Detecting and Correcting Imperfections in Documentation
Imperfections may always be expected and it is customary for the engineer to be employed during the bidding, negotiating and construction phases in order to detect, at an early date, and correct any deficiencies. The engineer may issue addenda, review and approve shop drawings, determine the acceptability of any substitute, prepare work directive changes and make recommendations for payment…all in order to give the owner some degree of assurance (but no guarantee) that what the contractor produces is generally in accordance with the contract documents and the integrity of the design has been preserved. If the engineer is not permitted to provide these services then the owner's interest may be compromised.

What to Expect from a Resident Project Representative
The most important points to remember about the engineer's visits to the site during construction are that because he does not purport to possess the expertise of a contractor, he is not to supervise direct or control the work. His visits are limited by the constraints of time and money and the number of people assigned to the task which are all controlled by the owner. His efforts are not directed at how the work is performed but toward completed work. Often much more is expected of the design professional during construction than he is prepared or qualified to undertake. His services may be limited but of vital importance to the completion of a successful project from the owner's point of view.

What does "Conform Generally" Mean?
It means that general rather than detailed or specific observations have been made. That is about all engineers can do unless they employ a bevy of inspectors to stand behind each construction worker. In early AIA contracts the architects function during construction was described as "inspecting" the work. That word is no longer used because it connotes a greater degree of scrutiny of the work in progress than is intended.

Engineer's "Punch" List
This is a list of items to be completed or corrected before final payment. It is not intended to be all-inclusive and the failure to include an item does not relieve the contractor of his obligation to perform the work in accordance with the contract documents. The contractor should complete all the punch list items in the time between substantial completion and final payment.

Operating Within the "Four Corners" of Your Agreement
Many articles have been written and advice given illustrating the pitfalls that await the engineer should he deviate from what he has agreed to do. The most carefully worded agreement or best prepared contract will avail you naught if you literally stray outside the four corners of the agreement. Stick to what your professional training has qualified you to do and what your state license expects of you.

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