CONTRACTOR GLOSSARY · FIELD & PAPERWORK
What is a RFI (request for information)?
An RFI is a formal written question from a contractor to the design team or GC when the drawings or specs are unclear, conflicting, or silent.
When the plans show two different things, or don't address a condition found in the field, the RFI puts the question — and eventually the answer — in writing. The formality is the value: RFI answers become part of the project record, and changes that flow from them are traceable to a documented direction rather than a hallway conversation.
For subs, RFIs also carry schedule and cost protection. A slow RFI answer that stalls work is documentable delay; an answer that changes scope is the paper trail behind the change order that follows.
Common questions
When should a sub write an RFI instead of just asking?
Whenever the answer could affect cost, schedule, or code compliance — or when a verbal answer would leave you holding risk. If acting on a wrong guess would be expensive, it's an RFI.
Related terms
RevnuPros tracks the thing, not just the word
Permits to sign-off, T&M tags to signature, materials to billed through, retainage to released — built for subcontractors. Browse the full contractor glossary or the Massachusetts permit guide.
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