ABCDEHLMOPRS
A
ACM
Asbestos-Containing Material — any building product found to contain asbestos, requiring licensed abatement before demolition.
B
book-matching
A pattern where adjacent tile or veneer slabs are flipped to mirror each other, creating a symmetrical grain or vein layout.
C
certificate of occupancy (also: CO, C of O)
An official document issued by the building authority confirming the structure meets code and is safe to occupy.
change order (also: change orders)
A formal written amendment to a construction contract that modifies the scope, cost, or schedule.
curb
A raised threshold — typically at a shower floor or exterior door — that contains water or serves as a transition.
D
deputy inspection
A licensed private inspector contracted by the owner to observe and certify specific work on behalf of the building department.
E
egress
A code-required exit path — typically a window or door meeting minimum size and accessibility standards for emergency escape.
H
A horizontal structural beam spanning a door or window opening to carry the load from above.
L
lien release (also: lien releases, unconditional lien release)
A document signed by a contractor or supplier waiving their right to file a mechanic's lien against the property.
linkage fee
A municipal fee charged to new or expanded construction to fund affordable housing. Owner-occupants may qualify for a waiver.
M
mastic
A flexible, waterproof adhesive used for tile setting and duct sealing.
MLV
Mass Loaded Vinyl — a heavy vinyl material sandwiched into walls or floors to block airborne sound.
O
OSB
Oriented Strand Board — engineered wood panels made from compressed wood strands, commonly used for sheathing and subfloor.
P
plan check
The building department's review of construction documents for code compliance before a permit is issued. May require multiple rounds.
punch list (also: punch lists)
A documented checklist of incomplete or deficient items that must be corrected before final payment or project closeout.
R
reducer
A transition strip that bridges flooring surfaces of different heights, tapering from one level to the other.
RFI
Request for Information — a formal written question from the contractor to the architect or owner asking for clarification on documents or scope.
RON
Remote Online Notarization — notarization conducted via live video conference, accepted in most U.S. states.
rough inspection (also: rough inspections)
A building department inspection of framing, plumbing, and electrical work before walls are covered with drywall.
rough-in (also: rough-ins)
The initial installation of plumbing, electrical, or HVAC systems before walls are closed.
S
Schluter trim
A brand of metal edge and transition trim widely used at tile perimeters, corners, and threshold transitions.
setback
The minimum required distance between a structure and a property line, set by local zoning code.
shear wall (also: shear walls)
A structural panel (plywood or OSB) nailed to framing that resists lateral forces from wind and earthquakes.
sistered joists (also: sistered joist)
Additional lumber fastened alongside existing floor joists to add strength or correct deflection.
subfloor (also: subfloors)
The structural layer of plywood or OSB fastened directly to floor joists, serving as the base for finish flooring.