Construction RFIs

Are you working on a construction project and you’ve found some design issues that need clarification or approval? Don’t worry, a Request for Information (RFI) can help you get the answers you need. Download our free RFI template below.

  • RFIs (Request for Information) are formal documents issued by the construction team to the design team for clarification or approval of design issues, also known as TQs (Technical Queries)

  • RFIs arise due to missing or incorrect information, inconsistencies, clashes, or proposed changes in approved drawings

  • The RFI process is relatively straightforward, with the construction team identifying an issue or proposed change, completing the RFI form and sending it to the design team, who prepare a response for approval before proceeding with construction works.

Learn how to write an RFI in our design management course!

Requests For Information

What is a Construction RFI?

An RFI is a formal document used by the construction team to request clarification or approval for a design issue. Also known as Technical Queries (TQs), RFIs are questions that require answers. RFIs typically arise due to missing or incorrect information from the design, inconsistencies between drawings or supplied information, clashes between objects, or value engineering proposals. Any changes to the approved drawings will require an RFI.

The RFI Process

The RFI process is straightforward. It begins with the construction team identifying an issue or proposed change, completing the RFI form, and sending it to the design team. The design manager typically allocates the RFI to the appropriate designer, who prepares a response and issues it back to the construction team. There may be some back-and-forth during this stage, depending on whether or not the construction team is satisfied with the response. In some instances, the RFI may need to be submitted to the client for approval if there is a significant change to the approved design. Once all parties are happy with the RFI response, construction works can proceed. The design change associated with the RFI will be captured as a red-line mark up on the drawings and eventually included in the as-built drawing set.

RFI Forms

RFI forms are simple and easy to fill out. They are a formal way of documenting correspondence with the design team. At the top of the form, basic information such as the RFI number, date, project name and number, who it was submitted to, and who it was submitted by is entered. The RFI reason is also noted down, whether it is due to missing or inaccurate design information or a proposed value engineering change by the construction team. It is important to note this down as it has commercial implications for the designer. Next, the drawing reference is entered, which is the drawing or drawings that are affected by the RFI. The RFI description is completed, detailing the actual question being asked and the information required from the design team. It is good practice to attach drawings and photos that help explain the question. If a value engineering change is proposed, the construction team should ensure they have done their background research and be confident they will be allowed to proceed with the change before submitting the RFI.