Construction RFI Process
The RFI process controls how project teams ask and answer formal clarification questions. A good process keeps questions specific, routes them to the right reviewer, and records the answer for the project file.
Process steps
- Step 1
Write the question clearly
State the drawing, specification, location, and decision needed. Avoid combining unrelated issues in one RFI.
- Step 2
Add backup
Attach sketches, photos, marked-up drawings, specification references, and proposed solutions when they help the reviewer answer.
- Step 3
Route to the responsible reviewer
Send architectural, structural, MEP, civil, or owner questions to the reviewer who can give an authoritative answer.
- Step 4
Track due dates and impacts
Record the required response date, affected activity, potential cost impact, and potential schedule impact.
- Step 5
Distribute and close
Send the response to affected parties, update logs, and confirm whether follow-up documents such as ASIs or change orders are needed.
Checklist
- RFI number
- Drawing or spec reference
- Question
- Suggested solution
- Reviewer
- Due date
- Response
- Cost or schedule flag