Originally Posted by
stelthorst
I guess I'm still confused as to what evil things we contractors (sorry I used the "C" word) are going to do with your files.
The simple fact is the "issued for construction" or "issued for bid" drawings are the official drawings for a project. A contractor (there's that "C" word again) can erase everything from the CAD drawings and it will not change what was bid or what is to be built.
We request CAD files in order to do our job quicker and more efficiently. As a detailer for a large electrical contractor it is my responsibility to look at the architectural, structural, civil, mechanical, plumbing, and fire sprinkler drawings and try to route my conduits and cable trays in a manner that is cost efficient to the company and does not conflict with the structure or any of the other trades.
Having the CAD drawings available allows me to xref all of the aforementioned drawings into my drawing and hopefully find a clear path. Not having CAD files available makes my job a lot more difficult and increases the chances of problems and conflicts during a project.
~climbs off soapbox~