What is an RFI and how is it used during construction administration?

• A. A formal request for information to clarify design intent or resolve ambiguities; triggers responses and potential design or field changes
• B. A request for information that is solely for scheduling
• C. A request to approve changes to the contract price
• D. A formal address safety concerns during construction

Answer: (A)

RFIs are formal requests for information used during construction administration to clarify design intent and resolve ambiguities in the contract documents. When the contractor encounters unclear details or omissions in drawings or specifications, they submit an RFI to the architect or engineer describing the issue and citing the relevant references. The design professional then provides a written response that clarifies intent, fills in missing information, or interprets the specification. This clarification can confirm how work should be done, add or modify details, or identify that a design change is needed. If the information reveals a discrepancy that affects how the work is executed, it can lead to design or field changes being issued. RFIs keep construction moving by preventing misinterpretations and rework, and they are part of the formal communication loop in the contract documents, distinct from requests that affect schedule, price, or safety directives.