What is the basis for progress payments under A201?

• A. Payments are automatic monthly regardless of progress.
• B. Payments are made only on owner approval of all changes.
• C. No payments until project completion.
• D. Progress payments are certified by the Architect and based on work completed and the Schedule of Values.

Answer: (D)

Progress payments under A201 are based on the value of the work actually completed, as laid out in the Schedule of Values, with the Architect certifying the amount due. The contractor prepares a Schedule of Values that breaks the contract price into components, the Architect reviews and certifies how much of each component is completed, and payments are made on that certified amount (minus previous payments and any retention). This mechanism ensures payments track progress rather than being automatic or tied to owner approvals of every change, and they occur before project completion.