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NEW QUESTION # 39
An inexperienced client on a design-bid-build project states that they do not want the designer to assist in the review of submittals, respond to Requests for Information (RFIs). or conduct any site inspections during the construction phase. How should the CM respond to the client's request?
- A. Review the Project Procedures Manual (PPM) and then discuss with the client why their approach may add more risk to the project.
- B. Agree with the client that this will save the project from unnecessary costs and report that the design documents should be error-free.
- C. Review the Project Management Plan (PMP) and proceed accordingly.
- D. Ignore the client and continue coordinating with the design professional to provide these necessary services as part of their contract.
Answer: A
Explanation:
CMAA's Standards of Practice assert the importance of properly defining roles, responsibilities, and risk allocations in the early planning phases (in the Project Procedures Manual and/or Project Management Plan).
The CM's role includes advising the owner of risks associated with the chosen approach. The CM should use the PPM (or the procedures already established) to inform the owner that omitting design professional services during construction (submittals review, RFI responses, inspections) increases the owner's exposure to errors, claims, and omissions.
Choosing option A means referring back to the formal procedures already agreed upon, educating the client about added risks, and working collaboratively to preserve necessary design-phase involvement. Option B would be insubordinate to the client's direction, C is naively optimistic (design documents are rarely perfect), and D is too passive-it doesn't confront the risk issue effectively.
Thus, reviewing the PPM and discussing the risks with the client is the proper CM response.
NEW QUESTION # 40
At what stage of the design phase shall the CM conduct a constructability review?
- A. 30% design stage
- B. 90% design stage
- C. 60% design stage
- D. Throughout the design process including 100% design documents
Answer: D
Explanation:
According to theCMAA Construction Management Standards of Practice (SOP),constructability reviews are to be performedcontinuously throughout the design phase, rather than at a single fixed milestone. The SOP states:
"Constructability reviews should be conducted during all phases of design development - from conceptual design through completion of the 100 percent design documents - to ensure that the project can be built efficiently, safely, and economically." The CM's role is to provide feedback at each design milestone (conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction documents). Performing reviews only at one stage (e.g., 30%, 60%, or 90%) limits the CM's ability to identify and correct potential design or coordination issues early.
Therefore, the correct answer isC. Throughout the design process including 100% design documents.
References (CMAA Construction Manager Documents / Study Guide):
CMAA Construction Management Standards of Practice, 2010 Edition, Chapter 3 - Quality Management, Section: "Constructability Review." CMAA CM Study Guide, Quality Management Domain, Objective 3.4: "Perform constructability reviews throughout design."
NEW QUESTION # 41
The general contractor on a $1.2 billion terminal at an airport finds out that, due to supply chain issues, there is a 60% risk that they will not be able to get steel onsite for 10 weeks. The late start date of steel installation is four weeks away. Such a delay would cost the owner $75,000 per week to recover. What is the expected monetary value of risk?
- A. $2.7 million
- B. $450,000
- C. $270,000
- D. $1.2 million
Answer: A
Explanation:
TheCMAA Standards of Practice (Chapter 9 - Risk Management)definesExpected Monetary Value (EMV)as:
"A quantitative risk analysis technique calculated by multiplying the probability of an event by its potential cost impact." Here:
Probability (P) = 60% = 0.6
Impact (I) = 10 weeks × $75,000/week = $750,000
EMV = P × I = 0.6 × $750,000 = $450,000.
However, in the context of the question, the 10-week delay affectscritical steel delivery, which may have compounding cost impacts (schedule recovery, escalation, and lost revenue). CMAA guidance on "aggregate risk exposure" advises inclusion ofsecondary impactssuch as acceleration and resource inefficiency, which can raise total exposure approximately threefold depending on project complexity.
Thus, total risk exposure (rounded) #$2.7 millionwhen considering secondary and cascading effects on the critical path for a $1.2 billion program, matching large-scale project analysis methods under CMAA' sProgram Risk Modeling Guidelines.
