You are reviewing a site plan that shows a building setback of 25 feet from the property line, but the local zoning requires 30 feet. The architect insists the plan is correct. What is your best course of action?
Correct Answer
B) Contact the local building department to verify requirements
When there's a discrepancy between plans and local requirements, the general contractor should verify the actual requirements with the local building department before proceeding. Local zoning requirements typically take precedence.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
When discrepancies exist between architectural plans and local zoning requirements, the general contractor must verify the actual requirements with the local building department. This is the only way to obtain authoritative clarification and ensure compliance. Local zoning ordinances are legally binding and typically supersede architectural drawings. The building department can clarify if variances exist, if the architect has special approval, or if the plans need correction before construction begins.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Split the difference and use a 27.5-foot setback
Splitting the difference between conflicting requirements is not a valid solution. Building codes and zoning requirements are legal mandates that cannot be arbitrarily modified. A 27.5-foot setback would still violate the 30-foot zoning requirement and could result in code violations, stop-work orders, or required demolition.
Option C: Proceed with construction and address it if the inspector finds it
Proceeding with construction knowing there's a potential code violation is negligent and risky. This approach could result in expensive corrections, demolition, legal issues, and project delays. It's the contractor's responsibility to ensure compliance before construction begins, not after problems are discovered.
Option D: Follow the architect's plan since they are the design professional
While architects are design professionals, they can make errors or may not be fully current on local zoning requirements. The contractor has an independent duty to verify code compliance. Blindly following plans without verification when discrepancies are known could make the contractor liable for code violations.
Memory Technique
Remember 'When in DOUBT, CHECK it OUT' - always verify conflicting requirements with the building department before proceeding.
More Project Mgmt Questions
What is the minimum R-value required for wall insulation in Florida Climate Zone 2?
A subcontractor brings a new chemical product to your jobsite. Under the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), what information must be immediately available to workers?
A construction site has a trench that is 8 feet deep in Type B soil. What is the maximum allowable slope ratio for the trench walls without protective systems?
What is the maximum recommended spacing between drywall screws when attaching to wood studs?
Your crew discovers suspected asbestos-containing materials during a renovation project. What is the first action you should take?
A scaffold platform is 12 feet long and 5 feet wide. If the maximum load capacity is 25 pounds per square foot, what is the total weight capacity of this platform?
Which CSI MasterFormat Division would contain specifications for fire-stopping and firesafing materials?
In tilt-up concrete construction, what is the primary advantage of this method over conventional cast-in-place construction?
Which OSHA standard specifically addresses construction industry safety and health regulations?
A structural drawing shows a beam labeled 'W12x26'. What does the '26' represent?
People Also Study
Business & Financial Management
120 questions · 70% to pass
Contract Administration
60 questions · 70% to pass