California IDEX Practice Exam

Who should pay for additional installation costs if a contractor includes a window where walls were specified?

1. Contractor

2. Owner

3. Architect

4. Interior designer

The correct answer is: Contractor

The contractor is typically responsible for adhering to the specifications laid out in the contract, which, in this case, indicates that walls were to be installed rather than windows. If the contractor introduces additional elements such as a window instead of following the agreed-upon design, the costs associated with that addition would generally fall on them, as it deviates from the original plan without prior approval from the owner or designer. This underscores the importance of maintaining clear communication and adherence to contractual obligations in construction projects. The financial responsibility remains with the contractor when they make unilateral decisions that lead to variations from the established plans unless there is an amendment or additional agreement in place that allows for such changes and communicates costs and responsibilities effectively.