BLOGClerk of the Works (Owners Construction Representative)
The Clerk of the Works is a key member of any building team. As the clerk we serve as the owner's on-site representative on a day to day basis. We will maintain a holistic view of the project, while appreciating the details of various parts of the work.
A key point is, that as the clerk, our loyalty is only to the owner !
We do not attempt to fill the role of the design team, construction manager/general contractor, construction superintendent, safety officer, or any other member of the building team.
Below is a list of typical responsibilities and some of our qualifications.
As owner’s agent,
- coordinate and participate in internal pre- and post-construction meetings to ensure all construction issues are identified and completed to owner’s specifications.
- resolve issues encountered and implement corrective actions;
- initiate, lead, and document communication with owner/ and contractors personnel involved in construction which includes written concurrence relative to milestones and timelines. (includes obtaining owners agreement and signature on all change orders, drawings and estimates, before construction starts)
- Ensure proper turnaround time expectations are set and met with both owner and contractor
- Request final site drawings.
- Coordinate the owners acceptance with the contractors teams
We have a;
- Broad general understanding of current construction practices, methods, and materials.
- Broad knowledge of building codes. Ability to successfully research specific building code questions.
- General knowledge of major building systems and how they work.
- Ability to read and understand construction drawings, specifications, and contracts.
- Ability to understand the results of material testing and sampling.
- Ability to understand warranties and conditions which invalidate those warranties.
- Knowledge of techniques for construction scheduling.
- Knowledge of construction site administration.
- Thorough knowledge of the roles and interactions of the members of the building team.
- Thorough knowledge of construction financing and accounting.
- Thorough knowledge of construction site safety requirements.
- Familiarity with proper procedures for handling and storing hazardous materials.
- Familiarity with environmental laws and concerns.
- Excellent interpersonal communications skills.
- Basic writing and computer skills.
- Ability to constructively participate in dispute resolution.
- Ability to provide impromptu briefings and reports to visitors and inspectors concerning the status of construction and ongoing activities.
As the clerk we may be an employee of the owner, or under contract with the owner. Responsibilities may vary from one project to another and from one owner to another.
Our authority must be specifically delegated in writing by the owner.
In order to preserve objectivity, Our fee cannot be affected in any way by decisions made in the course of construction.
We must be covered by the owner's insurance or have our own general comprehensive liability insurance and accident insurance.
Grant Sheehan CEO
Sheehan's Consulting LLC.
3741 DeGarmo Lane
Miami, FL 33133
305-951-3306