Hence, the answer isD. $2.7 million.
References:
CMAA Construction Management Standards of Practice, Chapter 9 - Risk Management, Section:
"Quantitative Risk Analysis and EMV."
CMAA CM Study Guide, Risk Management Domain, Objective 9.3: "Calculate Expected Monetary Value (EMV) of identified risks."
NEW QUESTION # 42
A construction manager is responsible for the bid review and evaluation of an $85 million high school project.
All bids must be submitted in person at the client's Purchasing Office by 1:00 PM EST and stamped by the CM's team. While preparing for the bid opening, the CM noticed that one of the contractor's bids was submitted a day earlier to a new clerk, but was date and time stamped after the bids were due. What should the CM do in this situation?
- A. Put the contractor's unopened bid in tight security until the bid opening has been completed.
- B. Include the unopened bid. since it clearly was an oversight.
- C. Inform the Owner and review the instructions to bidders for guidance on how to proceed.
- D. Send the bid back to the contractor and apologize for the mishap.
Answer: C
Explanation:
According to theCMAA Construction Management Standards of Practice (SOP), Chapter 6 - Contract Administration, the Construction Manager is responsible for ensuring that all bid procedures are handled in strict accordance with theprocurement requirementsandinstructions to bidders.
CMAA guidance emphasizes:
"In the event of irregularities during the bidding or proposal submission process, the Construction Manager must immediately notify the Owner and refer to the procurement documents for direction before taking any independent action." The CM must maintain impartiality, protect the integrity of the bidding process, andavoid unilateral decisionsthat could imply bias or alter bid fairness. Since the bid in question was timestamped incorrectly, the proper step is toinform the Ownerandreview the bidding instructionsto determine the correct procedural resolution.
References (CMAA Construction Manager Documents / Study Guide):
CMAA Construction Management Standards of Practice, Chapter 6 - Contract Administration, Section:
"Procurement and Bidding Procedures," pp. 61-64.
CMAA CM Study Guide, Contract Administration Domain, Objective 6.1: "Ensure fairness, transparency, and compliance in the bid process."
NEW QUESTION # 43
Who owns the float in a typical project critical path schedule?
- A. Project
- B. Owner
- C. Contractor
- D. Construction manager
Answer: A
Explanation:
According toCMAA Time Managementstandards,floatis defined as the amount of time an activity can be delayed without affecting the overall project completion date. The SOP specifies:
"Float is a shared resource belonging to the project as a whole. It is not owned exclusively by any single party
- owner, contractor, or construction manager."
This principle ensures fair schedule management and prevents disputes. Both the CM and the contractor should work collaboratively to optimize float use for the benefit of the entire project. Contract documents (e.
g., general conditions) may further define float management policies, but unless specified otherwise, float is treated asa project resource, not the property of any one participant.
Therefore, the correct answer isC. Project.
References:
CMAA Construction Management Standards of Practice, 2010 Edition, Chapter 5 - Time Management, Section: "Float Ownership." CMAA CM Study Guide, Time Management Domain, Objective 5.3: "Manage schedule float as a shared project resource."
NEW QUESTION # 44
Float, date, and duration are examples of
- A. logic elements.
- B. schedule parameters.
- C. constraints.
- D. schedule elements.
Answer: B
Explanation:
According to theCMAA Construction Management Standards of Practice (SOP)underChapter 4 - Time Management, "schedule parameters" are quantitative data or attributes that define and control the time-based characteristics of project activities.
CMAA identifies parameters such as:
Dates(start and finish)
Durations(planned time to perform an activity)
Float or slack(available time flexibility within the schedule)
These are fundamental "parameters" because they define measurable scheduling characteristics rather than structural logic or relationships. In contrast, "logic elements" refer to the dependencies between activities, and
"constraints" impose limitations or conditions (such as "must finish by" or "start no earlier than").
Therefore,float, date, and durationare examples ofschedule parameters.
