Request for information
A request for information (RFI) is a formal written question sent during bidding or construction to clarify unclear, missing or conflicting project documents.
A request for information (RFI) is a formal written question sent during bidding or construction to clarify unclear, missing or conflicting project documents.
What request for information means
An RFI is a written, logged question raised by a contractor, subcontractor or supplier when the drawings or specification are unclear, incomplete or contradict each other. The design team answers in writing, and the answer becomes part of the project record.
RFIs are numbered, dated and tracked so that nothing is decided in a hallway conversation.
A plain example
A fabricator finds a wall on the architectural sheet that does not appear on the structural sheet. It submits an RFI with a marked-up sketch asking which governs. The designer replies in writing, possibly issuing a revised drawing. If the reply adds cost or time, it can trigger a change order.
Why it matters
Good RFIs protect the schedule and the paper trail. Vague questions slow answers; unanswered RFIs can become delay claims. Reviewers often look at RFI counts and response times as a signal of document quality.
Common confusion
An RFI is not a request for quotation (a price request) or a request for proposal (a solution and price request). Nor is it a substitute for a submittal, which presents product data for approval.
Practical checklist
Keep your RFI process light but disciplined, so answers arrive in time to be useful.
- Number each RFI and record the date sent, the date needed and the date answered.
- Attach a sketch or marked-up drawing so the question is unambiguous.
- Cite the drawing and specification references that appear to conflict.
- Say what you plan to do if no answer arrives by the needed date, without treating silence as approval.
- Close the loop by updating drawings or issuing a change instruction when the reply alters the documents.
Related terms
Questions people ask
Who answers an RFI?
Normally the architect or engineer of record, or whoever the contract names as the design authority.
Does an RFI response change the contract?
Not automatically. If it alters scope, cost or time, follow the contract’s change procedure.
What makes a good RFI?
One clear question, the drawing and specification references, a proposed solution if possible, and a needed-by date.
Sources and further reading
Have a project outline or drawings?
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