Checking installed products against the approved submittal
The plumbing foreman has installed the first three faucets. The delivery matches the purchase order, but the approved submission names a different model suffix. Both products look alike from across the room.
Compare the actual installed product's identifiers and configuration with the current approved submittal before repeating the installation. Check the submission's conditions and marked revisions as well as its cover stamp. A delivery can match an order that was written incorrectly. This check connects the physical item to what was reviewed, so a purchasing mistake does not spread through the building.
- Obtain the current approved submission and its review comments for the precise item. Confirm the drawing location, equipment tag and any condition that had to be resolved before installation.
- Ask the trade to show the first installed piece and its packaging or identification label. Compare the complete model code, size, finish and specified accessories with the reviewed information.
- Check the configuration that will become difficult to inspect later. Record what you can verify and refer technical or performance questions to the responsible reviewer.
- If something differs, pause further installation of that item and identify where the same stock has gone. Mark the affected locations and keep uninstalled units separate while the discrepancy is resolved.
- Ask the trade to provide the reason and a proposed correction or substitution through the project's approval process. Do not let a supplier's assurance stand in for the required decision.
- After the authorized resolution, inspect the corrected first piece and update the order or stock controls that caused the mismatch. Retain the identifiers, decision and affected-location record.
The US federal FAR drawings clause illustrates that shop-drawing approval does not remove responsibility for errors or contract compliance. On your job, read the actual approval conditions; a stamp does not authorize an undeclared product change.
Common mistakes
- Comparing the installed item only with the delivery ticket.
- Reading the model family but skipping the suffix and accessories.
- Accepting 'equivalent' from the supplier without the required review.
- Checking only after every unit is installed and packaging has been discarded.
Checklist
At the first installed piece
- Current approved revision and conditions
- Full product identifier
- Required accessories and configuration
- Affected stock and locations known
- Difference referred for decision
- Corrected piece checked before repetition
Check your understanding
The installed unit has the approved model code but lacks an accessory shown on the submission. Is the check complete?
