Problem

Controls commissioning gets delayed or forgotten because electricians are late, mechanical is still working, and BAS is scheduled last. Result: rushed, incomplete commissioning or "temporary" setups that become permanent.

Root Cause

No clear coordination protocol between trades. BAS work often seen as optional "polishing" rather than critical path.

Solution

1. Create a Point-to-Point Verification Checklist

Before any wiring or programming starts, document every input/output:

Point ID	Location	Device	Type	Wiring Status	Programmed	Tested	Commissioned
AHU1_SAT	Roof	AHU1	Input	✓	✓	✓	✓

Sign off on each point only after it passes all stages.

2. Demand a Pre-Commissioning Coordination Meeting

Schedule 1 week before BAS work starts.

Attendees: Electrical contractor, HVAC contractor, Controls integrator, PM, Building Owner/Operator

Agenda:

• Review all wiring terminations and connections
• Confirm mechanical equipment is operational (fans running, valves moving)
• Confirm power is available to all devices
• Identify any conflicts

3. Create a "Controls Readiness Checklist"

Before controls tech starts:

• ☐ All equipment installed and running
• ☐ All wiring terminated and labeled (per design)
• ☐ All 24VAC power supplies confirmed operational
• ☐ Network cabling tested and verified (ping all devices)
• ☐ BACnet/RS-485 addresses assigned and unique
• ☐ Site survey completed (photos of equipment, wiring, layout)

4. Document Everything

• Photos of wiring, device labels, network setup
• PDF of final point list with addresses and descriptions
• Test results (proof that each point communicates)
• Operator manual and training materials