Construction Contract Administration

Our Knowledge Community Board engages with the AIA community periodically throughout the year. During these engagements we frequently get requests for guidance or information. A recent request was to provide a field observation checklist.

While field observations need to be customized per project and respond to job specific needs to preserve and protect the design intent, there are some common things that should be reviewed in all projects.  We will be releasing a series of field observations checklists categorized by different building components.  This week's category is steel framing and decking:

• Are base plates located properly on concrete foundations (ie- centered on piers)?

• Are lintels installed at the proper elevations with kickers if shown?

• Are galvanized lintels located per spec'd locations?

• Are MEP equipment (pipe & ductwork) hangers installed properly directly to the steel frame or to intermediate support steel and not directly to the roof deck. Are drilled in wedge type expansion anchors approved for usage. Powder actuated inserts are not allowed. Punched hanger slots in decking are approved for ceiling support only?

• Notify Structural Engineers if excessive base plate shimming is ongoing.

• Are reinforcing chairs installed properly prior to composite deck pours?

• Are masonry ties welded to the structural frame at the proper locations?

We are aware that it is impossible to create a comprehensive checklist and that in the process of attempting to do so it could easily turn into a CM/General contractor's quality control manual which is not the purpose of periodic site observation. However, we are all products of our experience and there is value in sharing as a profession as a way to expand our perspective.

Are there any other considerations that should be added to the list?

Thank you in advance for your contributions.

Our Knowledge Community Board engages with the AIA community periodically throughout the year. During these engagements we frequently get requests for guidance or information. A recent request was to provide a field observation checklist.

While field observations need to be customized per project and respond to job specific needs to preserve and protect the design intent, there are some common things that should be reviewed in all projects.  We will be releasing a series of field observations checklists categorized by different building components.  This week's category is steel framing and decking:

• Are base plates located properly on concrete foundations (ie- centered on piers)?

• Are lintels installed at the proper elevations with kickers if shown?

• Are galvanized lintels located per spec'd locations?

• Are MEP equipment (pipe & ductwork) hangers installed properly directly to the steel frame or to intermediate support steel and not directly to the roof deck. Are drilled in wedge type expansion anchors approved for usage. Powder actuated inserts are not allowed. Punched hanger slots in decking are approved for ceiling support only?

• Notify Structural Engineers if excessive base plate shimming is ongoing.

• Are reinforcing chairs installed properly prior to composite deck pours?

• Are masonry ties welded to the structural frame at the proper locations?

We are aware that it is impossible to create a comprehensive checklist and that in the process of attempting to do so it could easily turn into a CM/General contractor's quality control manual which is not the purpose of periodic site observation. However, we are all products of our experience and there is value in sharing as a profession as a way to expand our perspective.

Are there any other considerations that should be added to the list?

Thank you in advance for your contributions.

The AIA's General Conditions of the Contract for Construction (A701) require the architect to: "...determine in general if the Work observed is being performed in a manner indicating that the Work, when fully completed, will be in accordance with the Contract Documents..." and further specify that: "The Architect's or Architect's representative's presence at the Project site shall not imply concurrent approval of the Work." And the AIA Owner-Architect Agreement (B101) specify: "The Architect shall not have control over, charge of, or responsibility for the construction means, methods, techniques, sequences or procedures, or for safety precautions and programs in connection with the Work, nor shall the Architect be responsible for the Contractor's failure to perform the Work in accordance with the requirements of the Contract Documents. The Architect shall be responsible for the Architect's negligent acts or omissions, but shall not have control over or charge of, and shall not be responsible for, acts or omissions of the Contractor or of any other persons or entities performing portions of the Work." [All emphasis mine.] I believe many states refer to the above in formulating a Professional Standard of Care for architects. And where the majority of architects' scope of services conform to these documents, the testimony of those architects used to establish the professional standard of care is substantially impacted by the AIA Contract Documents.

The posted checklist appears to extend every architect's scope of standard services far beyond the scope of standard services listed in the AIA Agreement and General Conditions in requiring:

·       Inspection of every weld and anchor

·       Inspection of every base plate

·       Inspection of every reinforcing chair

·       Measurement of the location of every structural member

·       Furnishing, transporting, setting up, and using the equipment necessary for the above, including ladders, scaffolding, lifts, surveying equipment, laser scanning equipment, etc. (assuming a limited interpretation of the general contractor's responsibility to provide "access to the work" required by the AIA Contract Documents)

This scope of services is far beyond the "general" review I have experienced as the architect's responsibility in CCA. In addition to expanding the scope of every architect's standard services, I believe such a checklist would have the effect of revising the professional standard of care.

