Construction Management & Project Planning Flashcards

A contractor discovers that a subcontractor has substituted a specified material with an alternative product without approval. What contractual right does the general contractor have?

Answer: Require removal and replacement at the subcontractor's cost

Unauthorized material substitutions breach the subcontract; the general contractor can require removal and replacement at the subcontractor's expense.

A residential contractor is evaluating project closeout tasks. Which document formally transfers responsibility for a completed construction project from the contractor to the owner?

Answer: Certificate of Substantial Completion

The Certificate of Substantial Completion formally marks the point at which the owner can occupy or use the project for its intended purpose, shifting risk and responsibility.

When preparing a project cash flow projection, which factor MOST directly affects the contractor's cash flow position early in a project?

Answer: Front-loaded vs. back-loaded schedule of values

A front-loaded schedule of values allows the contractor to bill higher amounts early in the project, improving early cash flow position.

A general contractor is coordinating multiple subcontractors on a residential project site. Which meeting type is BEST for resolving coordination conflicts between trades on a weekly basis?

Answer: Weekly subcontractor coordination meeting

Weekly subcontractor coordination meetings bring trade contractors together to resolve sequencing conflicts, share constraints, and coordinate work before problems arise in the field.

A contractor must accelerate a project to meet a revised completion date. Which schedule compression technique adds direct cost but may shorten activity durations?

Answer: Schedule crashing

Schedule crashing adds resources (overtime, additional crews, equipment) to critical path activities to shorten their duration, directly increasing project costs.

Which project management document captures all open issues, pending decisions, and action items along with their responsible parties and due dates?

Answer: Issues log (action item log)

An issues log (action item log) tracks open issues, assigns responsibility, and records due dates to ensure timely resolution throughout the project.

A residential contractor is evaluating bid risk on a project with unusual soil conditions and incomplete geotechnical reports. What is the BEST risk mitigation strategy during bidding?

Answer: Include a contingency allowance and clarify exclusions in the bid

Including a contingency allowance for unknown soil conditions and clearly stating exclusions in the bid protects the contractor while remaining competitive.