RFI Drafting GPT
Describe the issue, get a formatted RFI with references and deadline
Tell it what the problem is — "structural grid on A-201 doesn't match S-101 at grid C-3" — and get a properly formatted RFI with drawing references, spec citations, and a suggested response deadline. Review, tweak, send.
The Problem
You need the architect to clarify the wall type at the corridor. You send a quick email: "Please clarify the wall type at the corridor." A week passes. The response is vague. You ask again. Now framing is on hold. A poorly written RFI costs about $1,080 in processing time across all parties. Each unclear RFI adds another week of delay.
How It Works
Describe the issue in plain language — "the structural grid on A-201 doesn't match the column layout on S-101 at grid line C-3." The tool generates a complete RFI following AIA G716 format: clear subject line, drawing and spec references, description of the discrepancy, schedule or cost impact if unresolved, and a suggested response deadline. You review, edit, and send.
"door schedule says HM frames but partition shows wood stud at room 203""4" duct conflict with beam at grid B-3 level 2, need routing fix"Door schedule says HM frames but the partition at Room 203 shows wood stud.
RFI #___ — Drawing Conflict: Frame Type vs. Partition at Room 203 Drawings referenced: A3.02 (partition plan), A9.01 (door schedule) Issue: Door D-14 on Sheet A9.01 specifies 16-gauge hollow metal frame. Sheet A3.02 shows the Room 203 partition as 3-5/8" metal stud with 5/8" GWB. HM frames require solid backing (steel stud, CMU, or wood blocking per manufacturer requirements). Request: Confirm one of the following: (A) Partition is steel stud — revise A3.02 to show correct substrate, or (B) Revise frame to pressed steel door frame (acceptable for wood/metal stud), or (C) Provide blocking detail at door rough opening. Response required by: [date] to avoid impact on door frame procurement lead time (current lead: 6 weeks).
Key Features
Who It's For
GCs and subcontractors writing RFIs regularly. Build these documents carefully to reduce back-and-forth and accelerate answers.
This tool drafts RFI text based on your description — it does not access your actual project documents, BIM models, or drawing files. The generated RFI should be reviewed for accuracy before sending. It does not track RFI numbers, log responses, or integrate with project management platforms. For automated detection of coordination issues across your drawings, use our Drawing Review Agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I write a good construction RFI?
A good RFI has five elements: (1) a specific, searchable subject line, (2) clear drawing and spec references, (3) a concise description of the discrepancy or question, (4) the impact on cost/schedule if unresolved, and (5) a reasonable response deadline. Avoid vague questions like "please clarify" — instead, describe exactly what conflicts and where.
What is the average cost of an RFI in construction?
Industry research estimates the average RFI costs $1,080 when you include time spent by the originator, reviewer, and responder. On a $50M commercial project with 500+ RFIs, that can exceed $500K in administrative costs alone.
Is the RFI drafting tool free?
Yes, the RFI Drafting GPT is completely free. Describe your issue and get a formatted RFI instantly. For automated detection of the coordination issues that cause RFIs in the first place, try our Drawing Review Agent.
What is a construction RFI and when should I use one?
A Request for Information (RFI) is a formal written question from a contractor or subcontractor to the architect or engineer seeking clarification on the contract documents. Use an RFI when drawings conflict with specifications, dimensions are missing or ambiguous, a field condition differs from what the drawings show, or you need an interpretation of a code or specification requirement. RFIs create a documented paper trail for contract changes and protect all parties from disputes about what was agreed.
How do I write an RFI that gets answered quickly?
RFIs that get fast responses are specific and easy to act on: include the exact drawing sheet and detail number, the specific dimension or note in question, and a clear statement of what you are asking ("please confirm structural beam size at grid C-3, level 2 — S-201 shows W12x65 but S-301 shows W10x54"). Attach a marked-up drawing excerpt. State the impact clearly ("without clarification, steel erection at this location must stop by [date]"). A well-drafted RFI takes an architect 5 minutes to answer instead of 30 minutes hunting for context.
What is AIA G716 and do I have to use it?
AIA G716 is the standard Request for Information form published by the American Institute of Architects. It is not legally required but is widely used on AIA contract projects because it provides a consistent format that both parties understand. Most project management platforms (Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud, PlanGrid) have their own RFI forms that follow the same structure. The key fields — subject, drawing references, description, response required date — are the same regardless of which form you use.
What is the difference between an RFI and a submittal in construction?
An RFI asks a question and requests clarification from the design team. A submittal is a document or sample submitted by the contractor for the design team's review and approval — shop drawings, product data sheets, samples, or mock-ups. RFIs flow from contractor to architect; submittals also flow from contractor to architect but in the other direction conceptually — the contractor is showing what they plan to build and seeking approval. Many RFIs are triggered by issues found during submittal review when shop drawings reveal a conflict with the contract drawings.