Why Use a Third Party?

Aren't I already paying for this service with my architect and engineering firm?

All projects are "commissioned" at some level. Informal commissioning, that is, commissioning by default or trial by fire, occurs on all projects. The issues are discovered when the building begins operation, leaving the maintenance staff to deal with it, or it just doesn't get fixed. Independent commissioning agents are advocates for the owner with no ties to the other players. Formal commissioning has a very rigorous testing process which ferrets out problems during the construction process. A few of the benefits follow:

• An Assurance Policy - When you commission building systems, the problems are discovered and addressed. Nothing is swept under the carpet, or delayed for lack of interest, or lack of time. System performance is proven. Owners are satisfied because their buildings are complete and performing well, prior to acceptance. Contractors and the design team have far fewer warranty issues to address.
• Indoor Air Quality is Improved - Deficiencies in the HVAC system are discovered early and corrected before people occupy the building, and before the building gets a history or reputation of being a "sick" building.
• Energy Consumption is Optimized - "A well-tuned auto consumes less fuel". Likewise, a well-tuned building consumes less electricity and gas. A properly commissioned building assures that its internal systems are operating at peak performance.
• Worker Productivity is Improved - Employees have less sick days, administrators are not taken away from their regular duties addressing contingencies such as sick employees and bad publicity.

Back to the Building Commissioning page.