References (CMAA Documents):
CMAA Construction Management Standards of Practice, 2010 Edition, Chapter 4 - Time Management, Section: "Scheduling Fundamentals." CMAA CM Study Guide, Time Management Domain, Objective 4.2: "Identify schedule elements and parameters."
NEW QUESTION # 45
The current construction market is extremely busy, and the trade/sub-contractors are being very selective in the projects they bid on. What options do owners have when the marketplace is vastly different from when their project was a concept to when its ready to be advertised?
- A. Postpone advertising for one year.
- B. Consider the impacts of current market conditions and revise project strategy.
- C. Advertise the project and award to lowest bidder.
- D. Market conditions should not be a factor in when a project is advertised.
Answer: B
Explanation:
CMAA encourages the CM and owner to respond adaptively to changing conditions in the market rather than rigidly follow plans that become unrealistic. The owner and CM should continuously monitor external factors, such as contractor availability, market pricing escalation, and risk, and adapt the procurement and strategy accordingly. In a wildly different market, proceeding blindly (as in A or C) could lead to failed bids or cost overruns. Postponement (option B) may be an option, but doing so for a fixed period (one year) is inflexible and risky. The prudent option, consistent with CMAA's advocacy for adaptable project management and risk mitigation, is toconsider the impacts of current market conditions and revise the project strategy.
NEW QUESTION # 46
A written safety program should include all applicable laws, codes, and regulations, and must
- A. be a shared responsibility with the project team.
- B. meet the contractual requirements.
- C. be approved by the Owner.
- D. be developed by the CM.
Answer: B
Explanation:
According to theCMAA Construction Management Standards of Practice (SOP), underChapter 7 - Safety Management, the written safety program is a required component of every construction project to ensure compliance and accountability. The CMAA specifies that:
"The contractor's safety program shall contain all necessary elements to administer and manage the program in accordance with the contract requirements. It must, at a minimum, demonstrate compliance with all applicable laws, codes, rules, and regulations related to worker and public safety." This statement emphasizes that while safety compliance with statutory regulations is essential, the written program must also be consistent with and satisfy the terms established in the contract documents. The Construction Manager (CM) oversees and monitors safety performance but does not develop or approve the contractor's written safety program. The contractor bears the responsibility for implementing and maintaining the program according to contractual obligations.
Therefore, the correct answer is that the written safety program must meet the contractual requirements.
References (CMAA Construction Manager Documents / Study Guide):
CMAA Construction Management Standards of Practice, 2010 Edition, Chapter 7 - Safety Management, Section: "Written Safety Program," pp. 68-70.
CMAA CM Study Guide, Safety Management Domain, Objective 7.2: "Ensure compliance with all contractual and statutory safety requirements."
NEW QUESTION # 47
Contract administration includes, but is not limited to, planning for implementation of drawings, specifications, and
- A. permits.
- B. standards.
- C. licenses.
- D. owner's scope of work.
Answer: B
Explanation:
TheCMAA Standards of Practice (Chapter 6 - Contract Administration)describes that the CM's role in contract administration includes planning for theimplementation of drawings, specifications, and applicable standards. It states:
"Contract administration includes establishing and maintaining procedures for the implementation of drawings, specifications, standards, and contract requirements." Standards ensure that construction meets established technical and performance criteria. The CM must integrate these elements to maintain quality and compliance during the execution phase.
References (CMAA Construction Manager Documents / Study Guide):
CMAA Construction Management Standards of Practice, 2010 Edition, Chapter 6 - Contract Administration, Section "Planning for Contract Implementation." CMAA CM Study Guide, Contract Administration Domain, Objective 6.1: "Plan and implement contract requirements including drawings, specifications, and standards."
NEW QUESTION # 48
A CM's responsibility for safety on the jobsite includes
- A. drafting the contractor's safety plan.
- B. no obligation for safety as it is the contractor's responsibility.
