How to choose a MEP engineer?

Working with the right MEP engineering company can greatly improve your building's performance. Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems create a suitable indoor environment for humans, but they can also consume a lot of water and energy. Ideally, MEP systems should fulfill their function with the lowest possible operating cost.

MEP engineering is the science and art of planning, designing and managing a building's mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. MEP design firms specialize in these skills and play a key role during all phases of construction. Some of your duties during a project include decision making, cost estimating, construction administration, and construction management.

Improve indoor air quality with professional MEP engineering services.

Why should you include an MEP engineering company in your project?

MEP engineers can maximize the performance of a new construction or renovation project while minimizing costs and providing long-term value. MEP companies analyze individual building systems within the overall project context. By doing so, they can determine the systems that best integrate with the building's architecture. MEP engineering companies can help you with the following technical challenges:

• Improve aspects such as lighting, heating, cooling and environmental performance while maintaining design integrity and aesthetics.
• Reducing operation and maintenance costs throughout the life of the building.
• Minimizing construction and energy costs.
• Meet environmental requirements while promoting water and energy conservation.
• Solving plumbing and wastewater management problems.

Many services fall into the MEP design and engineering category. Many engineering companies provide MEP services, but only a few have the expertise to cover all areas. The following table summarizes the main MEP services required for a construction project.

The benefits of MEP consultancy are many and go beyond those directly involved in construction. Building occupants and the wider community benefit from greater safety, comfort, aesthetics, value and reliability.

Choosing an MEP Engineering Company

The services of an MEP consulting firm have a long-term impact on a project. The planning and design decisions that occur during the initial phase of a project can make the difference between success and failure. As with any business partnership, choosing the right company will increase the chances of success, and here are some elements to consider:

• Level of innovation and creativity that the design company brings to the project. Innovation and creativity can fall by the wayside due to standard detailing and traditional design thinking. Additionally, some projects are rushed to begin construction as quickly as possible or are seen as just a necessary step toward project approval. As a client, be sure to select a company that exceeds minimum building code performance while integrating creative alternatives. Find out about the quality of the work provided, ask about previous projects and get opinions from previous clients.
• Communication skills that the company offers to the project. Written documentation and the ability to verbalize concepts are fundamental to a successful project. The company's reputation plays an important role, so ask for references. Project communication is an often overlooked aspect, but the Project Management Body of Knowledge devotes an entire chapter to the topic.
• The ability to design within budget, adding value to the project. From the customer's perspective, a successful project provides value that exceeds the cost incurred. This could be the result of increased productivity, energy efficiency, increased employee morale, etc. Keep in mind that design and construction represent only a fraction of the project cost, but additional upfront investments can yield much greater savings over time. As mentioned previously, check the company's project portfolio and ask about professional credentials, such as LEED.
• Collaboration between the design team and the client team. It's important to meet with the design team to determine how they would work with you. Schedule all necessary meetings to ensure project requirements are clear and to resolve any concerns. Establish direct communication with senior MEP company engineers to resolve any major concerns.
• Be able to deliver quality within the project schedule. Regardless of the size of the company, the assigned team determines the delivery of the project on time and within budget. Evaluate the company's design management approach, collaboration approach, and design leadership over time.

Projects with strong management and design leadership are often better able to manage costs and schedules. Additionally, learn about the MEP company's design history so you can feel comfortable and trust them with your building design.