ACG recommends to (clearly / not clearly) define the responsibilities of the commissioning authority and the owner from the outset.

• A. Clearly
• B. Not clearly
• C. Ambiguously
• D. Equally

Answer: (A)

Setting responsibilities from the start is essential because it creates clear lines of authority and accountability between the commissioning authority and the owner. When the roles and decision points are documented in the commissioning plan and contract, the CxA knows which tests to witness, who approves results, and who issues completion certificates. The owner knows which decisions they must make, what documentation they must review, and when that review must happen to keep the project on schedule. This clarity prevents gaps, reduces miscommunication, and ensures commissioning activities align with the owner’s performance criteria and milestones. If responsibilities are unclear, delays and disputes can arise as tasks are duplicated or overlooked. That’s why the recommended approach is to define responsibilities clearly from the outset.