Is it a condition to intend imitation in order to take a concession from another madhhab in a specific issue?

It is permissible for the layperson to follow any of the recognized schools of thought (madhahib) they wish, and they are not obliged to follow a specific one. If someone follows a particular school, it is permissible for them to adopt a concession from another school when there is a need. It suffices for them to know that the matter is permissible in a recognized school of thought or according to the saying of a scholar whose opinion is followed.