution that differs from the specification?

  1. Automatically accept any substitution proposed by the contractor
  2. Automatically reject any substitution
  3. Refer the decision to the Building Authority for approval
  4. Evaluate the proposal for compliance and performance, and instruct accordingly under the contract Correct answer.

Explanation

The architect should assess whether the proposed substitution meets the specified performance and compliance requirements, then instruct accordingly. Automatic rejection or acceptance is not proper administration.

Question 43Case Study

In Hong Kong, what is the effect of an occupation permit on a new building?

  1. It releases the contractor from all contractual obligations
  2. It transfers ownership of the building to the purchaser
  3. It certifies that the building is suitable for occupation and may be used for its intended purpose Correct answer.
  4. It guarantees that the building has no defects

Explanation

An occupation permit certifies that the building is fit for occupation under the Buildings Ordinance. It does not transfer title, guarantee freedom from defects, or release the contractor.

Question 44Case Study

An architect is reviewing a contractor's claim for loss and expense due to late provision of design information. What principle applies?

  1. The architect must automatically approve any claim for late information
  2. The contractor is never entitled to loss and expense for late information
  3. The claim must be decided by the Building Authority
  4. The contractor may recover if it can demonstrate that the late information caused delay and loss Correct answer.

Explanation

Under many contracts, the contractor can claim loss and expense if late information caused delay and financial loss, subject to notice and substantiation. Automatic approval or denial is incorrect.

Question 45Case Study

Which of the following best describes the architect's role in a design-and-build procurement compared to traditional procurement?

  1. The architect may act as the employer's agent, reviewing the contractor's design for compliance Correct answer.
  2. The architect has no role in design-and-build projects
  3. The architect prepares the detailed design for the contractor to build
  4. The architect guarantees the contractor's design will be defect-free

Explanation

In design-and-build, the contractor is responsible for design, and the architect may act as the employer's agent to review compliance. The architect does not typically prepare the detailed design or guarantee it.

Question 46Case Study

An architect notices that a contractor's site safety measures are inadequate. What is the architect's most appropriate action?

  1. Ignore the issue as safety is solely the contractor's responsibility
  2. Immediately terminate the contractor's employment
  3. Report the concern to the contractor and, if necessary, to the relevant authorities Correct answer.
  4. Continue certifying payments without addressing safety

Explanation

While the contractor is responsible for site safety, the architect should report concerns and may need to notify authorities if risks persist. Ignoring safety or terminating without contractual basis is inappropriate.

Question 47Case Study

In Hong Kong, under what circumstances might the Building Authority issue a 'dangerous building order'?

  1. When a building or part of it is considered dangerous or likely to become dangerous Correct answer.
  2. When the contractor fails to submit a programme
  3. When the employer changes the building's use without notifying the architect
  4. When the architect's fees remain unpaid

Explanation

The Building Authority can issue a dangerous building order if a building is dangerous or likely to become dangerous. Unpaid fees, missing programmes, or internal notifications are not grounds.

Question 48Case Study

An architect is assessing a contractor's claim for disruption caused by the employer's separate contractors working on site. What must the architect consider?

  1. Whether the contract entitles the contractor to claim for disruption and whether causation is established Correct answer.
  2. Whether the contractor has already been paid in full
  3. Whether the separate contractors were appointed by the architect
  4. Whether the disruption was caused by weather

Explanation

The architect must examine the contract terms and evidence of causation and loss. The appointing party and payment status are not determinative, and weather is irrelevant to this specific claim.

Question 49Case Study

What is the architect's professional obligation when becoming aware of a conflict of interest in a project?

  1. Proceed without disclosure if the conflict is minor
  2. Ask the contractor to resolve the conflict
  3. Resign immediately without explanation
  4. Disclose the conflict promptly to the client and take steps to avoid or manage it Correct answer.

Explanation

Architects must disclose conflicts of interest to clients and manage them appropriately. Proceeding without disclosure or abruptly resigning without explanation is unprofessional.

Question 50Case Study

In administering a contract, how should the architect treat a contractor's request for consent to subcontract part of the works?

  1. Refer the request to the Building Authority for approval
  2. Automatically refuse all subcontracting requests
  3. Consider the request under the contract and consent only if the subcontractor is suitable and the contract permits Correct answer.
  4. Automatically approve all subcontracting requests

Explanation

The architect should assess the request according to the contract's subcontracting provisions and the suitability of the proposed subcontractor. Automatic approval or refusal is improper.