An RFI (Request for Information) is a formal written question from a contractor to the design team (architect, engineer, owner's rep) requesting clarification on drawings, specifications, or contract documents. Typical RFIs ask about conflicts between drawings and specifications, missing dimensions, undefined materials, code interpretations, and substitutions.
RFIs are tracked in a numbered log throughout the project. The design team responds in writing, and the response becomes part of the project record. Slow RFI turnaround is one of the leading causes of schedule slip on commercial work; a critical-path RFI sitting unanswered for two weeks can delay the entire project. Good RFI hygiene means writing clearly, asking specific questions, providing options when possible, and tracking response times to drive accountability.