A request for information (RFI) is a formal written process undertaken during a building undertaking to clarify information like plans, drawings, specifications, and agreements.
The main objective of RFI is to define the construction data that is missing or unclear.
RFIs often become a source of delay, conflict, and legal claims. Hence, it is necessary that all the construction stakeholders understand how RFIs work and how to use them efficiently.
This article discusses the features and working of RFIs in construction undertakings.
RFIs are requested to get more details about certain aspects of the project when the given plans or documents are insufficient. In construction, RFIs are issued by contractors to the architect, designer, or engineer to clarify a drawing or specification.
RFIs generally arise during the following scenarios:
Prompt clarification and complete response to the RFI help to schedule and perform the construction works on time and within budget. If the response is found incomplete by the contractor, RFI is resubmitted for further clarification.
RFI has a variety of functions during the construction phase. Broadly, the functions can be categorized into:
RFI is an integral part of a construction undertaking. The whole process is time-consuming and takes a lot of administration work. RFI documentation needs a number of documents and rounds of feedback between the involved parties to solve the raised clarification and keep the undertaking moving. Finally, RFI is considered valuable, which helps gather insights for current as well as future construction undertakings.
A request for information (RFI) is a formal written process undertaken during a building undertaking to clarify information like plans, drawings, specifications, and agreements.
Prompt clarification and complete response to the RFI help to schedule and perform the construction works on time and within budget. If the response is found incomplete by the contractor, RFI is resubmitted for further clarification. In construction, RFIs are issued by contractors to the architect, designer, or engineer to clarify a drawing or specification.
The RFI procedure offers information in a formal and structured way. The importance of RFI in construction is: 1. 2. RFI makes sure that the project is executed as per the agreed program and budget. 3. It is a mode to identify information gaps between the contractor and the client. 4. This helps to reduce project delays and unexpected costs. Early RFIs act as an early warning for the client about the project concerns.