The architect, whose decision is final, will decide disputes concerning questions of fact arising under the contract.

The architect, whose decision is final, will decide disputes concerning questions of fact arising under the contract.

• A. The owner
• B. The contractor
• C. The engineer
• D. The architect

Answer: (D)

Disputes of fact on a construction project are typically resolved by the architect, who acts as the contract administrator in many standard contracts. The architect is designated to interpret the contract and decide factual questions that arise about performance, compliance, changes, and entitlement. When the architect’s determination is labeled final, it means that binding decision applies to the project unless the contract provides a different appeals path or dispute mechanism. The owner, contractor, and engineer may be consulted or involved, but they do not hold the final say on factual questions in these standard arrangements. Hence, the architect is the appropriate choice.

Disputes of fact on a construction project are typically resolved by the architect, who acts as the contract administrator in many standard contracts. The architect is designated to interpret the contract and decide factual questions that arise about performance, compliance, changes, and entitlement. When the architect’s determination is labeled final, it means that binding decision applies to the project unless the contract provides a different appeals path or dispute mechanism. The owner, contractor, and engineer may be consulted or involved, but they do not hold the final say on factual questions in these standard arrangements. Hence, the architect is the appropriate choice.