Planning & EstimatingQuestion 550 of 700
The specifications name a specific product but add the phrase 'or equal.' A subcontractor wants to use a different brand. What is the BEST procedure?
a.Install the substitute immediately since 'or equal' allows any brand
b.Ignore the phrase and only the named product is permitted
c.Submit the proposed product for the design professional's approval before ordering
d.Let the supplier decide which product is equal
Explanation
An 'or equal' clause permits substitutions, but the burden is on the contractor to demonstrate the proposed item meets the specified performance, and the design professional must approve it before it is ordered or installed. Option a skips required approval. Option b ignores the clause. Option d improperly delegates a design judgment to a vendor. Route substitutions through the submittal and approval process.
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