Michigan Residential Builders License Practice Test

Who is responsible for changes in conditions during a project?

1. The contractor

2. The owner

3. The architect

4. The subcontractor

The correct answer is: The owner

In construction projects, the owner is typically responsible for changes in conditions that arise during the course of the project. This responsibility stems from the owner's role in defining the project scope, budget, and design parameters. When unexpected conditions are discovered, such as site conditions that were not anticipated, it is usually up to the owner to decide how to address those changes, which could involve approving additional funds or altering the project timeline. This aligns with the contractual relationships established at the beginning of the project, where the owner assumes the risk associated with the property's inherent conditions and is responsible for making decisions on how to proceed when unforeseen issues arise. Therefore, recognizing that the owner holds this pivotal role in managing changes during a project emphasizes their influence over the project's adjustments and overall direction.