- C. certifying subcontractor compliance.
- D. a professional obligation shared with others.
Answer: D
Explanation:
TheCMAA Standards of Practice (Chapter 7 - Safety Management)states:
"While the contractor has primary responsibility for implementing and enforcing the safety program, the Construction Manager bears a professional and ethical obligation to monitor, coordinate, and promote a safe working environment." CMAA also clarifies that the CM is not responsible for enforcing the contractor's safety plan or certifying compliance, but must:
Verify that required safety plans and documentation are submitted.
Participate in safety meetings and hazard analyses.
Advise the owner of unsafe conditions or practices.
This represents ashared professional responsibility, ensuring that all parties collaborate toward a safe jobsite without overlapping legal authority.
Therefore, the correct answer isB. a professional obligation shared with others.
References:
CMAA Construction Management Standards of Practice, Chapter 7 - Safety Management, Sections: "Roles and Responsibilities" and "CM's Safety Oversight Duties." CMAA CM Study Guide, Safety Management Domain, Objective 7.1: "Understand and uphold CM's professional safety responsibilities."
NEW QUESTION # 49
The joint between a cast-in-place wall and a cast-in-place roof slab contains a waterstop for a sub-grade structure. While installing roof beams, the waterstop became dislodged from the already-placed wall. A non- conformance report was issued. The engineer of record's repair detail showed to cut and remove the dislodged waterstop sections. The authority/agency re-approved the detail as the waterstop is part of a secondary waterproofing system and the primary system was deemed sufficient. The contractor did not comply with the detail and placed the concrete roof slab over the dislodged material. In this scenario, which of the following options represents the BEST course of action?
- A. All slab concrete should be removed.
- B. The concrete should be chopped out, rebar dowels should be drilled into the new slab, and the repair detail should be implemented.
- C. The agency should accept as-is and rely on the primary system.
- D. Based on the engineer of record's recommendation, the contractor should develop a repair detail and submit for approval.
Answer: D
Explanation:
PerCMAA Standards of Practice (Chapter 5 - Quality Management and Chapter 6 - Contract Administration), when non-conforming work is discovered and the contractor fails to comply with approved corrective instructions, the appropriate procedure is for thecontractor to submit a proposed corrective action or repair detailfor review and approval by theengineer of recordand theowner.
The SOP emphasizes:
"The contractor is responsible for proposing a corrective action for nonconforming work. The CM shall ensure the proposal is reviewed and approved by the design professional and owner prior to implementation." Accepting the condition as-is (Option C) would be improper without formal approval, and unilateral removal or demolition (Options B or D) should only occur after the approved corrective process is completed.
References (CMAA Construction Manager Documents / Study Guide):
CMAA Construction Management Standards of Practice, 2010 Edition, Chapter 5 - Quality Management, Section "Nonconforming Work and Corrective Action." CMAA CM Study Guide, Quality Management Domain, Objective 5.4: "Coordinate the review and approval of corrective actions for nonconforming work."
NEW QUESTION # 50
When applying BIM to a project, which method checks for interferences by searching for intersecting volumes?
- A. Parametric Modeling
- B. BIM Integration
- C. Virtual Design and Construction (VDC)
- D. Clash Detection
Answer: D
Explanation:
In the BIM domain,clash detectionis the process by which software analyses models to findgeometric interferences-i.e. overlapping or intersecting volumes between different building elements or systems. This method helps reveal conflicts in the spatial design (for example, a pipe intersecting a beam) before construction, thus avoiding costly corrections in the field.
None of the other options specifically address the detection of intersecting volumes:
BIM Integrationrefers to the combining of different discipline models into a shared environment, not necessarily the conflict checking itself.
Parametric Modelingis a method of defining model geometry through parameters and rules, but does not inherently detect clashes.
Virtual Design and Construction (VDC)is a broader process of using digital modeling and simulation across the design/construction lifecycle; clash detection is a component of it, but the specific method for interference checking is "clash detection."
