Professional Practice Architecture Practice Test

Who is responsible for checking the Shop Drawings submitted for a project?

1. Contractor

2. Architect

3. Engineer

4. Supplier

The correct answer is: Supplier

In a construction project, the review of shop drawings is primarily the responsibility of the architect. Shop drawings are detailed drawings produced by the contractor or subcontractor that illustrate how specific components of the work will be fabricated and installed. The architect must ensure that the shop drawings comply with the contract documents and the overall design intent. This review process involves checking dimensions, materials, and other details to confirm that they adhere to the specifications agreed upon in the project planning phase. The architect's approval is vital as it affects both the aesthetics and functionality of the project. While the contractor is involved in producing and submitting the shop drawings, and engineers may also review them for particular systems (like structural, mechanical, or electrical), the ultimate responsibility for ensuring that they meet the design criteria lies with the architect. Suppliers may create shop drawings for the products they supply, but they typically work under the contractor's direction and do not hold the responsibility for overall compliance with the project’s design.