Which statement best describes the relationship between RFIs and design documents?

• A. RFIs do not involve design documents.
• B. RFIs require a formal change order to affect drawings.
• C. RFIs may require the architect to prepare drawings and specifications to answer the question.
• D. RFIs replace the need for documents.

Answer: (C)

RFIs exist to clarify and resolve questions about the design documents. When an RFI is issued, the architect (or design team) may need to prepare revised or additional drawings and specifications to provide a precise answer and keep the project documents aligned with the design intent. RFIs draw on the existing design documents and help avoid ambiguity, rather than replacing them. While some responses may lead to changes in the documents, the essential point is that an RFI can require new or updated drawings and specs to address the question.