What is the owner's responsibility during the post construction phase?

The owner's responsibility during the post-construction phase primarily involves accepting responsibility for the operation of the completed project. This means that the owner is accountable for how the building or system functions once it has been turned over from the construction team. This includes understanding the operational aspects of the facility, monitoring performance, and addressing any issues that arise during the initial periods of occupancy.

During this phase, the owner must ensure that the facility meets their operational needs and that any early operational challenges are resolved. This is a critical role, as effective operation directly impacts the success of the project and can influence maintenance strategies, training for staff, and long-term project sustainability.

While finalizing the punch list is an important aspect of the transition from construction to operation, it is typically more of a contractor's responsibility rather than the owner's. Similarly, ensuring design integrity belongs more to the design team and project managers, and preparing construction documents is primarily a pre-construction responsibility. Therefore, accepting responsibility for the operation encapsulates a broader, more integral role that the owner plays after construction is complete.