Commissioning is where controls projects either succeed or fail. A brand-new BAS with brilliant graphics still doesn't work if half the sensors are reading wrong, the sequences don't match the spec, and nobody trained the operators. Vertex commissions to a documented standard — ASHRAE Guideline 0 and Guideline 1.1 as the process framework, ASHRAE Standard 202 as the rigor benchmark — and we deliver written deliverables that let a third party audit our work. We commission systems we install, we commission systems other contractors installed, and we do retro-commissioning on existing buildings where the controls have drifted.
WHAT WE DELIVER
Pre-functional checklists
Per-controller and per-equipment checklists confirming installation completeness, power, network connectivity, controller programming load, point list completeness, and ready-for-test status. Signed off before functional testing begins.
Point-to-point checkout
Every input verified against a calibrated reference. Every output stroked or cycled and observed at the equipment. Every internal calculated point validated. Documented in a checkout matrix with pass/fail per point.
Functional performance testing
Scripted test scenarios per piece of equipment — startup, shutdown, mode transitions, alarm conditions, failure modes — run against the written sequence of operations. Results documented with screenshots and timestamps.
Integrated systems testing
Cross-system scenarios — fire alarm interlock, smoke control, generator start/transfer, life-safety sequences, and any cross-trade interaction — tested with the relevant trades present.
Owner training
Hands-on training delivered on the actual system, customized to the operator's day-to-day workflow. Schedule changes, setpoint adjustments, alarm acknowledgment, trend review, basic troubleshooting. Video recorded if requested.
Documentation turnover
As-built drawings, programmed sequences (printed and digital), points list, BACnet device list, network diagram, alarm setup, schedule setup, and an O&M manual that operators will actually open.
HOW WE WORK
Five stages we run on every commissioning project — adjustable to your timeline, but never skipped.
Design review
Review the sequence of operations, control system drawings, and points list before installation begins. Flag issues while they're still cheap to fix.
Pre-functional verification
Installation complete, controllers loaded, network up, points discoverable. Sign off pre-functional checklists before any testing.
Point-to-point checkout
Systematic verification of every point in the system. Calibration references, scaling validation, output observation at the equipment.
Functional performance testing
Run the test scripts against the sequence of operations. Document pass/fail with screenshots. Re-test after fixes.
Training and turnover
Operator training on the live system, documentation handoff, and a 30-day warranty period to catch issues that surface in real operation.
STANDARDS WE WORK TO
- ASHRAE Guideline 0-2019The Commissioning Process — the umbrella commissioning standard.
- ASHRAE Guideline 1.1-2007 (RA 2023)HVAC&R Technical Requirements for the Commissioning Process — the technical specifics for HVAC commissioning.
- ASHRAE Standard 202-2018Commissioning Process for Buildings and Systems — process rigor standard.
- ASHRAE Guideline 0.2-2024The Commissioning Process for Existing Systems and Assemblies — guides retro-commissioning work.
TYPICAL PROJECTS
Working with the CxA on a new building. We provide controls-side commissioning support — pre-functional checklists, point-to-point checkout, functional testing, and remedial work on punch list items.
Owner installed controls without a formal CxA process and isn't sure what works. We come in, audit the install, run point-to-point checkout and functional testing, deliver a written report, and remediate findings.
Building five years post-occupancy with comfort complaints and rising energy use. We re-verify sensors and sequences, identify drift, correct it, document findings, and stand up a tune-up cadence going forward.
Owner wants independent verification before signing off a contractor's controls work. We act as the owner's controls representative — independent functional testing and a written acceptance report.
RELEVANT CASE STUDIES
Medical Office BAS Upgrade: 200,000 sq ft
Full controls retrofit of a 200,000 sq ft medical office building from proprietary DDC to Niagara N4 with BACnet integration. 32% energy reduction in year one.
Industrial Facility Energy Optimization
Chiller plant and air handling optimization for an industrial facility. Submetering, demand response, and automated sequencing delivered 38% HVAC energy reduction.