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A Guide to Construction RFIs

A Guide to Construction RFIs

February 19, 2023
Karolina
Construction
A Guide to Construction RFIs

Construction projects typically have detailed timelines, blueprints, cost estimates, and a clear division of labor between all of the employees involved. Even with these plans in place, there are usually details that require clarification. A request for information (RFI) is a document that one party involved in the project uses to get information from another party about gaps in the existing construction plans.

Contractors can use RFIs to get more in-depth details about blueprints and design plans from the project's architects, and construction managers can rely on the documents to learn about the capabilities, equipment, and materials contractors use to complete the work.

In either scenario, RFIs are important throughout the construction process. Here is a closer look at how to create and use RFIs.

What Is an RFI Used For?

RFIs are used in several different situations during a construction project. The most common reason is when a contractor needs additional information about the design. Perhaps there is a gap in the plans or something on the blueprints or design information that is unclear.

Contractors can also use RFIs if they have concerns about one of the details of the plans, such as the direction to use material they are concerned about. By submitting an RFI, they can learn more about why the material was chosen and suggest an alternative.

RFIs can also seek input into proposed changes that correct a problem or fix a mistake due to planning or unforeseen problems during construction. It puts the proposed alterations in writing and seeks approval for the change, which the contractor typically waits to receive before continuing.

Why Are RFIs Important?

Most importantly, RFIs improve the overall quality of the project. Contractors can use them to get the information they need to provide the best services possible and to meet the exact specifications of the designer and project owners.

Because the requests are in writing, they create a paper trail. The documents can serve as proof that a contractor was aware of an issue and tried to remedy it. This can be important if there is a problem with the construction and someone takes legal action to punish or fine the liable party.

RFIs can also be useful in proving that a contractor fulfilled the obligations laid out in the contract and followed additional directions given by the architect or other decision-makers during the project.

Types of Construction RFIs

Construction projects have a lot of moving parts. As a result, there are different types of RFIs for different situations. Here are the most common types contractors will encounter during a project.

RFIs can seek clarification or raise concerns about a variety of other issues related to the project, including issues about contracts, costs, distribution of risks, and warranties.

The RFI Process

RFIs typically follow a set process. Here is how it may progress.

Information is key to supporting RFIs. Tools like estimating and measuring software can be useful in weighing the impact of changes before proposing them. For example, painting or flooring estimate software can help show the value of proposed changes to the construction plan.

How To Write a Construction RFI

There are different types of RFIs, but they all include the following:

If you are advising changes, you should include estimates of how much these alterations will cost at the end of the document.

Construction RFI Template

Here is an example of what an RFI should look like before it gets filled out.

Company name:

Address:

Phone number:

Email:

Name of contact person:

Project name and location: RFI #:
Identifying info for section or drawing in question
Date of request Deadline for response
Details of request for information Space to respond to request
Description of attached documents to support the RFI
Cost impact of proposed changes

In some cases, you may wish to add other information, such as the requirement to stop work for safety reasons until you get a response.

General Tips for Construction RFIs

It pays to remain professional even if you are dealing with frustrating situations, such as managers or designers who are unfamiliar with the nuances of your trade or unwilling to accept changes.

If you are requesting specific information, such as specifications or dimensions, you should be sure to include a description of exactly what you are seeking. If your request is unclear, the necessary information might still be lacking.

How To Respond to an RFI

Architects and project managers typically should respond to RFIs quickly and attentively. In addition to potential legal liability that could arise if the issue mentioned in the RFI actually materializes, a thoughtful response creates a better working relationship between the design and construction wings of the project.

In addition to providing a clear answer, the architect can add more plans, drawings, or examples from previous projects.

Also, architects and construction managers can use construction submittals to get information about contractors' plans, which can help them get an understanding of the contractors' plans. These may help avoid some of the misunderstandings that lead to RFI submissions

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