The NCIDQ IDPX exam tests the designer’s understanding of project closeout, specifically the definition of substantial completion. Substantial completion marks a key milestone in the project when the work is largely finished, and the owner can occupy the space.
Option A (Partial occupancy has been issued):Partial occupancy may occur before substantial completion if the owner uses part of the space, but it does not define substantial completion. Partial occupancy can happen under specific agreements, even if the project is not substantially complete.
Option B (Deficiencies have been documented):Documenting deficiencies (via a punch list) occurs during the substantial completion walk-through, but this is a step in the process,not the definition of substantial completion itself.
Option C (Progress payments have been administered):Progress payments are made throughout the project based on work completed and are not tied to the definition of substantial completion. Payments may continue after substantial completion for remaining work or retainage.
Option D (The owner can use it for its intended purpose):This is the correct choice. According to standard construction contracts (e.g., AIA documents) and the NCIDQ IDPX guidelines, a project is considered substantially complete when the owner can use the space for its intended purpose, even if minor deficiencies remain (to be addressed via the punch list). This milestone typically triggers the start of the warranty period and final payments, minus retainage.
Verified Answer from Official Source:
The correct answer is verified from NCIDQ’s official study materials on project closeout and substantial completion.
“Substantial completion is achieved when the owner can use the space for its intended purpose, even if minor deficiencies remain to be addressed.†(NCIDQ IDPX Study Guide, Project Closeout Section)
The NCIDQ IDPX Study Guide defines substantial completion as the point when the owner can use the space for its intended purpose, aligning with Option D. This is a widely accepted definition in construction contracts, making it the correct answer.
Objectives:
Understand the definition of substantial completion (NCIDQ IDPX Objective: Project Closeout).
Apply project closeout principles to determine completion status (NCIDQ IDPX Objective: Construction Administration).
[References:, NCIDQ IDPX Study Guide, Project Closeout Section., AIA Document A201-2017, General Conditions of the Contract for Construction, Section 9.8 (Substantial Completion)., National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ), IDPX Exam Blueprint, Section on Project Closeout., ]