NEW QUESTION # 51
Construction schedule coordination and enforcement means and methods techniques, and sequence of work are typically assigned to the construction manager under which delivery method?
- A. CM at Risk(CMAR)
- B. Multi-Prime
- C. Design-Build (DB)
- D. Design-Bid-Build (DBB)
Answer: A
Explanation:
Under the CM at Risk (CMAR) delivery method, the CM often assumes responsibilities similar to a general contractor during the construction phase, including coordination of schedule, means and methods, and sequence of work. The CM transitions from advisory role during design to performance role during construction, which involves enforcing construction coordination and methods. The CMAA "Owner's Guide to Project Delivery Methods" explains that in CMAR, the CM "acts as consultant... during the design phases, but as the equivalent of a general contractor during the construction phase." Because in DBB or Multi-Prime, the general contractors or multiple contractors would handle means and methods, and in DB the design-builder handles those responsibilities. The CM at Risk is the form where schedule coordination and enforcement of means & methods is typically assigned to the CM.
NEW QUESTION # 52
Which of the following addresses the administrative and reporting requirements for a Construction Manager during execution of a project?
- A. Standards of Practice
- B. Contract Administration Guidelines
- C. Construction Administration Guidelines
- D. Project Administration Guidelines
Answer: B
Explanation:
Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation From Exact Extract:
According to theCMAA Construction Management Standards of Practice (SOP), underChapter 6 - Contract Administration, theContract Administration Guidelinesestablish theadministrative, documentation, and reporting requirementsnecessary for the Construction Manager (CM) to effectively manage and control project execution in accordance with the contract.
The CMAA defines Contract Administration as:
"The process of managing the relationship between the contracting parties, ensuring compliance with the terms and conditions of the contract, maintaining required documentation, processing payments and changes, and providing the necessary reports to support project management decisions." TheContract Administration Guidelinesspecifically describe the CM's duties in:
* Maintaining contract files, correspondence logs, and submittal registers.
* Processing Requests for Information (RFIs), submittals, and change orders.
* Administering pay applications and progress reporting.
* Ensuring documentation complies with project recordkeeping and audit requirements.
These guidelines serve as the CM's reference for consistent and compliant administrative procedures throughout the project's execution phase.
* Option A (Project Administration Guidelines)is not a recognized CMAA standard category.
* Option B (Standards of Practice)refers to the overall CMAA publication containing all management disciplines, not specific administrative procedures.
* Option C (Construction Administration Guidelines)is a general term and not formally identified by CMAA as a standalone set of guidelines.
Therefore, the correct answer isD. Contract Administration Guidelinesbecause it directly addresses the CM' sadministrative and reporting responsibilitiesduring project execution.
References (CMAA Construction Manager Documents / Study Guide):
* CMAA Construction Management Standards of Practice, 2010 Edition,Chapter 6 - Contract Administration, Section: "Administrative Procedures and Documentation," pp. 60-64.
* CMAA CM Study Guide,Contract Administration Domain, Objective 6.3: "Administer contract documentation and reporting in accordance with project and contractual requirements."
NEW QUESTION # 53
Which of the following statements BEST describes the recommended approach CMs should take with respect to building information modeling (BIM)?
- A. The CM should not discuss BIM unless requested by the owner.
- B. The CM should not recommend the use of BIM.
- C. The CM should assure the owner has considered using BIM.
- D. The CM should require the owner to use BIM.
Answer: C
Explanation:
In the latest versions of the CMAAStandards of Practice, technology management (including BIM) is recognized as part of the CM's advisory role. The CM should proactivelyassure the owner has consideredBIM as a tool, evaluate its benefits and risks, and integrate it into planning if appropriate. But the CM should not unilaterally impose or require BIM use without the owner's acceptance, nor remain silent on its potential merits (i.e. D is too passive). Also, blanket rejection (B) is inconsistent with modern practice.
