Which of the following is a key characteristic of at-risk construction management?

• A. The at-risk CM acts as a general contractor during construction
• B. The at-risk CM is a design consultant only
• C. The at-risk CM handles only testing and commissioning
• D. The at-risk CM is responsible for owner financing and accounting

Answer: (A)

In at-risk construction management, the construction manager takes on construction responsibilities and risk, effectively serving as the general contractor during construction. This means the CM is engaged early to assist with design and planning, then delivers the project under a guaranteed maximum price, directly managing construction activities, subcontractors, procurement, and schedule while bearing the risk for cost overruns. This setup differentiates it from roles that are purely design-focused, like a design consultant, or those limited to testing, commissioning, or owner financing and accounting.