Construction supervision – Learn all about it with MJARC Arquitetos

Construction supervision in architectural projects

The execution phase marks the culmination of a multidisciplinary technical process initiated during the design stage. Given the increasing complexity of construction projects, it is essential to ensure specialized oversight to guarantee compliance with the approved project, applicable legislation, and required technical standards.

Ask us to help you with the supervision of architectural works and projects

Legal Framework

Construction supervision is regulated by Law no. 31/2009, of July 3, which defines the professional qualifications required of technicians responsible for:

• Preparing and coordinating project designs;
• Technically directing construction works;
• Supervising works on behalf of the Project Owner.

The law also mandates that the Construction Supervisor must be independent from the executing entity, ensuring impartiality and technical autonomy.

Professionals qualified to perform supervision:

• Engineers and technical engineers
• Architects and landscape architects
• Technical agents with a Level 4 CAP (Professional Aptitude Certificate) or a Level 4 CET (Technological Specialization Course) in construction management

Functions of the Supervision Team

The main purpose of construction supervision is to verify the physical execution of the works, ensuring compliance with:

• Architectural and engineering project plans
• Conditions imposed by permits and administrative procedures
• Applicable technical and regulatory legislation

Responsibilities of the Construction Supervisor:

• Verify execution compliance with the approved project
• Supervise the performance of the Site Manager and the construction company
• Request technical support from the project authors when necessary
• Report any technical deficiencies or non-conformities to the Project Owner
• Monitor construction activities and record relevant facts in the Construction Logbook
• Issue technical progress and compliance reports
• Attend site meetings and coordinate minutes documentation
• Ensure contractual compliance in terms of quality, schedule, and cost

Note: According to the law, the Construction Supervisor must not be part of the construction company’s staff, ensuring a clear separation of roles and technical independence.

Technical Services Included in the Supervision Scope

• Technical analysis of architectural and engineering projects
• Verification of coordination between project disciplines
• Evaluation of proposed construction methodologies
• Technical validation of materials and equipment used
• Ongoing construction site visits and execution monitoring
• Supervision of measurement records and phased payment certifications
• Support in managing construction contracts
• Coordination with project authors and responsible technical staff

Why Independent Technical Supervision Matters

Hiring a specialized construction supervision team brings tangible benefits, such as:

• Effective control of costs and timelines
• Prevention of construction errors and non-conformities
• Assurance of correct application of specified materials
• Prevention of technical and contractual disputes
• Legal and technical safety at project handover
• Qualified technical representation of the Project Owner

Is construction supervision mandatory?
Yes. Legislation requires technical supervision by a qualified professional whenever licensing or a public contractual procedure is involved.

Who can supervise construction work?
Technicians qualified under Law no. 31/2009, with valid registration in professional bodies or with a valid CAP or CET.

Can the construction company provide supervision services?
No. The law prohibits any member of the executing entity from being part of the supervision team, due to a conflict of interest.

When should the Construction Supervisor be appointed?
Preferably before the start of the construction works, to ensure supervision from the initial site setup and first project handover.

Experts in Technical Construction Supervision
MJARC provides construction supervision services with a high degree of technical rigor, delivered by professionals with proven experience across various types and complexities of projects.
We work with a strong focus on technical compliance, protection of the Project Owner’s interests, and process transparency.

REFERENCE AND FRAMEWORK:

Reading this information does not dispense with consulting the legislation in force.
Lei 31/2009 de 3 de Julho;
Decreto-Lei n.º 176/98;