The Importance Of As-built Plans For Construction Projects

By Author: nick ston
Total Articles: 8
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As-built plans and related services are some of the least known processes involved in the completion of a construction or renovation project. Most of the general public know only about blueprints and other pre construction plans and do not have a good idea on why as-builtsare one of the most important building plans you should have.


What As-builtsAre



Generally speaking, as-built plans are the set of drawings and illustrations that represents the building or expansions as it they have been built, hence the name “as-built”. Blueprints are useful as they were the guide used by the constructors to build the building but because they have been drawn before the structures were built, they may not accurately reflect the final appearance of the building or extension after they have been built. An as-built survey is often done as one of the final steps in a construction project.


How As-builts are Made and Used


There are many techniques employed for creating accurate as-built plans and their efficiency and general effectiveness will depend ...
... on the construction or renovation project they are used in. Some constructors use a copy of the original blueprints and apply standard notations on any deviations or additions that have been approved and built and these notes are employed in the finalization of as-built plans. Sometimes this cannot be possible or feasible and during these instances, an As Built Survey must be conducted to ensure that everything built is included in the plans.


As-builtsare important because they are used as a primary reference for future maintenance and renovation tasks on a site of building. Having and incorrect or un-updated as-built plan may lead to accidents and unwanted damage during these activities. Some examples of possible mishaps include broken piping such as water mains and sewer lines, cut power lines which can lead to fire hazards, damage to insulation and air ducting, and many more. As-builtsare also required by many government agencies, both and national, during inspections or as an after record for archiving.As-builtsare an important set of plans to have at hand and home and building owners should ensure that they have an updated and accurate one for future renovations and building inspections.