Who is responsible for the "roughing in" of the sanitary pipes in a townhouse development project?

In a townhouse development project, the responsibility for the "roughing in" of the sanitary pipes typically falls to the plumbing contractor, specifically to a skilled tradesperson known as a journeyman. This process involves the installation of the necessary piping and fixtures that will be concealed within the walls and flooring before the final finishes are applied. The journeyman ensures that the plumbing meets local codes and is properly integrated into the building's overall design.

The architect plays a crucial role in the design and planning phase of the project, but their responsibility primarily involves creating blueprints and specifications that guide all trades, including plumbing. They do not perform on-site installations.

The mason generally focuses on the construction of structures like walls and foundations, while the foreman oversees the work on-site to ensure that it is being carried out according to plans and schedules. However, the actual and hands-on installation of plumbing systems is designated to the journeyman plumbing professional. This demonstrates the specialized skills needed for roughing in sanitary pipes, which necessitates a high level of training and expertise typically not attributed to the roles of architects, foremen, or masons.