If work is covered before inspection, what can the Architect require?

When work is covered before the Architect has had the opportunity to inspect it, the Architect has the authority to require that the work be uncovered at the Contractor's expense. This is an important aspect of construction practices, as it ensures that the work complies with the project specifications and standards before it is concealed.

The responsibility for ensuring that inspections occur before work is covered typically falls on the Contractor. If the Architect or a relevant authority has specified that certain work needs to be inspected, it is critical for quality assurance and adherence to design requirements. By requiring the work to be uncovered at the Contractor's expense, the Architect is emphasizing the importance of accountability and compliance in the construction process, thereby protecting the interests of both the project and the client.

In practical terms, this means that the Contractor will bear the cost of any labor and materials needed to uncover the work, as they failed to follow the required inspection protocol. This measure discourages premature covering of work and encourages compliance with the established inspection schedule.