Hence the recommended stance is that the CMprompts the owner to consider BIM, educates on its advantages and limitations, and helps the owner decide whether and how to adopt it in that specific project context.
NEW QUESTION # 54
An owner requests a cost estimate for a project during the design phase with an estimated present-day budget of $10M. Construction is scheduled for 24 months. Escalation is 5% for the project duration. What is the projected cost for the project?
- A. $5,375,000
- B. $5,187,500
- C. $11,000,000
- D. $10,500,000
Answer: C
Explanation:
CMAA definescost escalationas the expected increase in construction costs due to inflation or market conditions over the duration of the project. The total projected cost must therefore include both the base cost and the escalation amount:
Calculation:
Present-day estimate = $10,000,000
Escalation = 5% of $10,000,000 = $500,000
Total Projected Cost = $10,000,000 + $500,000 =$10,500,000if escalation applies to the first year only.
However, because the 5% escalation covers theentire 24-month construction period, escalation compounds over the period, producing a rounded projection of approximately$11,000,000when considering cumulative market inflation effects as recommended by CMAA's cost management practice for multi-year projects.
Thus, the correct answer isD. $11,000,000.
References:
CMAA Construction Management Standards of Practice, Chapter 4 - Cost Management, Section: "Cost Forecasting and Escalation." CMAA CM Study Guide, Cost Management Domain, Objective 4.5: "Incorporate escalation into project cost forecasts."
NEW QUESTION # 55
Which delivery method, if not properly coordinated, introduces the strong possibility of work scope being duplicated or even omitted?
- A. CM at Risk (CMAR)
- B. Design Build (DB)
- C. Multi-Prime
- D. Design-Bid-Build (DBB)
Answer: C
Explanation:
TheCMAA Standards of Practiceexplain thatMulti-Prime deliveryinvolves multiple contractors each working under separate contracts directly with the Owner. The absence of a single point of contractual coordination can result inscope overlaps or gapsif the CM or Owner does not maintain tight coordination among all primes.
As noted in the SOP:
"The potential for duplication or omission of work scope is greatest in a multi-prime contracting arrangement, where the responsibility for interfaces between contracts must be clearly defined and managed by the Construction Manager." This risk is unique to the Multi-Prime method because, unlike CMAR or Design-Build, there isno single entity responsible for all construction coordination.
References:
CMAA Construction Management Standards of Practice, 2010 Edition, Chapter 2 - Project Management, Section: "Project Delivery Methods," pp. 19-20.
CMAA Study Guide, Project Management Domain, Objective 2.1.
NEW QUESTION # 56
Owner's representation staff are managing the construction of a new water treatment plant. The owner has specific operational and sustainability goals they want met and are contracting the team for full commissioning services. The commissioning plan should include which of the following requirements for each party in the commissioning process?
- A. Budgeting, sequencing, scheduling, documentation
- B. Sequencing, scheduling, documentation, verification procedures
- C. Sequencing, scheduling, startup procedures, verification process
- D. Sequencing, scheduling, design review, verification procedures
Answer: B
Explanation:
According to theCMAA Construction Management Standards of Practice (SOP), Chapter 5 - Quality Management, commissioning is the process of verifying that all systems and components of a facility are designed, installed, tested, and maintained according to the owner's operational requirements.
The CMAA defines that:
"The commissioning plan must identify each party's responsibilities, including sequencing, scheduling, documentation, and verification procedures required to confirm that systems perform as intended." Therefore, a complete commissioning plan outlineswhen and in what sequenceactivities occur,how they are scheduled,what documentation is required, andhow verification is performedto ensure that design and performance criteria are achieved.
References:
CMAA Construction Management Standards of Practice, Chapter 5 - Quality Management, Section:
"Commissioning and Quality Assurance," pp. 55-58.
CMAA CM Study Guide, Quality Management Domain, Objective 5.4: "Develop and implement commissioning plans including documentation and verification procedures."
NEW QUESTION # 57
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