Inspection Methodology

Situation:

A: Hired by the owner as an on-site representative

B: Responsibility also to:
1. Architect and his engineers
2. City, County and/or State Agency

Work Summary:

On-Site Inspector has three bosses, he/she must listen to owner's requests, wants, and needs, coordinates these with the architect, all under requirement of public governing agency. In no case will he/she allow instructions of the architect or engineers to be a cause for work to be done which is not in conformity with the approved contract documents, or governing public agency requirements.

First Step - After Project Assignment:

Understand and set up an approved record keeping and reporting system. Inspector should study all contract documents and become familiar with project requirements. Obtain an understanding of how the general contractor and his staff propose to operate.

Second Step:

Set up good working relationship with the three bosses and general contractor, including contact person for each. Allow quick notification when problems or questions arise. Work out an approved schedule for project progress meetings. Very important.

Third Step:

Be familiar with approved material submittals and scheduling to allow him to alert the architect of problems as soon as possible, including checking all materials arriving on-site for conformance. Point out through second step liaison any scheduling problems.

Fourth Step:

Understand general contractor's payment request format and check format and check for accuracy before it goes to the architect and owner for payment. This should include labor, materials and percentage of completion, thus keep down the possibility of over billing by the general contractor.