What is the primary purpose of a Notice to Proceed?

The primary purpose of a Notice to Proceed is to formally authorize the start of construction activities. This document serves as a critical communication tool between the owner or project manager and the contractor, signaling that all necessary pre-construction conditions have been met, such as the finalization of contracts and any required permits. By issuing this notice, the project can officially commence, and the contractor can mobilize resources, start planning their schedules, and begin work on the site.

Other options, while related to construction and project management, do not serve the specific function that the Notice to Proceed fulfills. Finalizing payments is typically part of a different contractual process, while outlining project specifications and providing timelines are activities that generally occur prior to or during project planning and are not the main intention of the Notice to Proceed itself.