Commissioning Systems

High-quality buildings require high-performing building & commissioning systems. Commissioning (Cx) is a systematic process for achieving, verifying, and documenting that the building systems are not only properly designed and constructed, but that they also operate as intended. SKA provides traditional mechanical, electrical and plumbing commissioning (MEP Cx), as well as Building Envelope Commissioning (BECx).

SKA uses a web-based document management program to facilitate the exchange of information between the various members of the commissioning team. This program helps manage and organize the large amount of information and documentation associated with the commissioning process including:

  • Owner’s project requirements
  • Basis of design
  • Commissioning plan
  • Functional test checklists
  • MEP Commissioning Services
  • Design reviews
  • Submittal review logs
  • Field observation reports
  • Commissioning report
  • American Concrete
  • AAMP
  • ABAA
  • ASCE Civil Engineering
  • Ashrae
  • International Concrete Institute
  • IBEC Building Enclosure
  • MEP Commissioning Services | SKA

FEATURED PROJECTS

Frequently Asked Questions
What is MEP commissioning?

MEP commissioning is a systematic process for verifying that a building's mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems are designed, installed, and operating according to the owner's project requirements. SKA Consulting Engineers provides MEP commissioning services for new construction and major renovations across North Carolina, South Carolina, and the Southeast, covering functional testing, design reviews, and final commissioning reports.

What is the difference between MEP commissioning and building envelope commissioning?

MEP commissioning focuses on the building's mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems — HVAC, electrical distribution, plumbing, and fire protection. Building envelope commissioning (BECx) verifies the performance of the exterior enclosure — walls, windows, roofing, and air and moisture barriers. SKA provides both MEP Cx and BECx under one service line, so the entire building performance is evaluated by a single commissioning team.

When should commissioning start on a construction project?

Commissioning should begin during the design phase, not after construction is complete. Starting early allows the commissioning agent to review the owner's project requirements, evaluate the basis of design, and catch system conflicts before they become costly field changes. SKA's commissioning process includes design-phase document review, submittal review, field observation during construction, and functional performance testing before occupancy.

What does a commissioning consultant deliver at the end of a project?

A commissioning consultant delivers a commissioning report that documents the entire process — including the owner's project requirements, basis of design, commissioning plan, functional test results, field observation reports, and any outstanding issues. SKA uses a web-based document management system to organize and share commissioning documentation with owners, architects, contractors, and the full project team throughout the process.

What types of buildings need commissioning services?

Any new construction or major renovation benefits from commissioning, but it is especially critical for healthcare facilities, higher education buildings, performing arts centers, and multi-family housing where system performance directly affects occupant comfort, safety, and energy efficiency. SKA has provided MEP and envelope commissioning for projects including the Steven Tanger Center for Performing Arts, UNC Health Blue Ridge Hospital, and Roper St. Francis Berkley Hospital Addition.

How do I find MEP commissioning consultants for my project?

Look for a commissioning firm with in-house MEP and building envelope expertise, experience with your building type, and a documented commissioning process that starts during design. SKA Consulting Engineers provides commissioning consulting from offices in Greensboro, NC, serving healthcare, higher education, municipal, and commercial projects throughout the Carolinas and Southeast.