An "as-built" drawing (or set of drawings) are prepared at the end of a construction or engineering project to show the actual configuration of the final system as it was actually built or installed. It may differ significantly from the original plans or subsequent revisions, because it contains the actual state of the project when it is completed and commissioned. Modifications may be noted on the as-builts.
The phrase "as-built" in construction is equivalent to "as-is." Drawings deemed "as-built" are thus drawings that show the EXISTING conditions as they are, or "as-is" — these are the actual existing conditions as opposed to designs or proposed conditions, which are more common for the content of drawings. As-built drawings can be documented either after or during construction. When it's after construction, a qualified technician collects accurate data to reconstruct the drawings. When it's during construction, the design drawings are redmarked for editing. For example, if you are a Contractor installing sewer pipe in the road at a buried depth of 5.00' and you suddenly encounter an abandoned pipe and must change your buried depth to 6.50' , then you should be responsible for the as-built conditions. The installing contractor should redmark his set of drawings to show how the sewer line was actually installed so that a draftsman can later edit the drawings into an "as-built" set.
The phrase "as-built" in construction is equivalent to "as-is." Drawings deemed "as-built" are thus drawings that show the EXISTING conditions as they are, or "as-is" — these are the actual existing conditions as opposed to designs or proposed conditions, which are more common for the content of drawings. As-built drawings can be documented either after or during construction. When it's after construction, a qualified technician collects accurate data to reconstruct the drawings. When it's during construction, the design drawings are redmarked for editing. For example, if you are a Contractor installing sewer pipe in the road at a buried depth of 5.00' and you suddenly encounter an abandoned pipe and must change your buried depth to 6.50' , then you should be responsible for the as-built conditions. The installing contractor should redmark his set of drawings to show how the sewer line was actually installed so that a draftsman can later edit the drawings into an "as-built" set.
document original condition
The phrase "as-built" in construction is equivalent to "as-is." Drawings deemed "as-built" are thus drawings that show the EXISTING conditions as they are, or "as-is" — these are the actual existing conditions as opposed to designs or proposed conditions, which are more common for the content of drawings. As-built drawings can be documented either after or during construction. When it's after construction, a qualified technician collects accurate data to reconstruct the drawings. When it's during construction, the design drawings are redmarked for editing. For example, if you are a Contractor installing sewer pipe in the road at a buried depth of 5.00' and you suddenly encounter an abandoned pipe and must change your buried depth to 6.50' , then you should be responsible for the as-built conditions. The installing contractor should redmark his set of drawings to show how the sewer line was actually installed so that a draftsman can later edit the drawings into an "as-built" set.
As-built drawings are typically issued by contractors or construction companies to clients, architects, or project managers upon the completion of a construction project. These drawings reflect the actual conditions and modifications made during construction, providing an accurate representation of the final built environment. They serve as an essential reference for future maintenance, renovations, or inspections.
hand-built shacks of the rural South
To prepare as-built drawings, first gather all relevant documentation, including initial design drawings, construction notes, and any changes made during the project. Conduct a site survey to measure and document the actual dimensions and locations of installed systems and components. Update the original drawings to reflect these changes accurately, ensuring all modifications are clearly marked. Finally, review the drawings for accuracy and completeness before finalizing and distributing them.
As-built drawings are typically the responsibility of the contractor or construction team, who must document any changes made during the construction process compared to the original design plans. These drawings are then often reviewed and finalized by the architect or project manager to ensure accuracy. Ultimately, the owner or client may also play a role in confirming the final as-built drawings, especially if they are needed for maintenance or future renovations.
From the American Institute of Architects, Record Drawings are construction drawings revised to show significant changes made during the construction process, usually based on marked-up prints, drawings, and other data furnished by the contractor or architect. This term is preferable to "as-built drawings."
Understanding civil engineering drawings is a basic skill needed for electrical engineers as these drawings give them a perspective on how the building is being built and how electrical appliances will be installed or provided.
Yes, it is appropriate to have revisions in as-built drawings. These revisions reflect any changes made during construction that differ from the original design, ensuring that the final documentation accurately represents the completed project. Accurate as-built drawings are essential for future maintenance, renovations, and compliance with regulations. Thus, updating them is crucial for effective project management and communication.
Structural shop drawings differ from design drawings in both purpose and level of detail, even though they work closely together in a construction project. Design drawings focus on the overall structural intent of a building. They are created by structural engineers to show how the structure should perform, including load paths, member sizes, and general layouts. These drawings communicate the concept, design criteria, and compliance with codes, but they do not usually include fabrication-level details. Structural shop drawings, on the other hand, are highly detailed and practical. They translate the design drawings into construction-ready information that fabricators and contractors can directly use. Shop drawings include exact dimensions, material grades, connection details, reinforcement layouts, bolt and weld specifications, and assembly instructions. They also account for real-world construction conditions and coordination with other trades. In simple terms, design drawings explain what needs to be built and why, while structural shop drawings explain how it will be built. Together, they ensure accuracy, efficiency, and smooth execution from design to construction.