n every construction project, it is normal to have to modify or adapt elements of the original design. These adjustments are common during construction and must be addressed skillfully to ensure that the project is completed as planned. As-built drawings are used to help accurately document the changes made.
C2B Platform allows the verification of As-Built models. You can use its technology to perform checks and verifications of the BIM model and also confirm that no elements are omitted during the modeling of the project.
What are as built plans?
As-built refers to the precise documentation and recording of modifications and alterations carried out during the construction of a project. It provides an updated and accurate representation of the final state of a built structure.
As construction progresses, as-built drawings are created to document the current status of the project and any deviations or changes made in relation to the original plans and designs.
These drawings should allow a comparison between the initial project design and the actual implementation, clearly illustrating any modifications that have been made.
Furthermore, it is crucial for the as-built drawings to be accompanied by comprehensive descriptions and calculations necessary for the modifications to the original project. As well as the corresponding approvals that authorized the changes to be implemented.
Key benefits of as-built drawings
As-built drawings provide many advantages by offering accurate, up-to-date documentation. This clarity supports project professionals throughout construction and future maintenance stages. Some key benefits include:
Compliance assurance: By cross-verifying real models with design models, as-builts help confirm that the completed project aligns with compliance standards.
Error management: BIM validation software helps control IFC data at each stage, providing quality reports that highlight any discrepancies and prevent costly errors.
Anomaly detection: Early detection of issues can prevent costly revisions by addressing potential errors before they escalate.
Enhanced quality control: Ensures defects are resolved before final project delivery, promoting a high-quality outcome.
How to create an as-built plan
As-built plans are created by identifying and documenting any changes, adaptations, and additions made to the original project plans.
During this process, the “red line” code is followed, where red lines are used as markers to indicate added elements, while annotations are used to explain the modifications. Additionally, the design team may include other relevant records they consider necessary.
To provide visual reference of the construction changes, photographs can also be integrated into the as-built drawings. This practice proves highly convenient and efficient in clearly illustrating the modifications made during the construction stages.
It is crucial for these final plans to be detailed, accurate, and specific technical documents. This is essential to ensure that any changes in project specifications can be clearly understood in the future, whether by other professionals like architects or engineers, or by the users of the structure or facility.
As-built documentation: why is it necessary?
Upon project completion, it is rare for the finished work to precisely match the original design due to various factors. Changes in circumstances, budgetary constraints, evaluation errors, and unforeseen setbacks during construction often necessitate a review and modification of the work.
Even with a smooth construction process and the implementation of advanced methodologies like BIM or VDC, there may still be slight deviations between the final building and the original design.
Therefore, it is crucial to update the design and related information to accurately reflect the actual conditions and create a digital twin of the building that matches the built reality.
In summary, as-built documentation serves several purposes:
- Demonstrating compliance with contractual conditions for what has been built.
- Providing an up-to-date information model that accurately represents the current state of construction.
- Establishing a reliable foundation for future maintenance work.
- Ensuring the interests of clients and contractors are safeguarded and protected.
- Equipping future professionals involved with comprehensive and updated information about the construction.
The reports includes
As-built reports capture modifications made during the construction phase, accurately representing the final built structure. They document the placement of every component, including doors, walls, windows, and other structural details. Typically, these reports include annotated drawings, precise measurements, and detailed notes about on-site changes.
CHECKTOBUILD’s as-built reporting service offers a convenient way to track progress. The service monitors completion percentages, element statuses, and the overall project model. Customized PDF reports, available within 24-48 hours, provide clear records of tolerance and analysis for structural elements, including concrete placement and MEP installations.
Why the documentation matters for future projects
Accurate as-built documentation is not only vital for current project quality but also serves as a valuable resource for future work on the building. The information captured helps architects, designers, and contractors understand exactly what was built. This supports maintenance work, potential renovations, and even legal documentation needs.
In summary, as-built reports serve as a trusted record of the completed project, documenting all modifications and ensuring the quality of the work. With as-built documentation, future professionals are well-prepared with reliable, detailed information on the building’s structure and systems.