If this is meant to apply only the states where this is already part of the professional standard of care, I would be interested in knowing which states are on that list. The time and effort required to inspect and measure the items in the checklist would go far beyond the design fee allocated for CCA. I have never encountered a client who was willing to pay the CCA fees this checklist would require-generally, clients endeavor to limit the architect's CCA responsibilities to reduce fees. I am also interested to know if every architect carries professional liability coverage that anticipates and covers the items in this checklist.

The checklist is represented as a list developed by the AIA CCA Knowledge Community Board. I would be interested in knowing how the committee is coordinating its work with the AIA membership and the attorneys that draft the AIA Contract Documents. I suspect the publication of this list can be used against architects by attorneys representing owners and contractors in construction contract disputes. Therefore, I see the publication of this list as a hindrance to the community, not an assistance. I would prefer to see a checklist that includes the standard scope of CCA work of AIA members, generally.

------------------------------
Sean Catherall AIA
Murray UT

Original Message:
Sent: 03-07-2025 08:28 PM
From: Tyler D. Schaffer AIA
Subject: Field Observations Checklist - Steel Framing and Decking

Our Knowledge Community Board engages with the AIA community periodically throughout the year. During these engagements we frequently get requests for guidance or information. A recent request was to provide a field observation checklist.

While field observations need to be customized per project and respond to job specific needs to preserve and protect the design intent, there are some common things that should be reviewed in all projects.  We will be releasing a series of field observations checklists categorized by different building components.  This week's category is steel framing and decking:

• Are base plates located properly on concrete foundations (ie- centered on piers)?

• Are lintels installed at the proper elevations with kickers if shown?

• Are galvanized lintels located per spec'd locations?

• Are MEP equipment (pipe & ductwork) hangers installed properly directly to the steel frame or to intermediate support steel and not directly to the roof deck. Are drilled in wedge type expansion anchors approved for usage. Powder actuated inserts are not allowed. Punched hanger slots in decking are approved for ceiling support only?

• Notify Structural Engineers if excessive base plate shimming is ongoing.

• Are reinforcing chairs installed properly prior to composite deck pours?

• Are masonry ties welded to the structural frame at the proper locations?

We are aware that it is impossible to create a comprehensive checklist and that in the process of attempting to do so it could easily turn into a CM/General contractor's quality control manual which is not the purpose of periodic site observation. However, we are all products of our experience and there is value in sharing as a profession as a way to expand our perspective.

Are there any other considerations that should be added to the list?

Thank you in advance for your contributions.

------------------------------
Tyler Schaffer AIA
LMN Architects
Seattle, WA
------------------------------

Sean - I understand your perspective but I also feel like not looking at things closely out of fear of being sued is not healthy for the profession or how our expertise is viewed by others, including clients who likely expect some level of "expertise" when it comes to site visits they are paying us to visit on their behalf. If all the architect is willing to say are things like, "studs are being installed and this jobs has stud walls and it looks like they might be in the spot we want them, but I'm not going to measure them to check because then I'm responsible" (as a bit of a facetious example) I don't think anybody would consider that valuable. An inexperienced owner could bring that level of astuteness to the site. So I'm curious what you would consider acceptable and meeting the criteria of a general observation, without crossing a line and opening up liability?  Also something to consider...we issue highly technical specs that basically tell the GC they need to comply with a multitude of requirements like the ones noted in these field lists...can't the argument be made if we are educated enough to dictate these requirements that we should capable of identifying if they are being met? I know that is a slippery slope and maybe does represent the far end of the spectrum, but thought it somewhat relevant/related to this conversation. 

Thanks for sharing your thoughts 

------------------------------
Chris Witt AIA
Jaeger, Nickola & Associates, Ltd.
Chicago IL

Original Message:
Sent: 03-10-2025 06:33 PM
From: Sean Catherall AIA
Subject: Field Observations Checklist - Steel Framing and Decking

