We provide
Construction Documents Plan Review, Constructability, Interdisciplinary Coordination Building Code Compliance, Access Compliance Peer Review, Design and LEED Standards.
Constructability
The focus of a constructability review is on the completeness of the plans and detailing, the logic of detailing for scheduling of trades, the logic of construction phasing, and general bid-ability and build-ability.
- It must be physically possible to do given the constraints of tools and human hands
- Detail to prevent leaks – think like a drop of water
- Staging, storage and phasing need to be logically accommodated
- Don’t make the contractor guess or perform miracles that defy the laws of physics
Coordination
The points of interface between the different disciplines – architectural, structural, civil, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, telecom, equipment, landscape and specialty consultants – account for over 50% of errors and omissions.
- Two or more solid objects cannot occupy the same physical space
- Features shown must be in the same place and be the same size on all documents
- Make sure everything fits in the space that it is given
- BIM can’t find clashes with systems that are not in the model
Code Compliance
Codes are the minimum standard for structural safety, fire and life safety, materials standards, ADA accessibility standards, and “healthy” buildings for human occupancy.
- A structural system must be strong enough to resist earthquakes/ hurricanes/ strong winds and its own dead weight
- In case of fire or other emergency, one must be able to get out fast and easily
- Universal accessibility makes life easier for us all
Design Standards
Institutions with multiple facilities typically prefer standardization wherever possible. It simplifies both maintenance and facility operations.
- Guideline design standards insure interoperability
- Standard technical specifications must not be altered without approval of all parties
- Standard details are developed by facility owners and operators to fit their needs and experience
LEED/Green Standards
LEED and the new Green Codes promote a whole-building approach to sustainability by recognizing performance in five key areas of human and environmental health: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality.
- Verify that credits in the LEED application made it into the plans and specifications
- For California schools, verify CHPS requirements
- Verify local Green ordinances and other sustainability requirements
Inspector of Record
In Southern California only, full time inspection services as required by the Division of the State Architect (DSA) are available to K-12 school districts and junior college districts.
- DSA Certified Class 1
- Excellent rapport with both Los Angeles and San Diego field offices
- Verification that what is in the approved construction documents is actually what is built
- Close-out assistance
