Which records should a Home Owner Builder maintain during construction?

• A. Permits, plan sets, change orders, invoices, receipts, lien waivers, inspection reports, and warranty information.
• B. Only permits and invoices.
• C. Only warranty information.
• D. Only lien waivers.

Answer: (A)

Keeping thorough records is essential to manage risk and show the project followed legal and contractual steps from start to finish. A comprehensive set includes permits, plan sets, change orders, invoices, receipts, lien waivers, inspection reports, and warranty information. Permits and plan sets prove that the work has been approved and designed to code. Change orders document any approved changes to scope, time, or cost, keeping the project aligned with what was agreed. Invoices and receipts track how money is spent and paid, providing a clear financial trail. Lien waivers protect the owner by showing that contractors and suppliers have been paid, reducing the risk of future liens. Inspection reports verify ongoing compliance with building codes and standards, while warranty information gives you the details needed to address any issues covered after construction. Having all these records together creates a reliable, enforceable record of the project, helps resolve disputes, supports future maintenance or resale, and protects you as the builder.

Limiting the records to just permits and invoices, or to only warranty information, would miss important aspects like approved design, changes, proof of payments, code checks, and warranty coverage, which leaves gaps in accountability and protection.