Surveys and validations
In-depth assessment of
a building's operational performance
We specialise in providing an independent and professional evaluation focusing on the condition of MEP services, advising on the level of remedial work required to restore an installation into a maintainable, energy-efficient condition.
Updating mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems as part of a major renovation or capital planning makes sense—if it’s done right. Engineered Environment can help building owners make informed decisions on when and how to replace systems, based on a thorough study of the existing infrastructure and building requirements.
“A formal and systematic appraisal of the condition of an item in respect of its ability to perform its required function.”
BS3811 definition of a condition appraisal
Reporting
Fundamental to any survey is the quality of information communicated back to the client.
Following any intrusive survey, we provide detailed independent reports to cover the findings including;
-
Executive summary covering any evidence of key issues and defects
-
Detailed description of the installed plant and systems
-
Clearly detailed performance data with commissioning documentation
-
Limitations and obstructions that affect the scope of the inspection
-
Photographs of defects with problems specifically highlighted
-
A clear summary that provides the ability to prioritise remedial actions
-
Recommendations for further inspections where applicable
-
A full list of accessible and inaccessible areas
-
Appendices include test results and marked up drawings
System validations
We offer comprehensive and detailed validation surveys that assess a building's operational performance against its original design strategy indicating the potential life expectancy of plant and systems or to validate shell and core system performance prior to a category B fit out. Our M&E surveys can include the isolation of mechanical plant and electrical circuits for detailed inspections/tests.
Our specialist engineers and commissioning teams offer measurement and analysis of hydraulic and ventilation system flow and pressure validating previous balancing / commissioning.
Onsite and laboratory analysis of water quality in domestic and closed systems plus analysis of ventilation system condition.
Electrical inspections and testing of existing installations through varying methods.
Surveys can include pipework condition either by endoscopic inspection or even offsite examination by a metallurgist, boiler condition and operation, chiller condition and operation, temperature and humidity monitoring, water quality testing, Electrical Test and Inspection, Low Voltage Panel inspections, busbar testing, fire alarm including cause and effect testing, lighting level (including emergency) testing, electrical load monitoring and thermal imaging.
All commissioning and validation services are carried out by our highly trained team in compliance with CIBSE, BSRIA and Commissioning Specialists Association (CSA) guidance.
Pre-acquisition condition surveys
Conducted by our chartered services engineers, our survey reports cover all external and internal services. We will advise upon the condition of the plant, infrastructure and ancillaries, lifecycle costs, advice on refurbishment or improvements and repairing obligations.
Our Pre-Acquisition Survey service also includes:
-
Advice on statutory compliance matters
-
A review of all relevant technical documentation including maintenance records
-
Arranging for any follow up reports required by specialists
-
Consideration of potential dilapidations
-
Liaising with solicitors, agents and other advisers involved in the transaction
Landlord & tenant
dilapidation surveys
We inspect mechanical, electrical and public health installations against the repairing and reinstatement obligations in the lease, at lease end or during the term. Acting for landlords or tenants, we prepare or respond to the building services section of a schedule of dilapidations, with costed remedial works, and support negotiations with surveyors and solicitors.
Asset identification
surveys
We record each item of plant and equipment on site – location, type, make, model, serial number, capacity and condition – and tag assets where required. The resulting asset register can be imported into CAFM systems and planned maintenance schedules, and gives a reliable baseline for lifecycle planning.
Lifecycle, PPM & CAPEX surveys
We assess the condition and remaining life of building services plant against CIBSE Guide M benchmarks and produce a costed replacement programme, typically over 10 to 25 years. Works are prioritised by risk and condition, helping owners and facilities managers plan capital expenditure and set up or review planned preventive maintenance (PPM).