Turnover & closeout
Commissioning (Cx)
Commissioning is the structured process of confirming that building systems (HVAC, controls, fire protection, standby power, plumbing) are installed correctly and perform to the owner's project requirements, not just that the equipment is present and powered. It runs from checking each device against its installation criteria through functional performance testing of the system as a whole. On most projects a commissioning agent leads it and issues a report of what was tested and what passed.
Run it with the Photo Gate
HVAC final inspection checklist
14 items · 14 photos required
Why it matters
Equipment that is installed is not the same as equipment that works together as designed. Commissioning is where sequence-of-operation problems, unbalanced air, controls fighting each other, and standby power that will not transfer under load get caught before the owner finds them the hard way after move-in.
How it shows up on site
It layers on top of the trade inspections: pre-functional checklists confirm each unit was installed and started up correctly, then functional performance tests drive the system through its modes to prove the sequences respond. Failures become commissioning issues that get corrected and retested.
The record of pre-functional checklists, functional test scripts marked pass or fail, and the corrections that closed the failures is a core part of what the owner receives at turnover.
Guides that use it
- How to inspect a fire alarm systemObserve and document fire alarm work at rough-in and final (devices, circuits, coverage and mounting), knowing the licensed tech and AHJ run the required acceptance test.
- How to inspect an elevator installationInspect an elevator installation as the GC (hoistway, machine room, entrances, fire and life-safety interfaces, and readiness) while the licensed inspector and AHJ certify the equipment.
- How to inspect a solar PV installationInspect a rooftop solar PV installation as the GC (roof attachment and flashing, racking, DC and AC wiring, and interfaces) while the licensed electrician and AHJ certify the electrical system.
- How to run commissioning at closeoutSupport the commissioning agent as they verify systems perform as designed: schedule the tests, get systems ready, and document the functional performance tests and issues.
Standards it's verified against
Checklists that put commissioning (cx) to work
Free, field-ready checklists, each with the photo every item needs before it can be submitted.
Related terms
- Functional performance testA scripted test that drives a system through its operating modes to prove it responds the way the sequence of operations requires.
- Turnover packageThe set of documents and records handed to the owner or operator so they can run and maintain the completed building.
- Closeout packageThe compiled record proving the work was completed, inspected, and accepted, assembled to close out the contract.
- Substantial completionThe milestone where the work is usable for its intended purpose, even with minor punch items still open.
- Site acceptance test (SAT)A test that re-proves equipment performs to spec after it is installed and connected on site, following the earlier factory acceptance test.
- ValidationConfirming the finished work actually performs its intended function: checking you built the right thing, not just built it to spec.
Knowing the term is step one. Proving it is the job.
RTI holds the submit button until every mandatory item is answered and the photos are attached, then chains the record so it can be proven untouched later.
30-day trial · No card required