The AIA's General Conditions of the Contract for Construction (A701) require the architect to: "...determine in general if the Work observed is being performed in a manner indicating that the Work, when fully completed, will be in accordance with the Contract Documents..." and further specify that: "The Architect's or Architect's representative's presence at the Project site shall not imply concurrent approval of the Work." And the AIA Owner-Architect Agreement (B101) specify: "The Architect shall not have control over, charge of, or responsibility for the construction means, methods, techniques, sequences or procedures, or for safety precautions and programs in connection with the Work, nor shall the Architect be responsible for the Contractor's failure to perform the Work in accordance with the requirements of the Contract Documents. The Architect shall be responsible for the Architect's negligent acts or omissions, but shall not have control over or charge of, and shall not be responsible for, acts or omissions of the Contractor or of any other persons or entities performing portions of the Work." [All emphasis mine.] I believe many states refer to the above in formulating a Professional Standard of Care for architects. And where the majority of architects' scope of services conform to these documents, the testimony of those architects used to establish the professional standard of care is substantially impacted by the AIA Contract Documents.

The posted checklist appears to extend every architect's scope of standard services far beyond the scope of standard services listed in the AIA Agreement and General Conditions in requiring:

·       Inspection of every weld and anchor

·       Inspection of every base plate

·       Inspection of every reinforcing chair

·       Measurement of the location of every structural member

·       Furnishing, transporting, setting up, and using the equipment necessary for the above, including ladders, scaffolding, lifts, surveying equipment, laser scanning equipment, etc. (assuming a limited interpretation of the general contractor's responsibility to provide "access to the work" required by the AIA Contract Documents)

This scope of services is far beyond the "general" review I have experienced as the architect's responsibility in CCA. In addition to expanding the scope of every architect's standard services, I believe such a checklist would have the effect of revising the professional standard of care.

If this is meant to apply only the states where this is already part of the professional standard of care, I would be interested in knowing which states are on that list. The time and effort required to inspect and measure the items in the checklist would go far beyond the design fee allocated for CCA. I have never encountered a client who was willing to pay the CCA fees this checklist would require-generally, clients endeavor to limit the architect's CCA responsibilities to reduce fees. I am also interested to know if every architect carries professional liability coverage that anticipates and covers the items in this checklist.

The checklist is represented as a list developed by the AIA CCA Knowledge Community Board. I would be interested in knowing how the committee is coordinating its work with the AIA membership and the attorneys that draft the AIA Contract Documents. I suspect the publication of this list can be used against architects by attorneys representing owners and contractors in construction contract disputes. Therefore, I see the publication of this list as a hindrance to the community, not an assistance. I would prefer to see a checklist that includes the standard scope of CCA work of AIA members, generally.

------------------------------
Sean Catherall AIA
Murray UT

Original Message:
Sent: 03-07-2025 08:28 PM
From: Tyler D. Schaffer AIA
Subject: Field Observations Checklist - Steel Framing and Decking

Our Knowledge Community Board engages with the AIA community periodically throughout the year. During these engagements we frequently get requests for guidance or information. A recent request was to provide a field observation checklist.

While field observations need to be customized per project and respond to job specific needs to preserve and protect the design intent, there are some common things that should be reviewed in all projects.  We will be releasing a series of field observations checklists categorized by different building components.  This week's category is steel framing and decking:

• Are base plates located properly on concrete foundations (ie- centered on piers)?

• Are lintels installed at the proper elevations with kickers if shown?

• Are galvanized lintels located per spec'd locations?

• Are MEP equipment (pipe & ductwork) hangers installed properly directly to the steel frame or to intermediate support steel and not directly to the roof deck. Are drilled in wedge type expansion anchors approved for usage. Powder actuated inserts are not allowed. Punched hanger slots in decking are approved for ceiling support only?

• Notify Structural Engineers if excessive base plate shimming is ongoing.

• Are reinforcing chairs installed properly prior to composite deck pours?

• Are masonry ties welded to the structural frame at the proper locations?

We are aware that it is impossible to create a comprehensive checklist and that in the process of attempting to do so it could easily turn into a CM/General contractor's quality control manual which is not the purpose of periodic site observation. However, we are all products of our experience and there is value in sharing as a profession as a way to expand our perspective.

Are there any other considerations that should be added to the list?

Thank you in advance for your contributions.

------------------------------
Tyler Schaffer AIA
LMN Architects
Seattle, WA
------------------------------

I believe folks are misunderstanding my response as well as Mr. Catherall's response. No one suggested that the Architect should not conduct vigorous and purposeful observations. The point is the difference between observation and inspection. Testing/inspection agencies should be employed by the Owner if such inspections are required throughout the course of the construction. Our consultants, licensed in their respective disciplines should observe the Work designed by them. Architects should thoroughly observe the Work in place and notify the Contractor as to defects observed and keep the Owner informed as the the progress of the Project.

