CSLB Contractor's Law & Business Practice Exam

What should a contractor do if the owner claims something completed was not done correctly during a critical phase?

1. Stop all work immediately

2. Attain clarification while continuing critical work

3. Ignore the owner until later

4. Seek legal advice

The correct answer is: Attain clarification while continuing critical work

Choosing to attain clarification while continuing critical work is the most effective approach for a contractor when an owner claims that something completed was not done correctly during a critical phase. This response ensures that the project can maintain its timeline and keeps the workflow steady, which is crucial in critical phases where work interdependencies often exist. By seeking clarification, the contractor opens a line of communication, demonstrating professionalism and a willingness to address concerns directly. This can prevent misunderstandings from escalating and allows for the possibility of resolving issues on-site with minimal disruption. Moreover, continuing with critical work while addressing the owner's concerns also helps to minimize delays that could result from stopping work entirely. Such delays can lead to increased costs, complications in scheduling, and may further aggravate the owner. This approach also reflects a proactive stance in project management, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and problem-solving on-site. By engaging with the owner constructively, the contractor can ensure that any necessary adjustments can be made without derailing the entire project.