What is the primary duty of the Architect during the construction phase?

The primary duty of the Architect during the construction phase is to review work for compliance with the Contract Documents. This role involves ensuring that the construction aligns with the plans, specifications, and standards set forth in the contract. The Architect is responsible for monitoring the quality of work and addressing any discrepancies or issues that may arise during construction. This obligation to review helps to maintain the integrity of the design and ensure that the project meets all relevant codes and regulations.

By focusing on compliance with the Contract Documents, the Architect also plays a vital role in safeguarding the client’s investment and ensuring that the project fulfills its intended purpose. This constant oversight may involve conducting site visits, evaluating materials and craftsmanship, and collaborating with the Contractor to resolve any problems that surface.

In this context, while communication between the Contractor and the Owner is important, it is not the sole focus of the Architect's responsibilities. Managing site inspections is part of the Architect's duties, but it does not encompass the entire scope of their role, which is fundamentally about ensuring that construction adheres to the design intent and contractual requirements. Additionally, designing new features during the construction phase is usually outside the Architect's primary responsibilities, as changes to the design should typically be carefully evaluated and documented through formal change orders.