However, we should not endeavor to perform rigorous inspections of every stud and bolt as that is not our duty or responsibility.  We should be engaged throughout the construction and should be wary of prospective clients who only want involvement at SC.

Architects should not be afraid to do their jobs out of concern for liability but should be smart and understand that if they endeavor to cross from observation to inspection in their duties or outline inspection protocols in their procedure manuals, they may be inviting an uninsurable risk that could have serious impact on the viability of their firms.

Have fun out there!

Sean - I understand your perspective but I also feel like not looking at things closely out of fear of being sued is not healthy for the profession or how our expertise is viewed by others, including clients who likely expect some level of "expertise" when it comes to site visits they are paying us to visit on their behalf. If all the architect is willing to say are things like, "studs are being installed and this jobs has stud walls and it looks like they might be in the spot we want them, but I'm not going to measure them to check because then I'm responsible" (as a bit of a facetious example) I don't think anybody would consider that valuable. An inexperienced owner could bring that level of astuteness to the site. So I'm curious what you would consider acceptable and meeting the criteria of a general observation, without crossing a line and opening up liability?  Also something to consider...we issue highly technical specs that basically tell the GC they need to comply with a multitude of requirements like the ones noted in these field lists...can't the argument be made if we are educated enough to dictate these requirements that we should capable of identifying if they are being met? I know that is a slippery slope and maybe does represent the far end of the spectrum, but thought it somewhat relevant/related to this conversation. 

Thanks for sharing your thoughts 

------------------------------
Chris Witt AIA
Jaeger, Nickola & Associates, Ltd.
Chicago IL

Original Message:
Sent: 03-10-2025 06:33 PM
From: Sean Catherall AIA
Subject: Field Observations Checklist - Steel Framing and Decking

The AIA's General Conditions of the Contract for Construction (A701) require the architect to: "...determine in general if the Work observed is being performed in a manner indicating that the Work, when fully completed, will be in accordance with the Contract Documents..." and further specify that: "The Architect's or Architect's representative's presence at the Project site shall not imply concurrent approval of the Work." And the AIA Owner-Architect Agreement (B101) specify: "The Architect shall not have control over, charge of, or responsibility for the construction means, methods, techniques, sequences or procedures, or for safety precautions and programs in connection with the Work, nor shall the Architect be responsible for the Contractor's failure to perform the Work in accordance with the requirements of the Contract Documents. The Architect shall be responsible for the Architect's negligent acts or omissions, but shall not have control over or charge of, and shall not be responsible for, acts or omissions of the Contractor or of any other persons or entities performing portions of the Work." [All emphasis mine.] I believe many states refer to the above in formulating a Professional Standard of Care for architects. And where the majority of architects' scope of services conform to these documents, the testimony of those architects used to establish the professional standard of care is substantially impacted by the AIA Contract Documents.

The posted checklist appears to extend every architect's scope of standard services far beyond the scope of standard services listed in the AIA Agreement and General Conditions in requiring:

·       Inspection of every weld and anchor

·       Inspection of every base plate

·       Inspection of every reinforcing chair

·       Measurement of the location of every structural member

·       Furnishing, transporting, setting up, and using the equipment necessary for the above, including ladders, scaffolding, lifts, surveying equipment, laser scanning equipment, etc. (assuming a limited interpretation of the general contractor's responsibility to provide "access to the work" required by the AIA Contract Documents)

This scope of services is far beyond the "general" review I have experienced as the architect's responsibility in CCA. In addition to expanding the scope of every architect's standard services, I believe such a checklist would have the effect of revising the professional standard of care.

If this is meant to apply only the states where this is already part of the professional standard of care, I would be interested in knowing which states are on that list. The time and effort required to inspect and measure the items in the checklist would go far beyond the design fee allocated for CCA. I have never encountered a client who was willing to pay the CCA fees this checklist would require-generally, clients endeavor to limit the architect's CCA responsibilities to reduce fees. I am also interested to know if every architect carries professional liability coverage that anticipates and covers the items in this checklist.

The checklist is represented as a list developed by the AIA CCA Knowledge Community Board. I would be interested in knowing how the committee is coordinating its work with the AIA membership and the attorneys that draft the AIA Contract Documents. I suspect the publication of this list can be used against architects by attorneys representing owners and contractors in construction contract disputes. Therefore, I see the publication of this list as a hindrance to the community, not an assistance. I would prefer to see a checklist that includes the standard scope of CCA work of AIA members, generally.

