General Engineering · Engineering Glossary
Construction administration (CA) is the phase of engineering services in which the engineer of record supports the construction process — reviewing submittals, responding to RFIs, conducting site observations, and issuing field engineering decisions. CA ensures the building is constructed in conformance with the permit drawings and engineering intent.
During CA, the structural and MEP engineers review contractor submittals (shop drawings, product data, samples) to verify that the proposed materials and fabricated assemblies conform to the design intent. RFIs from the contractor are answered in writing, providing clarifications or design changes as needed. Site visits allow the engineer to observe critical construction activities — reinforcing before concrete pours, structural connections, MEP rough-in — and issue field reports. Requests for Information and Requests for Clarification are formally tracked. CA services are often required by the building department as a condition of permit and are strongly advisable on any project where field conditions may differ from design assumptions. Apex Grid provides CA services on projects where clients need engineering support through construction.
Apex Grid Engineering maintains this glossary as a resource for architects, contractors, developers, and property owners who encounter unfamiliar engineering terminology on their projects.
View All Engineering TermsApex Grid's licensed PEs provide general engineering services across multiple jurisdictions — with fast quote turnaround and permit-ready documents.
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