Purpose

RFIs are used to obtain clarification of drawings, specifications, or other contract documents.

Responsibility

The Contractor initiates the RFI Process.The Project Manager (PM) should track the response to RFIs from the Architect/Engineer.

Timeline

RFIs are generated when design-related issues need to be addressed or confirmed and the information is not available in the construction documents.

Process

When a portion of the drawings, specifications, or other contract documents requires clarification or interpretation by the Architect/Engineer, the Contractor submits, in writing, a RFI. The RFI should be submitted on an approved form that will remain consistent throughout the project.

The Architect/Engineer reviews the RFI to determine applicability.

The Architect/Engineer issues a response to the RFI according to the timeline agreed upon in the contract documents.

Responses to RFIs are not intended to change the scope of work to increase or decrease the cost and/or schedule.  If the Contractor believes that such a change will be necessary, they must indicate this change in writing.