What Is A Deferred Submittal In Construction?

What Is a Deferred Submittal in Construction?

If you’ve ever wondered what a deferred submittal really means in construction, you’re not alone. Many people in the field encounter it but don’t fully understand how it works or why it matters. In this blog, we’ll dive deep into what deferred submittals are, why they exist, and how to handle them the right way.

Regular Submittals vs. Deferred Submittals

A regular submittal happens when the design is already complete. In this case, the contractor simply needs to select the materials and equipment, confirm installation methods, and make sure everything aligns with the specifications. Once the architect approves, you can order and build without delay.

A deferred submittal, on the other hand, involves additional design and engineering work that still needs to be completed. These submittals require approval from the city or authority having jurisdiction (AHJ), not just the architect. That means there’s an extra process step and often a longer lead time.

What Typically Counts as a Deferred Submittal?

Deferred submittals are usually tied to systems or components that need trade partner expertise for design and engineering. Common examples include:

• Steel stairs – The steel contractor designs and engineers how the stairs tie into the structure.
• Roof trusses – Require specialized design for load capacity and configuration.
  In general, if a component requires additional calculations or custom engineering, it will likely fall under the deferred submittal category.

A quick tip: you can always call your city office and ask what they classify as a deferred submittal. The architect will usually have already identified these in accordance with local regulations.

Who Decides What Can Be Deferred?

The city ultimately has authority over what qualifies as a deferred submittal. However, the design team and owner can also make recommendations if there’s flexibility within the project scope.

Why You Should Never Install Before Approval

Installing work before a deferred submittal is approved is a major risk. The city or inspector can reject the work, forcing costly rework or even removal. It’s always best to wait for full approval before proceeding, no shortcuts.

How to Track Deferred Submittals

Tracking these submittals is crucial for project flow.
Here’s a simple system that works well:

• Keep a separate list of regular and deferred submittals.
• Tie each to the related activities in your production plan.
• Review them weekly during strategic planning and procurement meetings. This ensures you catch any delays early and maintain smooth coordination across trades.

The Inspector’s Role

The inspector, representing the AHJ, has complete oversight of deferred submittals. They must confirm that all designs are approved before work begins. These submittals often involve structural or life-safety systems, so the inspector’s approval isn’t optional; it’s mandatory.

Key Takeaway

Deferred submittals add an extra layer of process but for good reason. They ensure that complex or safety-critical systems are properly designed, reviewed, and approved before installation. By tracking them closely and respecting the approval process, you protect your project from rework, delays, and compliance issues.