------------------------------
Sean Catherall AIA
Murray UT

Original Message:
Sent: 03-07-2025 08:28 PM
From: Tyler D. Schaffer AIA
Subject: Field Observations Checklist - Steel Framing and Decking

Our Knowledge Community Board engages with the AIA community periodically throughout the year. During these engagements we frequently get requests for guidance or information. A recent request was to provide a field observation checklist.

While field observations need to be customized per project and respond to job specific needs to preserve and protect the design intent, there are some common things that should be reviewed in all projects.  We will be releasing a series of field observations checklists categorized by different building components.  This week's category is steel framing and decking:

• Are base plates located properly on concrete foundations (ie- centered on piers)?

• Are lintels installed at the proper elevations with kickers if shown?

• Are galvanized lintels located per spec'd locations?

• Are MEP equipment (pipe & ductwork) hangers installed properly directly to the steel frame or to intermediate support steel and not directly to the roof deck. Are drilled in wedge type expansion anchors approved for usage. Powder actuated inserts are not allowed. Punched hanger slots in decking are approved for ceiling support only?

• Notify Structural Engineers if excessive base plate shimming is ongoing.

• Are reinforcing chairs installed properly prior to composite deck pours?

• Are masonry ties welded to the structural frame at the proper locations?

We are aware that it is impossible to create a comprehensive checklist and that in the process of attempting to do so it could easily turn into a CM/General contractor's quality control manual which is not the purpose of periodic site observation. However, we are all products of our experience and there is value in sharing as a profession as a way to expand our perspective.

Are there any other considerations that should be added to the list?

Thank you in advance for your contributions.

------------------------------
Tyler Schaffer AIA
LMN Architects
Seattle, WA
------------------------------

I don't think there are any misunderstandings, and I agree with everything you are saying. I think what this boils down to is a difference of opinion about what constitutes an inspection vs an observation. I think what I'm advocating for falls somewhere in between the two, more than "generally familiar" but short of a dedicated, very specific inspection like those required by chapter 17. I also think the fact that the real "inspections" traditionally performed by architects happen at the end of the job (substantial and final completion) so it's hard to equate what that would look like in an active job site. 

All that to say, have fun indeed!

I believe folks are misunderstanding my response as well as Mr. Catherall's response. No one suggested that the Architect should not conduct vigorous and purposeful observations. The point is the difference between observation and inspection. Testing/inspection agencies should be employed by the Owner if such inspections are required throughout the course of the construction. Our consultants, licensed in their respective disciplines should observe the Work designed by them. Architects should thoroughly observe the Work in place and notify the Contractor as to defects observed and keep the Owner informed as the the progress of the Project.

However, we should not endeavor to perform rigorous inspections of every stud and bolt as that is not our duty or responsibility.  We should be engaged throughout the construction and should be wary of prospective clients who only want involvement at SC.

Architects should not be afraid to do their jobs out of concern for liability but should be smart and understand that if they endeavor to cross from observation to inspection in their duties or outline inspection protocols in their procedure manuals, they may be inviting an uninsurable risk that could have serious impact on the viability of their firms.

Have fun out there!

Sean - I understand your perspective but I also feel like not looking at things closely out of fear of being sued is not healthy for the profession or how our expertise is viewed by others, including clients who likely expect some level of "expertise" when it comes to site visits they are paying us to visit on their behalf. If all the architect is willing to say are things like, "studs are being installed and this jobs has stud walls and it looks like they might be in the spot we want them, but I'm not going to measure them to check because then I'm responsible" (as a bit of a facetious example) I don't think anybody would consider that valuable. An inexperienced owner could bring that level of astuteness to the site. So I'm curious what you would consider acceptable and meeting the criteria of a general observation, without crossing a line and opening up liability?  Also something to consider...we issue highly technical specs that basically tell the GC they need to comply with a multitude of requirements like the ones noted in these field lists...can't the argument be made if we are educated enough to dictate these requirements that we should capable of identifying if they are being met? I know that is a slippery slope and maybe does represent the far end of the spectrum, but thought it somewhat relevant/related to this conversation. 

