What Are As-Built Drawings and Why Are They Important
Let’s clear something up: “as-built” drawings are intended to represent a building or interior as it was actually constructed—not as it was originally designed. However, especially in the tenant improvement and interior design world, these drawings often refer to "record drawings" kept by building owners or previous tenants. The problem? They’re frequently outdated or incomplete, leaving designers and architects with a less-than-accurate picture of the space.
Despite their misnomer and the occasional misrepresentation, as-built drawings are a critical resource for design professionals, especially when tackling interior renovations or tenant improvements. Let’s dive into why they matter, the challenges around them, and what we can do to improve the system.
Why Are As-Built Drawings Important?
Due Diligence Saves Time
Even imperfect as-built drawings can provide early insights into a space's feasibility, helping design teams evaluate layouts, fit plans, and spatial considerations during the leasing process. This can save all parties time and effort, streamlining negotiations and decisions.
Reducing Construction Waste
Accurate drawings reduce the carbon footprint of construction. Knowing what materials are installed—like flooring, energy-compliant fixtures, or plumbing—can facilitate reuse, minimize waste, and match original specifications where possible.
Minimizing Travel and Redundancy
Survey teams often need multiple site visits to accurately assess existing improvements. While digital scans of a building are helpful, they can’t reveal what's hidden—like piping behind walls or part numbers on HVAC systems. Having precise as-built drawings eliminates unnecessary trips and gives tradespeople a clearer picture from the start.
Faster Permitting and Compliance
As-built drawings record not just technical data but also key classifications, such as occupancy types or municipal code compliance. This historical data makes it easier to address permitting requirements and avoid costly assumptions or delays.
FAQs About As-Built Drawings
Does the city keep a copy?
Sometimes, but it depends on the city. Accessing records often involves lengthy processes, such as submitting in-person requests or obtaining releases from original architects and engineers. Unfortunately, these efforts may yield incomplete or outdated documents, making this a less-than-ideal solution.
How Can We Improve the Process?
For General Contractors
When turning over signed construction drawings, label and package them clearly for future use. A simple cardboard tube marked "Keep On Site for Reference" can go a long way.
For Tenants
Retain both physical and digital copies of the drawings provided by your contractor, along with the Certificate of Occupancy. Ensure staff understands their importance and store them in a safe, accessible place.
For Landlords and Tenant Coordinators
Maintain an organized record of tenant drawings and be open to sharing them with future tenants. Ideally, landlords could maintain updated building backgrounds to streamline future renovations.
For Cities
Offer remote access to building records and improve turnaround times for document requests. Digitization efforts could revolutionize this process.
For Architects
We play a pivotal role in educating landlords, tenants, and contractors on the importance of as-built drawings. By emphasizing the value of maintaining accurate records, we can help foster a more organized and efficient industry.
Create Memorable Commercial Spaces with Erin Morris
It’s clear that as-built drawings are vital for the success of any interior renovation or tenant improvement project. However, their potential is only realized when they’re accurate, accessible, and updated. By improving how these records are maintained and shared, we can save time, reduce waste, and ensure smoother processes for everyone involved.
At Erin Morris, we prioritize due diligence and advocate for better practices across the industry. If you’re considering a new project, let’s talk about how our expertise and collaborative approach can make a difference.