Expert: Paul S. Brown, AIA - 6/19/2008

Question
Does plan check (with the city building dept) always require wet stamped
drawings (from architect, engineer etc...)  Is it typical to issue stamped drawing
with a "not for construction" disclaimer?  seems like architects often hesitate to
stamp drawings marked "not for construction".

Answer
Hi Siuling:
Yes. for any commercial project, the local inspector usually wants a wet-stamped drawing to review for the permit.  Sometimes, the Architect may feel like the plans have enough information for the permit review, but still need some additional work before they are ready to be released for construction.  In this case, the Architect might stamp the drawings with his/her seal, but then also stamp them to read "For Permit Review Only; Not for Construction".  In this case, sometimes the Inspector gives a conditional approval, subject to having a final review of the 'For Construction' drawings and specifications.  It's a way of allowing the process to move forward and avoid delays, when there is still a bit more design work to be done.
I hope that answers your question.
Good luck with your project.
Paul Brown