As-built drawings differ from original plans primarily in what way?

As-built drawings serve a crucial purpose in the field of engineering and construction, reflecting the actual installation of components as they were built, rather than how they were originally intended to be designed. This distinction is significant because as-built drawings document any changes made during the construction process, capturing the real-world implementation of systems and structures.

For example, if modifications were made during construction due to unforeseen site conditions or design adjustments, these would be accurately reflected in the as-built drawings, which are essential for future maintenance, renovations, or evaluations of the infrastructure. This accurate representation aids in the effective management of water systems and ensures compliance with regulatory requirements.

In contrast, original plans are typically theoretical designs that can include idealized versions of the system, which may not account for practical modifications made during construction. Although they may provide a general understanding of the project, they do not serve the same purpose as as-built drawings. The other options, while they may contain elements related to construction documentation, do not accurately capture the primary distinguishing feature of as-built drawings.