RFI meaning in construction

Request for Information

An RFI is a formal question from site to the designer or client when a drawing or specification is unclear, missing or conflicting.

A request for information (RFI) is raised when the site cannot proceed without clarification: dimensions that do not match between architectural and structural drawings, a missing detail, or an unclear specification. It is sent to the architect, consultant or client, and tracked until answered.

Each RFI should be numbered and include the drawing reference, the exact location, the question, a suggested solution if you have one, and the date the answer is needed by to avoid delay. Attach a photo or marked-up drawing where it helps. A shared log shows which questions are still open and who needs to reply.

RFIs matter beyond the immediate answer. A clear record of when a question was asked and answered supports delay claims and variations, and answers that change the work should flow into revised drawings and eventually the as-built drawings. Do not act on verbal answers alone.

Example

Illustrative: "RFI-014: Beam B12 on structural drawing S-05 rev B is 230 mm wide; architectural plan A-03 shows a 200 mm wall. Please confirm beam width. Needed by 20th for shuttering."

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