Design · 6 min read

Architect solo and small-firm vacation.

Permit reviews, construction administration calls, RFIs from contractors, owner decisions during construction — solo architects and small firms have vacation challenges that compound during active projects.

Quick answer

Solo architects vacation with (1) covering architect / engineer for active CA-phase projects (RFI responses, change order approvals), (2) project audit for permit reviews and submittals during trip window, (3) clear client and contractor communication. Most architects can take 2 weeks per year cleanly with the right prep.

Project-by-project vacation planning

Schematic / design development phase

Lowest urgency — most decisions can wait. Auto-reply suffices.

Construction documents phase

Medium urgency — submittals and permit reviews may have deadlines. Audit before leaving.

Construction administration phase

Highest urgency — contractor RFIs come daily, change orders need fast approval. Covering architect required.

Covering architect requirements

Same-state license.
Familiarity with your building types.
E&O coverage and authority to sign on your behalf for the trip dates (with formal documentation).
Pre-introduction to active GCs and clients.

Communication with GCs and clients

GCs: notify by email AND phone. They schedule submittal meetings and don't appreciate surprises.

Clients: written notice with covering architect contact.

Authorities having jurisdiction (AHJ): notify if any submittal/review is in flight.

// CA-phase routing

Contractor RFIs route to covering architect.

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