The traditional commissioning timeline can span from early design through post-occupancy. Each of these phases can vary from weeks to months to years, depending on project delivery model, size, type, phased approach, etc.
Design phase commissioning can include the development of an essential Owners Project Requirements (OPR) document, review and alignment of the Basis of Design with the OPR, SD-DD-CD Phase Documents Review, development and integration of Commissioning Specifications and requirements in Division 1 and other appropriate specifications sections, and commissioning plan creation. These activities occur concurrently with design development and don’t extend design phase schedules. This typically takes several weeks to months, but for larger, more complicated projects can also take a year or more with redesign and value engineering exercises.
Construction phase commissioning involves submittal reviews, site observations, pre-functional checklists, and functional performance testing. Most activities align with construction milestones. Again, depending on project size and complexity, this can also take several months to years.
Functional testing is the most time-intensive phase, typically requiring 2-8 weeks of concentrated effort near construction completion. Testing duration will depend on building size, system complexity, and the number of systems to be commissioned. A 50,000 square foot office building might require 2-3 weeks of testing, while a 500,000 square foot hospital could require 8-12 weeks.
Post-occupancy activities (typically 10-12 months after substantial completion) include seasonal testing, warranty reviews, and documentation finalization. These activities ensure systems perform correctly under all operating conditions.
Existing building commissioning, retro-commissioning, or re-commissioning proceeds faster, typically 3-6 months from investigation through implementation. While many observations and conservation measures implemented create immediate energy savings offsetting commissioning costs there is also age, deterioration, and modernization opportunities to consider which could require additional repair, replacement and/or upgrade costs. Certain projects may need to take into consideration safety, outage planning, and coordination with stakeholders/occupants.
Early commissioning integration prevents schedule delays. Projects attempting to add commissioning late in construction often experience schedule challenges and compressed testing periods that can compromise quality. Early identification of issues in design and construction can dramatically reduce financial exposure and rework.
For project timeline planning and commissioning schedule integration, contact Catalyst Commissioning Group at info@catalystcx.com.