Who must document and promptly notify the contractor of any defect?

• A. A/E or Owner
• B. Contractor
• C. Subcontractor
• D. Third-party inspector

Answer: (A)

Documentation and prompt notification of defects is handled by the design professional (A/E) or the owner. In construction administration, the A/E reviews work against the contract documents and is responsible for recording discrepancies through formal reports (such as nonconformance or defect notices). They then promptly notify the contractor so corrective action can be taken under the contract. The contractor’s role is to remedy defects, but the formal identification and communication come from the A/E or owner to ensure an unbiased, documented process and proper contract follow-up. While subcontractors or third‑party inspectors may observe issues, their findings are typically reported to the A/E or owner rather than issued as the initiating defect notice to the contractor.