What are as-built drawings?

As-built drawings are revised versions of the contract documents that document any deviations from the original designs that occurred during the construction process. They serve as a precise record of the project as it was actually built, capturing all changes made in response to site conditions, design adjustments, or client requests. These drawings are essential for the maintenance and future renovation of the building, as they provide accurate information about the dimensions, locations of structural elements, and installations that may not be evident from the original plans.

This thorough documentation helps ensure that any future work on the building can take into account all modifications that were made during construction, thus preventing potential conflicts or issues. Understanding the significance of as-built drawings is crucial for architects, contractors, and clients, as they form the definitive guide for what was actually completed in the built environment.