What is the purpose of “as-built” drawings?

The purpose of “as-built” drawings is to accurately reflect the changes made to a project during the construction process. These drawings serve as a record of what was actually constructed, including modifications and deviations from the original design. They incorporate all alterations, updates, or corrections that occurred throughout the project's execution, ensuring that the final documentation showcases the actual constructed work, rather than what was initially planned.

This is crucial for various reasons. For future maintenance and renovations, having a precise representation of the built structure allows for better planning and execution of further work. It is also valuable for legal considerations, as it provides a factual basis for any disputes regarding the construction.

The other choices, such as showing proposed designs, documenting materials, or providing a summary of project costs, do not relate to the primary function of as-built drawings. Proposed designs pertain to what is intended rather than what was built, while materials documentation and project costs are typically covered by different aspects of project documentation, such as specifications or cost estimates.