Yes, but the difference is that the owner will usually go with the contractor that gives the lowest bid. And if a contractor ignores code requirements or good design practices, they will have the lowest bid.
But inspections level the playing field somewhat. And I'm not against contractors doing design for smaller or simpler projects. It would be crazy to have an engineer design the addition of a simple receptacle.
But I am amazed at the number of contractors that are working on things like new health care facilities (or even surgery centers) and asking things like : Do I need a backup generator? Or 3 transfer swtiches? Or can I use Romex? :? Or does this building need emergency lights or exit signs?
Maybe I'm reading more into these questions than I should, but I can't imagine there is an engineer involved when the contractor is turning to an online forum to answer these questions. And I can't imagine how these projects ever get through the code review process or inspections and state licensing.
It is a little hard to believe there is no PE involved with the design of a NEW hospital. I do some work at a small community hospital. Over the past few years we have made a lot of upgrades of old equipment, remodeling of patient rooms, addition of CT scanner, installation of fire pump, replacement of old HVAC. Some day the generator that is at least 30 yrs old is going to need replaced. I will likely have a lot of input into what happens then. When it comes to remodeling patient rooms we have been bringing in required emergency system circuits, and of course installing redundant grounding, neither of which existed in this 60 year old building. Some of it has been done one room at a time with provisions to incorporate other rooms when the time comes to work on those rooms. I would almost guess many PE don't even want to get involved in this project that is happening over several years.
As far as owners going for the lowest bid - that is just the way things often work.
A similar analogy - I can go to specialty stores and buy clothing, household goods, electronics, etc., or I can go to Wal Mart and buy similar items usually at lower price. The items purchased at Wal Mart are not necessarily the same quality, and is reason they cost less. They do have some quality items there also, but not quite the bargain price as the other stuff, it is only less because of purchasing power that Wal Mart has.