Most contractors understand why as-built drawings matter. Fewer have a consistent, practical process for creating them on every job. This checklist gives you a concrete framework you can use on any project — from a small residential renovation to a commercial fit-out.
Before work starts
Use this checklist when you first arrive on site, before any work begins:
- ☐ Photograph the overall site and all spaces as found
- ☐ Document all existing MEP visible — panels, pipes, ductwork in exposed areas
- ☐ Note and photograph any pre-existing damage or conditions not caused by your work
- ☐ Record existing dimensions for any spaces being modified (or run Orbit Measure for spaces where a 3D record is valuable)
- ☐ Photograph all existing equipment with model and serial numbers visible
- ☐ Note any discrepancies between existing conditions and the drawings you were given
During rough-in (before any covering)
This is the critical documentation window. Before any wall, ceiling, or floor closes:
- ☐ Photograph every pipe run — full routing from connection to connection, not just the box
- ☐ Photograph every wire run and conduit path
- ☐ Photograph every junction box location (including concealed ones)
- ☐ Photograph ductwork before ceiling installation — each section, branch, and transition
- ☐ Photograph structural framing modifications — especially headers, blocking, and new members
- ☐ Photograph rebar and embedments before pours
- ☐ Photograph underground utilities before backfill
- ☐ Document any field modifications to the design — note what changed and why
During construction (ongoing)
Throughout the project:
- ☐ Document any scope changes as they happen with dated photos
- ☐ Photograph each milestone completion — framing, rough-in, drywall, finishes
- ☐ Note any RFI resolutions that affect field conditions
- ☐ Update the project notes with any changes to original design intent
At completion (close-out walkthrough)
- ☐ Walk every room — photograph each wall, ceiling, and floor in the completed space
- ☐ Photograph all MEP in visible locations (mechanical rooms, utility spaces, exposed systems)
- ☐ Photograph all access panels and cleanouts
- ☐ Photograph all equipment — model numbers, serial numbers, locations
- ☐ Photograph completed panel schedules for all electrical panels
- ☐ Run Orbit Measure in key spaces if dimensional accuracy is required for handover
- ☐ Review the complete photo set — confirm you have rough-in documentation for everything that was covered
Delivery to owner
- ☐ Generate PDF report from Manifold — all photos with GPS data and timestamps
- ☐ Share via link or PDF download
- ☐ Confirm the owner has received and can access the package
- ☐ Archive your own copy — as-builts may be referenced years later
Using this checklist in Manifold
You can build this checklist directly in Manifold's checklist tool. Every item requires a photo before it can be marked complete, creating an automatic audit trail of what was documented and when. At the end of any project, the completed checklist plus the photo library forms your as-built package.
Photo plan: $16/user/month. Photo+Scan with Orbit Measure: $24/user/month. No seat minimums. Free trial, no credit card.
Start your free trial or book a demo.
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