Creating an RFI document?
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In construction, a request for information (RFI) is looking for clarification of plans, drawings, specifications, and agreements. A construction RFI document is a formal written process in which parties, such as the subcontractor, general contractor, architect and owner, clarify imprecise details in construction drawings.

A good construction RFI template is essential for your work. It needs to cover all the important information like drawing details, a clear description of the question, and an answer that all parties have signed off on. If you’re going to get clarity from everyone on a key decision or issue, you need a document everyone can understand and follow. You also don’t know who at the other companies you’re working with will see it, so it needs to look professional. This template will help you cover all your bases for what’s needed for a good RFI template.

RFIs contain standard information about the project, parties involved, questions, answers, as well as supplemental information like drawing references and spec sections. It’s important to have a standardized RFI template, so that project information can be reviewed in a consistent manner. An RFI is a great way to eliminate any confusion around specific planning requirements, since an RFI is assigned a specific reference number for tracking purposes and is usually approved by a project manager, architect and/or engineer.

We've been in the construction industry for over 12 years, and have been helping general contractors and subcontractors just like you with all your project management needs. We know how difficult it is to standardize your construction process and wanted to provide a free template to help you get more organized. We also know how often you’re on the go and pressed for time, which is why we wanted to provide you with something you can download and use right away.

RFIs are used to clarify any potential problems with designs, construction materials, or engineering methods being used. As a general contractor, you might send an RFI to subcontractors in order to get a better understanding of the materials, equipment and skill that is necessary for the work that they have been contracted to do. As a subcontractor, you want to make sure that the work being done by your team is completed to specification. To avoid being at fault for misunderstanding the task at hand, you can send an RFI to the project manager and get clarification on the materials, equipment and scope of work before starting work on the job. As an architect/engineer, you want to make sure that the subcontractor follows your design plans as intended. An RFI provides an opportunity for you to intervene in the construction process to help the subcontractor avoid mistakes and costly delays.

The RFI document is used to ask for clarification in a standardized format. Although it is not legally binding, an RFI provides an audit trail that can be used as supporting documentation if any future disagreements occur between parties on the project.