Reviewing and Approving Shop Drawings and Submittals

In the construction administration phase, a crucial task is reviewing and approving shop drawings and submittals from the contractor. These documents provide detailed information on the materials, equipment, and systems to be used in your custom home project, ensuring that they meet the specifications outlined in the construction documents. Keep track of these decisions with an EcoHome project or your own notebook, but make sure you record everything important.

The architect or project manager plays a critical role in this process, carefully reviewing these documents and providing feedback, requesting revisions, or approving them as necessary. This step ensures that everything is in line with the project requirements and your expectations.

Here are some key steps to effectively review and approve shop drawings and submittals for your custom home project:

1. Understand the purpose of shop drawings and submittals: Shop drawings and submittals are technical documents that provide a more detailed look at specific components of your custom home, such as windows, doors, cabinetry, and HVAC systems. These documents often include product specifications, dimensions, installation instructions, and sometimes even sample materials. Reviewing these documents helps ensure that the proposed materials and systems align with your design and performance expectations.

2. Establish a submittal review process: Work with your architect or designer to establish a clear process for reviewing and approving shop drawings and submittals. This process should outline who is responsible for reviewing the documents, the timeframe for review, and the method for providing feedback and approval. Having a well-defined process in place will help prevent delays and ensure that all parties are on the same page.

3. Review the documents thoroughly: Take the time to carefully review each shop drawing and submittal, paying close attention to details such as dimensions, materials, and finishes. Compare the information in the submittals to the design documents and specifications to ensure consistency and compliance. If you have questions or concerns, discuss them with your architect or designer.

4. Request revisions, if necessary: If you find discrepancies or issues with the shop drawings or submittals, request revisions from the contractor or subcontractor. Provide clear feedback on the changes needed and set a deadline for the revised documents to be submitted.

5. Approve the shop drawings and submittals: Once you're satisfied that the shop drawings and submittals meet your expectations and align with the design intent, provide your approval. This approval is crucial, as it allows the contractor and subcontractors to proceed with ordering materials and scheduling the installation.

6. Maintain a record of approved documents: Keep a well-organized record of all approved shop drawings and submittals. This documentation will be helpful in tracking the progress of your project and can be used as a reference in case any issues arise during construction or after completion.

7. Monitor the installation process: As the construction progresses, monitor the installation of the materials and systems to ensure they align with the approved shop drawings and submittals. If you notice any discrepancies, address them with your contractor immediately to prevent potential delays or additional costs.

By actively participating in the review and approval of shop drawings and submittals, you can help ensure that your custom home is built to your exact specifications and meets your expectations for quality and performance. Stay engaged and communicative with your architect, designer, and contractor throughout the process to achieve a successful outcome for your custom home project.