If the contractor is to provide architectural or engineering services for the project, may he do so without a licensed professional?

• A. Yes, such services may be provided by any individual.
• B. No, the services must be provided by a licensed professional whose signature and seal appear on the drawings, calculations, specifications, certifications, shop drawings and other submittals.
• C. Only for interior design.
• D. Only if the owner approves.

Answer: (B)

Professional design work requires licensure. When a project involves architectural or engineering services, those services must be performed by someone who is licensed and who can stamp and seal the documents. The seal and signature on drawings, calculations, specifications, certifications, shop drawings, and other submittals create the professional accountability that ensures the work meets applicable codes, standards, and the profession’s duty of care. A contractor may not legally provide or stamp such design documents unless they themselves are licensed or are acting under the guidance of a licensed design professional. That’s why the correct requirement is that these services must be provided by a licensed professional whose signature and seal appear on the relevant documents.

Options suggesting that any individual could provide the services, or that it’s limited to interior design, or that owner approval is enough, ignore the licensing and accountability framework that underpins professional design work.