Contractors must provide comprehensive documentation supporting commissioning activities, functional testing, and long-term building operations, documentation requirements specified in commissioning specifications.
Submittals form the foundation of commissioning documentation. Contractors provide:
• Equipment submittals with complete technical data, performance curves, specifications, wiring diagrams, control sequences, and startup procedures
• Control system submittals, including points lists, sequence narratives, network architecture, graphics screenshots, and programming documentation
• Installation and testing procedures for specialized systems requiring specific installation protocols
Commissioning authorities review submittals for design compliance and flag issues requiring correction before equipment purchase or installation.
Pre-Functional Checklists demonstrate contractor quality control and equipment readiness for testing. Contractors complete detailed checklists for each commissioned equipment, verifying:
• Installation per specifications and approved submittals
• All components present and properly connected
• Startup procedures completed per manufacturer requirements
• Safety controls tested and functional
• Sequence of operations programmed correctly
• All required documentation received
Completed checklists with contractor signatures confirm readiness for commissioning authority functional testing.
Startup Reports document manufacturer-supervised equipment startup for major equipment (chillers, boilers, cooling towers, generators, etc.). Reports include:
• Date and personnel present during startup
• Procedures performed and results
• Equipment settings and adjustments made
• Performance measurements and operating conditions
• Deficiencies identified requiring correction
• Manufacturer signatures confirming proper startup
Test, Adjust, and Balance (TAB) Reports from certified test and balance agencies document airflow, water flow, and system balance. Commissioning authorities use TAB data during functional testing to verify systems meet design flow rates and performance requirements. This also include NETA electrical testing often by a qualified subcontractor working for the Electrical Contractor and/or GC/CM.
Control System Documentation provided by controls contractors includes:
• As-programmed sequences of operation
• Points lists with descriptions and addresses
• Network architecture and communication diagrams
• BAS graphics and trending capabilities
• Alarm setpoints and notification protocols
• Password information and access levels
• User manuals and training materials
• Energy management system programming backup
Progress Documentation during construction includes:
• Installation photos at key stages
• Manufacturer certifications for specialized installations
• Field test results (duct leakage, pipe pressure tests, electrical testing)
• Deviation documentation explaining field changes from drawings
As-Built Documentation compiled at project completion includes:
• As-built drawings reflecting field conditions
• Complete O&M manuals for all equipment
• Warranty documentation with registration information
• Spare parts lists and special tools inventory
• Training materials and operator manuals
• Energy management system programming backup
Deficiency Response Documentation tracks commissioning-identified issues:
• Deficiency descriptions and impacts
• Corrective actions taken
• Retest results confirming correction
• Completion dates and responsible parties
Contractor documentation quality directly affects commissioning efficiency. Complete, accurate documentation accelerates commissioning; poor documentation causes delays, repeated information requests, and extended commissioning timelines.
For guidance on commissioning documentation requirements and contractor specifications, contact Catalyst Commissioning Group at info@catalystcx.com.