Construction Supervision in Architectural Projects

The construction phase is the decisive stage of the entire architectural design process. It is at this point that technical, constructive, and regulatory decisions are implemented on site. Given the increasing complexity of buildings, construction supervision is essential to ensure that execution complies with the approved project, applicable legislation, and required technical standards.

Independent technical supervision protects the interests of the Client, ensures construction quality, and reduces technical, financial, and legal risks.

Legal Framework (summary)

Construction supervision in Portugal is governed by Law No. 31/2009 of 3 July, as amended, which defines the professional qualifications required for:

• Design and project coordination

• Technical direction of construction works

• Construction supervision on behalf of the Client

The legislation also establishes a fundamental principle: the Construction Supervisor must be independent from the executing entity, ensuring impartiality, technical autonomy, and the absence of conflicts of interest.

Who can carry out construction supervision?

Construction supervision must be performed by legally qualified professionals, namely:

• Engineers and technical engineers

• Architects and landscape architects

• Technical agents holding a CAP or Level 4 CET in construction site management

All professionals must be duly registered with their respective professional bodies or hold legally recognized certifications.

Scope of Construction Supervision

The primary objective of construction supervision is to verify the correct physical execution of the works, ensuring compliance with:

• Architectural and specialist projects

• Conditions imposed by licenses and administrative procedures

• Applicable technical and regulatory standards

Responsibilities of the Construction Supervisor

Key responsibilities include:

• Verifying compliance of the works with approved designs

• Supervising the performance of the Site Manager and the construction company

• Requesting technical support from project designers when required

• Identifying and reporting non-compliances to the Client

• Monitoring works on site and recording events in the Site Logbook

• Issuing technical progress and compliance reports

• Participating in site meetings and coordinating minutes

• Ensuring contractual compliance in terms of quality, deadlines, and costs

Note: Under legal provisions, the Construction Supervisor cannot belong to the executing company.

MJARC Construction Supervision Services

MJARC provides comprehensive construction supervision services for architectural projects, including:

• Technical review of architectural and specialist designs

• Verification of compatibility between disciplines

• Assessment of construction methods and solutions

• Technical validation of materials and equipment

• Regular on-site monitoring

• Verification of measurement statements and payment certifications

• Support in construction contract management

• Coordination with designers and execution teams

Request our specialized support in construction supervision and architectural projects.

Benefits of Independent Technical Supervision

Engaging a specialized supervision team offers clear advantages:

• Effective control of costs and schedules

• Reduction of construction errors and non-compliances

• Assurance of correct application of specified materials

• Prevention of technical and contractual disputes

• Greater legal security at project handover

• Qualified technical representation of the Client

Frequently Asked Questions – Construction Supervision

Is construction supervision mandatory?

Yes. Whenever licensing or a public contractual procedure is required, technical supervision by a qualified professional is legally mandatory.

Can the construction company provide supervision services?

No. Legislation prohibits the executing entity from performing supervision due to conflicts of interest.

When should the Construction Supervisor be appointed?

Preferably before the start of construction, to ensure monitoring from site setup and initial handover.

Construction Supervision Specialists

MJARC offers high-level technical supervision services, delivered by experienced professionals across projects of varying typologies and complexity. Our approach prioritizes technical compliance, transparency, and the protection of the Client’s interests.

Legal References

This information does not replace consultation of the applicable legislation, namely:

• Law No. 31/2009 of 3 July

• Decree-Law No. 176/98 (Statute of the Architects’ Association)