NCIDQ Interior Design Professional Exam (IDPX) Practice Exam

When do warranties typically commence during an interior design project?

1. On the date of substantial completion

2. When items are installed

3. Once the owner has inspected the goods

4. When the certificate of occupancy has been received

The correct answer is: On the date of substantial completion

Warranties in interior design projects generally commence on the date of substantial completion. This date marks a significant milestone in the project where the work is considered sufficiently complete and meets the requirements of the contract. At this point, the owner can begin to take possession of the space, and the designer's responsibility for the project shifts. Substantial completion indicates that the majority of the work is done, and any pending tasks are usually minor or can be completed after the client has begun using the space. Warranties are often structured to start from this moment to ensure that the owner is covered for issues that may arise after they start using the product or space, reflecting the intent of the warranty to protect against defects in workmanship or materials moving forward. Other options do not align with the standard practice regarding warranty commencement. For example, warranties do not typically start when items are installed, as work may not be complete at that time, nor do they begin upon inspection by the owner, which could be before substantial completion. Similarly, receiving a certificate of occupancy indicates that the space is safe to use but does not necessarily mark the beginning of the warranty period. Therefore, marking substantial completion as the starting point for warranties aligns with industry practices and contractual agreements.