When is a project considered to be in the "construction phase"?

A project is considered to be in the "construction phase" when construction actually starts and continues until the project is completed. This phase marks the period when physical work begins, involving the actual building, installation, and assembly of the components as specified in the project plans and designs. It encompasses all activities related to the on-site execution of the project, such as managing labor, materials, equipment, and ensuring that the work complies with the project specifications and schedule.

In contrast, other phases such as planning, design, bidding, and post-construction evaluations precede or follow the construction phase. These stages are crucial for the overall project development but do not constitute the construction phase itself. For instance, planning and design focus on the preparation and organization before any physical building occurs, while soliciting bids relates to contractor selection before construction begins. Post-construction evaluations occur after the project is completed to assess outcomes and performance. Thus, the construction phase is specifically defined as the period during which the physical building and assembly of the project occur.