What is the submittal process in construction?

Submittals are documents provided by contractor demonstrating compliance with specifications before work proceeds. Types include shop drawings (fabrication details), product data (manufacturer literature), samples (physical specimens), and certifications. Process: contractor prepares submittal, submits to architect/engineer for review, reviewer checks compliance and returns with status (approved, approved as noted, revise and resubmit, rejected). Approved submittals authorize fabrication and installation. Submittals ensure quality and coordination before installation.