An extended timeframe and over-budget projects are the two things that trouble contractors the most. By including information about on-site construction in the design process, construction review aids contractors in avoiding this. The team verifies models by looking for design anomalies, inconsistencies in the input data, maintenance clearance and accessibility requirements, No-Fly Zones, and the constructability of support systems.

If any differences are discovered, an RFI is raised appropriately and recorded for future use in the RFI log. To keep our clients informed of what is pending and has to be evaluated, we inform them of the RFI log. In this post, we will discuss FRI and constructability reviews.

Constructability Review

Through the elimination of construction-related delays, rework, and waste, constructability reviews aid in lowering project risk and overall project cost.

Reviews of a project’s constructability are done to make sure it can be built, is affordable, and can be maintained afterward.

Request For Information (RIF)

A request for information (RFI) in the construction industry asks for clarification of plans, drawings, specifications, and agreements. Using a formal written process called a construction RFI, stakeholders like the contractor and designer can fill in any informational gaps in the constructability review.

Although this procedure seems simple, RFIs can end up being a source of delays, costs, disputes, and even legal claims. Therefore, it is in everyone’s interest to comprehend how RFIs function and how to use them effectively in building projects.

At various stages of the building process, construction RFIs are used. A contractor may submit an RFI during the bidding process in order to better comprehend the specifics of the project and adjust a quote.

RFI Process for Constructability Review

A variety of parties, including clients, general contractors, consultants, architects, and engineers, are frequently involved in the complex RFI process. RFIs typically get a response in eight days, while sophisticated and lengthy projects may take much longer.

RFIs normally follow the steps that are listed below:

  1. A subcontractor draughts an RFI and delivers it to the general contractor in order to clarify the contract, design, specifications, or standards.
  2. If they can, the general contractor provides a detailed response to the RFI’s inquiry.
  3. The RFI is submitted to the client, the engineer, the consultant, the subcontractor, or the architect if more information is required.
  4. After receiving a thorough response from the proper party, the RFI is forwarded to the subcontractor.
  5. If the subcontractor is pleased with the response, work resumes. If not, the subcontractor amends the RFI and resubmits it.

Functions Of RFI

An RFI is required so that general contractors and subcontractors can finish the work to the client’s satisfaction while adhering to the architect’s design intent.

Design clarification, material substitution, construction problem identification, and contract term verification, requests for information have a number of functions, but the following are the most typical. These functions are similar to constructability review–

  • Clarify the design. If there is any ambiguity or contradicting information in the original designs, ask the contractor for design specifics.
  • Alternative materials When supplies are not available, not economical, or not appropriate for a project, you should suggest a logical change.
  • Find problems with the construction: When building problems arise because of site issues, sequencing concerns, or conflicting requirements, find a solution.

Ways To Make an RFI

The following guidance will assist you in crafting an RFI that will increase your chances of getting an accurate and timely response.

  1. Explain the Issue: Clearly explain the issue that needs to be fixed at the outset of each request for information (RFI). An RFI should also concentrate on a single issue because it will be more likely to get a suitable answer.
  2. Offer a solution: As subject matter experts, subcontractors frequently have excellent suggestions for resolving difficulties encountered during a project. They use the RFI process to present convincing answers to issues that arise.
  3. Provide context: Don’t forget to give any other details required to adequately explain the issue. Simply because there is no background to fully respond to the query, many RFIs are sent back to the subcontractor.
  4. Include images: Attaching important visuals, such as floor plans or photos, will help define the dilemma in real terms and make it simpler for the general contractor to find a solution.

Conclusion

Constructability review provides managers with the information that is required to keep track of everything and maintain the quality of work. RFI also works on the same principles. These two can keep the construction project running smoothly.