Construction Administration
Construction administration (CA) is the architect’s role once building starts, and it’s where a design either holds together or quietly erodes. At Aligned Architecture, our involvement doesn’t end when the permit is issued. During construction we visit the site, answer contractor questions (RFIs), review shop drawings and submittals, and evaluate change orders, so the building that gets built is the one you approved.
Because we often bring the contractor in early through CMGC delivery, many questions are settled before ground breaks, and construction becomes a continuation of a working relationship rather than a hand-off. Construction administration is part of nearly every project we take on, from custom homes and ADUs to affordable housing, commercial tenant improvements and University of Oregon renovations, and we stay with you through the punch list and closeout.
Services Include:
- Construction observation and periodic site visits
- Responses to contractor requests for information (RFIs)
- Shop drawing and submittal review
- Change order review and documentation
- Field reports and owner updates
- Punch list and project closeout
- CMGC delivery coordination
FAQ
What is construction administration?
It’s the architect’s work during construction: observing progress, answering the contractor’s questions, reviewing submittals and changes, and making sure what’s built matches the drawings and specifications.
Is construction administration the same as construction management?
No. Construction administration is the architect’s design-side role. Construction management is the contractor’s job of running the work day to day, including scheduling, crews and subcontractors. On a CMGC project, the contractor manages construction and we administer the design.
Do I really need my architect during construction?
It isn’t required, but cutting it is a common way to save a fee and lose more later. Substitutions, field changes and misread details are cheapest to catch while they’re happening.
Is construction administration included in your fee?
On most projects, yes; it’s part of our standard scope along with architectural, sustainable and interior design.
Can you help me choose a contractor?
Yes. We’ll help you select a contractor in a way that supports the best value, the quickest delivery and a collaborative process, often through CMGC.