Overview
Oregon law requires architects to notify both the Oregon State Board of Architect Examiners (OSBAE) and the permitting authority when required construction phase observation services will no longer be provided for a non-exempt construction project.
This page provides information regarding:
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construction phase observation requirements,
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notification responsibilities,
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when notification is required,
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and how to submit an Observation Change Notification Form.
What Is Construction Phase Observation?
Construction phase observation is part of the practice of architecture and generally includes:
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clarification or modification of technical submissions during construction, and
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observing the construction site through substantial completion to determine whether the work is proceeding generally in accordance with approved technical submissions.
Construction phase observation requirements are established under:
Architect Observation Responsibilities
Except for exempt projects, construction phase observation services must be performed:
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by a registered architect, or
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under an architect’s responsible control.
Architects and architectural firms responsible for stamped technical submissions must ensure required observation services are provided throughout the project unless proper notification is submitted.
When Notification Is Required
Architects must submit an Observation Change Notification when:
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the architect or architectural firm prepared stamped technical submissions for a non-exempt project, and
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the architect or firm will no longer provide required construction phase observation services.
Notification is required regardless of the reason observation services are discontinued.
Notification Timeline
Written notification must be submitted:
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within 10 days of the architect becoming aware that required construction phase observation services will no longer be provided.
Required Notification Information
The written notification must include:
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the project address,
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the project owner’s name,
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and notification that required construction phase observation services will no longer be provided.
Notification must be submitted to:
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the governmental authority that issued the construction permit, and
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the Oregon State Board of Architect Examiners (OSBAE).
Observation Change Notification Form
Use the Observation Change Notification Form to notify:
- OSBAE, and
- the permitting authority
when required construction phase observation services will no longer be provided for a non-exempt project.
Exempt vs. Non-Exempt Projects
Observation change notification requirements apply to:
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non-exempt construction projects.
Architects should review applicable Oregon statutes and administrative rules to determine whether a project qualifies as exempt from architect observation requirements.
Oregon Administrative Rule Reference
The official observation requirements are established under:
Registrants are encouraged to review the full administrative rule language for detailed legal requirements.