During construction, work is routinely covered before the architect can observe it. Concrete is poured over reinforcing steel, walls are closed over framing, and finishes are applied over substrates. When questions arise about whether covered work conforms to the contract documents, A201-2017 Article 12 provides the framework for uncovering and correcting it.

Section 12.1 addresses uncovering work that has been covered contrary to the architect's request or without the required notification to the architect. If the contractor covers work that the architect specifically requested to observe before covering, the contractor must uncover the work at the contractor's expense, regardless of whether the work turns out to be conforming.

Section 12.1 also addresses situations where covered work was not specifically requested to remain exposed. If the architect later suspects that covered work may be non-conforming, the architect can request that it be uncovered. In this case, who pays depends on the outcome: if the work is non-conforming, the contractor pays all costs of uncovering, correcting, and recovering. If the work is conforming, the owner pays the cost of uncovering and recovering.

Section 12.2 addresses correction of work found to be non-conforming, whether discovered before or after substantial completion. The contractor is obligated to correct non-conforming work at no additional cost to the owner. Section 12.2.2 establishes a one-year correction period following substantial completion during which the contractor must correct defective work upon written notice from the owner.

The cost allocation rules under Article 12 are among the most frequently tested concepts on the CE exam.