Commissioning Provider

If you are considering the commissioning process for your building, you may be wondering where to begin. In general, you need only know your goals, as the commissioning agent you choose will guide you through the process. However, even finding an agent can be a daunting task. Though there are no strict rules when it comes to retaining the services of a commissioning provider, here are a few tips to help you get started.

The number of firms offering commissioning services is large and continues to grow every day; but finding the right one can be difficult. One key characteristic to look for in a commissioning agent is the firm’s dedication to 3rd party commissioning. It is best to contract with a firm that offers commissioning services as its core business practice, rather than one that offers commissioning as a “value added service” or as a side service. Firm membership in professional organizations such as the Building Commissioning Association (BCA), Associated Air Balance Council Commissioning Group (ACG), and others, is an indication that the firm has access to standardized procedures, continuing education opportunities, and the most up to date best practices. Pay particular attention to the certifications of the professionals within the organization and the length of time the organization has been an active member. However, membership in a professional organization does not guarantee integrity, nor does it insure that quality work will be provided;, so consider other factors, as well.

Pay particular attention to the firm’s and individual’s length and diversity of experience. If your need is for existing building commissioning, ensure the prospective agent has sufficient experience with existing building commissioning for the particular building type and scope you need (LEED EBOM, office building, retail, broadcast, health care, transportation, mission critical, reliability commissioning, energy reduction commissioning, operational commissioning, etc.) If your need is for new building commissioning, ensure the prospective agent has sufficient experience with new building commissioning for the particular building type and scope you need (LEED commissioning for office building, retail, broadcast, health care, transportation, etc.; Reliability and operability commissioning for other facilities including the mechanical systems, electrical systems, life safety systems, vertical transportation systems, building exteriors, etc.) Request the prospective commissioning provider to submit a list of previous clients with contact information. References and testimonials from past clients can help build your confidence in a specific company, and most experienced providers know this. For this reason, most commissioning service providers will likely have a list of references ready for you to peruse. To get the best idea of how a particular agent works, you should ask specific and relevant questions of the references and have the prospective commissioning agent provide a copy of a commissioning plan, or a commissioning report, or an issues log from a previous project. The ability to read thorough and professional documents should instill your confidence in a potential agent. In addition, it will allow you to determine if the agent handles issues in a professional manner. On the other hand, if the agent refuses to provide documentation, or offers a sloppy, sparse report, your decision should become clear. Either way, paying attention to the commissioning provider’s past will help you select the best one for you.

For new building commissioning, the building owner, design team, and the construction manager are just a few of the people who will need to have contact with the selected commissioning agent. For this reason, it is vitally important to choose an agent that is professional, is an effective communicator, and will ultimately enhance the design/construct team chemistry.. The commissioning process is often long, and for it to go smoothly, everyone involved should know what they are doing and have the same goals in mind, which is why it is crucial to select the right provider for the job.