Performance of a design-build project

A small district library retained the authors' consulting firm to perform a condition assessment of a single story facility that had been renovated from a grocery store some eight years prior to the assessment. To perform the renovation, the library staff entered into a design-build arrangement with a local contractor and their affiliated architect. The document review uncovered evidence of design errors, code violations and a general lack of appropriate detailing. The condition assessment revealed improper material selections, incorrect system installations and overall low quality workmanship. The inexperience of the library board, coupled with a contractor-architect partnership that did not provide for checks and balances, fostered a situation where the owner's interests weren't represented and industry standards of care and quality were not met. Retaining an independent professional consultant to review project documents, assist with contractor procurement, and provide quality assurance during construction would have better served the owner's interests and likely saved them money in the long run. Copyright ASCE 2006.