California IDEX Practice Exam

What could repeatedly telling a contractor how to install finishes during construction lead to?

1. A delay in project completion

2. A breach of contract

3. A third-party claim

4. A change order

The correct answer is: A third-party claim

Repeatedly telling a contractor how to install finishes during construction could lead to a third-party claim. This situation often arises from the contractor potentially feeling undermined or that their professional expertise is being disregarded, which can lead to assertions of workmanship issues or disputes about project specifications. If a subcontractor or even the owner believes that the quality of work is affected by this excessive interference, it could serve as grounds for a claim concerning the quality or suitability of the work performed. While focusing too heavily on directing how to install finishes could contribute to project delays or complicate contractual relationships, a third-party claim is particularly relevant as it ties directly to the necessity for maintaining the contractor's autonomy in their professional execution. Issues of breach of contract or change orders might emerge but would generally stem from underlying tensions or miscommunications prompted by the excessive directives. Thus, the risk of a third-party claim highlights the importance of maintaining a balance between oversight and allowing the contractor to perform their work as agreed.