FAQIntroduction
The Construction Documentation (CD) phase is the bridge between an architect’s vision and the physical building. These technical drawings are scrutinized by city planners, structural engineers, and general contractors.
Because CDs serve as a legally binding contract and the sole basis for securing building permits, accuracy is paramount. In this FAQ guide, we address the most common questions surrounding the creation, coordination, and submission of Construction Documents and Permit Drawings.
Key Takeaways
Key Takeaways
General Construction Documentation Questions
1. What are Construction Documents (CDs)?
Construction Documents are a comprehensive set of architectural and engineering drawings, combined with a written Project Manual (specifications), that detail exactly how a building is to be constructed.
2. What is the difference between Design Development (DD) and CDs?
Design Development (DD) finalizes the size, character, and materials of the building. CDs take that finalized design and add the granular technical details (wall sections, fastening methods, exact dimensions) required for a contractor to build it.
3. What is typically included in an architectural CD set?
- Cover Sheet (Code Matrix, Site Location, Sheet Index)
- Life Safety / Egress Plans
- Floor Plans & Roof Plans
- Exterior & Interior Elevations
- Building & Wall Sections
- Reflected Ceiling Plans (RCPs)
- Enlarged Plans & Details (1/2“ or larger scale)
- Door, Window, and Room Finish Schedules
4. What are “Issued for Construction” (IFC) drawings?
After the permit is approved by the city (which often results in minor redline changes), the architect updates the CD set and reissues it to the General Contractor as the official “Issued for Construction” (IFC) set.
5. Why do CDs take so long to produce?
Drafting CDs is incredibly labor-intensive. It requires cross-referencing thousands of dimensions, coordinating with structural and MEP engineers to prevent spatial clashes, and detailing complex waterproofing and structural assemblies.
Permitting and Code Questions
6. What are Permit Drawings?
Permit Drawings are a specific iteration of the CD set submitted to the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) to prove the design complies with local building codes, zoning laws, and life-safety regulations.
7. Do Permit Drawings need to be 100% complete?
Usually, yes (or at least 95%). However, in some “fast-track” projects, an architect might submit a “Foundation Only” permit package to begin digging while the rest of the architectural details are finalized.
8. Why do permit drawings get rejected?
The most common reasons for rejection include: missing egress calculations, lack of ADA clearance documentation, missing fire-rating designations on walls, or discrepancies between the architectural and structural plans.
9. What is a Code Matrix?
A Code Matrix is a table placed on the cover sheet of the permit set. It clearly lists the applicable building codes (e.g., IBC 2021), occupancy classification, construction type, square footage, and whether the building is sprinklered.
10. Does a CAD drafter stamp the permit drawings?
No. While a CAD drafting firm (like Core BIM Solutions) can produce 100% of the linework and details, the final drawings must be reviewed and legally stamped by a licensed Architect or Engineer of Record.
Software and Technical Questions
11. Are CDs drafted in AutoCAD or Revit?
Both are used extensively. AutoCAD remains a powerful tool for 2D detailing and smaller projects. However, Revit (3D BIM) is the modern standard for commercial projects because it automates coordination (e.g., moving a door in the plan automatically updates the elevation and the schedule).
12. What are “Redlines”?
Redlines are corrections or modifications marked up on a drawing (traditionally with a red pen, now digitally using Bluebeam Revu). A senior architect redlines a drawing, and a junior drafter (or outsourced team) executes the “pickups” in CAD.
13. How do you prevent clashes between disciplines?
The modern approach is to federate the 3D architectural, structural, and MEP Revit models in Navisworks. The software runs automated clash detection, ensuring that a massive HVAC duct does not intersect with a steel beam.
14. What are standard drafting scales for CDs?
- Floor Plans: 1/8“ = 1’-0“ or 1/4“ = 1’-0“
- Wall Sections: 3/4“ = 1’-0“
- Details: 1-1/2“ = 1’-0“ or 3“ = 1’-0“
15. What are Specifications (Specs)?
Specifications are the written companion to the drawings, bound in a Project Manual. If the drawings show where a material goes, the specs dictate exactly what that material is, how it should be installed, and the required warranty.
Outsourcing Construction Documents
16. Can I outsource the drafting of my CDs?
Yes. Outsourcing CD production is a primary strategy for architectural firms looking to scale without hiring dozens of full-time drafters.
17. How does the outsourcing workflow operate?
The architect designs the building through the DD phase and sends the 50% complete files to the outsourcing partner. The external CAD/Revit team drafts the heavy details, sections, and schedules, sending progress sets back to the architect for redline review.
18. Will the outsourced CDs match our firm’s graphical style?
Yes. A professional drafting partner will utilize your exact AutoCAD CTB files (line weights), Revit templates, and standard detail libraries so the final output is indistinguishable from your internal work.
19. How much does it cost to outsource CDs?
It is typically 40% to 60% cheaper than utilizing in-house staff. Pricing is usually based on an hourly rate or a fixed lump sum calculated by the project’s square footage and the required Level of Development (LOD).
20. How do I ensure quality control when outsourcing?
Choose a partner that enforces a strict internal QA/QC checklist before submitting proofs. Additionally, maintain control by requiring submittals at the 50%, 75%, and 90% completion milestones.
Conclusion
Producing flawless Construction Documents is the most critical technical challenge in the architectural process. By understanding the permitting requirements, leveraging 3D BIM coordination, and strategically outsourcing the heavy production drafting, firms can protect their profit margins and ensure their designs are built exactly as intended.
Call to Action
Are your senior architects spending too much time drafting door schedules? Contact Core BIM Solutions today to learn how our outsourced CAD and Revit drafting services can accelerate your Construction Documentation phase.
