bladeyoon wrote:Hello!
There is a practice question about
'the architect typically performs a cost estimate at the end of which phases?
And the answers were 'at the end of SD and DD'.
It explains that 'the project goes to bid at the end of CD set, so architect does not need to do cost estimate'.
But, based on B101 3.4.4, "the architect shall update the estimate for the cost of the work." so I believe the architect still need to do cost estimate at the end of CD phase.
Can someone explain this for me?
Thank you!
I agree with you that the correct answer should be what is specified in the B101. For one, it is specifically spelled out in section 3.4.4 as you have noted, but also, in every phase of the design process the architect is supposed to update the estimate of the Cost of the Work along with the design for the Owner's approval up to Bidding or Negotiation Phase Services, so why wouldn't the architect do it before the Owner approves it for bidding? A key provision to consider is in section 6.7, and it states that when the estimate of the work comes in too high, "[and] the Owner chooses to proceed under section 6.6.4 (which is to VE), the Architect,
without additional compensation, shall modify the Construction Documents as necessary to comply with the Owner's budget for the Cost of the Work at the conclusion of the Construction Documents Phase Services, or the budget as adjusted under Section 6.6.1..." This section puts the risk of over budget to the Architect, and therefore it is in the Architect's interest to update that estimate for Owner's approval before it goes out to bid to minimize risk to unpaid work.
Now, I'm not sure what is the source of your practice question, but I would put my money down on the B101, since that is referenced in the NCARB study guide as part of the study material recommended for preparation of this exam.