An RFI (Request for Information) is a standardized form used to formally ask for guidance on ambiguities, conflicts, or missing information in the plans and specifications. Common RFIs include questions like “The electrical plan shows an outlet here, but the framing plan shows a stud. Which is correct?” or “The spec calls for a 2x10 joist, but field conditions show only 2 inches of space available. What should we do?” The contractor submits the RFI to the architect or owner, who investigates and provides an official response, often within a set timeframe (typically 48 hours to 5 days depending on contract terms).
RFIs create a paper trail of questions and answers that protects the contractor if the clarification leads to additional work or cost. On commercial projects, RFIs are formal processes with numbered forms and tracking logs. On residential custom builds, RFIs are less formal but still valuable: a text message from the contractor to the architect asking for clarification is a de facto RFI. When an RFI results in work that was not in the base bid, the contractor can request a change order to cover the additional cost. Builders and contractors should use RFIs liberally to get clarification in writing rather than relying on verbal decisions that can be misremembered or disputed later.