Thanks for sharing your thoughts 

------------------------------
Chris Witt AIA
Jaeger, Nickola & Associates, Ltd.
Chicago IL

Original Message:
Sent: 03-10-2025 06:33 PM
From: Sean Catherall AIA
Subject: Field Observations Checklist - Steel Framing and Decking

The AIA's General Conditions of the Contract for Construction (A701) require the architect to: "...determine in general if the Work observed is being performed in a manner indicating that the Work, when fully completed, will be in accordance with the Contract Documents..." and further specify that: "The Architect's or Architect's representative's presence at the Project site shall not imply concurrent approval of the Work." And the AIA Owner-Architect Agreement (B101) specify: "The Architect shall not have control over, charge of, or responsibility for the construction means, methods, techniques, sequences or procedures, or for safety precautions and programs in connection with the Work, nor shall the Architect be responsible for the Contractor's failure to perform the Work in accordance with the requirements of the Contract Documents. The Architect shall be responsible for the Architect's negligent acts or omissions, but shall not have control over or charge of, and shall not be responsible for, acts or omissions of the Contractor or of any other persons or entities performing portions of the Work." [All emphasis mine.] I believe many states refer to the above in formulating a Professional Standard of Care for architects. And where the majority of architects' scope of services conform to these documents, the testimony of those architects used to establish the professional standard of care is substantially impacted by the AIA Contract Documents.

The posted checklist appears to extend every architect's scope of standard services far beyond the scope of standard services listed in the AIA Agreement and General Conditions in requiring:

·       Inspection of every weld and anchor

·       Inspection of every base plate

·       Inspection of every reinforcing chair

·       Measurement of the location of every structural member

·       Furnishing, transporting, setting up, and using the equipment necessary for the above, including ladders, scaffolding, lifts, surveying equipment, laser scanning equipment, etc. (assuming a limited interpretation of the general contractor's responsibility to provide "access to the work" required by the AIA Contract Documents)

This scope of services is far beyond the "general" review I have experienced as the architect's responsibility in CCA. In addition to expanding the scope of every architect's standard services, I believe such a checklist would have the effect of revising the professional standard of care.

If this is meant to apply only the states where this is already part of the professional standard of care, I would be interested in knowing which states are on that list. The time and effort required to inspect and measure the items in the checklist would go far beyond the design fee allocated for CCA. I have never encountered a client who was willing to pay the CCA fees this checklist would require-generally, clients endeavor to limit the architect's CCA responsibilities to reduce fees. I am also interested to know if every architect carries professional liability coverage that anticipates and covers the items in this checklist.

The checklist is represented as a list developed by the AIA CCA Knowledge Community Board. I would be interested in knowing how the committee is coordinating its work with the AIA membership and the attorneys that draft the AIA Contract Documents. I suspect the publication of this list can be used against architects by attorneys representing owners and contractors in construction contract disputes. Therefore, I see the publication of this list as a hindrance to the community, not an assistance. I would prefer to see a checklist that includes the standard scope of CCA work of AIA members, generally.

------------------------------
Sean Catherall AIA
Murray UT

Original Message:
Sent: 03-07-2025 08:28 PM
From: Tyler D. Schaffer AIA
Subject: Field Observations Checklist - Steel Framing and Decking

Our Knowledge Community Board engages with the AIA community periodically throughout the year. During these engagements we frequently get requests for guidance or information. A recent request was to provide a field observation checklist.

While field observations need to be customized per project and respond to job specific needs to preserve and protect the design intent, there are some common things that should be reviewed in all projects.  We will be releasing a series of field observations checklists categorized by different building components.  This week's category is steel framing and decking:

• Are base plates located properly on concrete foundations (ie- centered on piers)?

• Are lintels installed at the proper elevations with kickers if shown?

• Are galvanized lintels located per spec'd locations?

• Are MEP equipment (pipe & ductwork) hangers installed properly directly to the steel frame or to intermediate support steel and not directly to the roof deck. Are drilled in wedge type expansion anchors approved for usage. Powder actuated inserts are not allowed. Punched hanger slots in decking are approved for ceiling support only?

• Notify Structural Engineers if excessive base plate shimming is ongoing.

• Are reinforcing chairs installed properly prior to composite deck pours?

• Are masonry ties welded to the structural frame at the proper locations?

We are aware that it is impossible to create a comprehensive checklist and that in the process of attempting to do so it could easily turn into a CM/General contractor's quality control manual which is not the purpose of periodic site observation. However, we are all products of our experience and there is value in sharing as a profession as a way to expand our perspective.

Are there any other considerations that should be added to the list?

Thank you in advance for your contributions.

------------------------------
Tyler Schaffer AIA
LMN Architects
Seattle, WA
------------------------------