Under the American Institute of Architects standard contractual framework, the architect is responsible for conducting inspections to determine whether construction work has achieved substantial completion.

Substantial completion occurs when the project, or a designated portion, is sufficiently complete according to the contract documents for the owner to occupy or use it for its intended purpose.

The architect evaluates completed work, reviews outstanding deficiencies, and determines whether the substantial completion requirements have been satisfied. The architect then prepares the appropriate certification, commonly documented using AIA Form G704.

The owner may participate in inspections, while construction managers coordinate project activities. The authority having jurisdiction independently evaluates regulatory compliance.

However, responsibility for determining substantial completion under the referenced AIA agreement rests with the architect.