California Supplemental (CSE) Practice Exam

Can an architect legally sign documents created by someone else outside their responsible control?

1. Yes, if the other party is licensed

2. No, they cannot

3. Yes, if outsourced work is done in another country

4. No, but only for minor changes

The correct answer is: No, they cannot

An architect cannot legally sign documents created by someone else outside their responsible control because doing so undermines the integrity of the professional standards and responsibilities outlined in architectural practice. An architect's signature on documents indicates their direct oversight and responsibility for the content, accuracy, and compliance with applicable codes and regulations. When an architect signs off on a document, they are essentially vouching for the quality and legality of the work presented. If the work was not produced under their supervision or does not reflect their professional judgment, it poses risks such as misrepresentation or potential liability issues. This rule helps ensure that all architectural work meets the necessary standards and protects public safety, health, and welfare. In this context, while the involvement of a licensed party or outsourcing the work internationally may seem to provide some level of legitimacy, these factors do not relieve the architect of their professional obligations. Minor changes do not alter the fundamental requirement that an architect must only sign documents for work they have directly overseen and for which they can be held accountable.