Who certifies the amount due for a payment application?

• A. The Owner certifies the amount due.
• B. Architect certifies the amount due; Owner pays the certified amount.
• C. The Contractor certifies the amount due.
• D. The Subcontractors certify the amount due.

Answer: (B)

The amount due on a payment application is certified by the Architect. In AIA A201, the Contractor submits a payment request, and the Architect reviews the work completed, compares it to the contract documents and the Schedule of Values (and any approved changes), and then issues a Certificate for Payment for the amount the Owner owes for that period (including any retainage). The Owner pays the certified amount to the Contractor. This arrangement uses the Architect as an impartial verifier to ensure payment aligns with work completed and approved, rather than leaving the decision to the Contractor or Owner alone. Subcontractors don’t certify the payment amount; they’re paid through the Contractor.