John,

I have seen many architect plans that do not make code. Sometimes if it is a small job and it is being done by an EC, I might not require a "plan". The EC should no his code, and if I get out there and fail him for something small, I usually don't get any lip from the EC. Your from a bigger town than I am, and I can see how you need to be strict with your codes. If I see HO plan, I make sure that the layout of the electric is close to code. Even then sometimes you get there and it doesn't look like the plan at all. Again, I am referring to "smaller" remodel jobs.