As-built drawings are legally required in many contexts, though requirements vary by jurisdiction, project type, and building use.
When As-Builts Are Legally Required
1. Government and Federal Projects
- GSA (General Services Administration) requires BIM as-builts for all new federal buildings
- DoD (Department of Defense) mandates as-built documentation per UFC 1-300-09
- USACE (Army Corps of Engineers) requires as-built drawings for all construction projects
- Most state DOT projects require as-built survey documentation
2. Building Code Compliance
- Many municipalities require as-built drawings before issuing a Certificate of Occupancy
- Fire marshal offices often require as-built documentation showing fire suppression systems
- MEP as-builts may be required for mechanical permit closeout
- ADA compliance verification may require as-built measurements
3. OSHA Requirements
- Process Safety Management (PSM) requires accurate facility documentation for hazardous material facilities
- Emergency action plans benefit from accurate as-built floor plans
- OSHA citations have been issued for inadequate facility documentation during incidents
4. Insurance and Liability
- Commercial property insurance may require as-built documentation for coverage
- Professional liability (E&O) claims often reference whether as-builts were available
- Post-loss documentation is strengthened by pre-existing as-built records
5. Contractual Requirements
- AIA contract documents (A201) typically require contractor as-builts
- Most construction contracts include as-built deliverable requirements
- Facility management contracts may require accurate building documentation
When As-Builts Are NOT Required (But Recommended)
- Small residential renovations (varies by jurisdiction)
- Interior-only commercial tenant improvements (check local requirements)
- Maintenance and repair work (no structural changes)
How 3D Scanning Improves As-Built Documentation Traditional as-builts rely on contractors marking up drawings during construction — a process prone to omissions and inaccuracies. 3D laser scanning captures actual as-built conditions with ±2-4mm accuracy, providing definitive documentation that serves legal, insurance, and compliance needs.
THE FUTURE 3D delivers survey-grade 3D scan data for as-built documentation projects nationwide. Contact us for a free project consultation.