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The Persistent Problems MEP Contractors Face MEP contractors need to plan and coordinate carefully. A design that doesn't properly account for MEP placement or any inaccurate project details can create serious challenges. Here are some of the problems MEP contractors face: Inaccurate or Incomplete Information Without a clear understanding of as-built conditions, it's difficult to install MEP systems to code and make sure relevant regulations are being adhered to. 8 It also makes determining the correct dimensions for mechanical equipment a challenge. If errors occur with measurement and dimensions, you could face the possibility of expensive rework, structural issues that impact other contractors' workflows, code violations, and major schedule delays as a result. Limited Visibility into the Project The overall design has to accurately account for MEP systems for the project to be successful, but MEP isn't always involved at this stage. Architects depend on an accurate understanding of where MEP systems will need to fit in before designs can be finalized, but if they're not getting you involved, you're powerless to catch issues before the design is finalized. Without visibility into existing conditions before construction starts, it's difficult to know if MEP is adequately accounted for in the design or can be efficiently placed and installed onsite. When you're not able to see and address problems at the design stage, you're left to manage them on the jobsite. This is especially critical since each MEP trade's work can impact the next because of how the different systems integrate or interact with each other. For example, to improve energy usage, lighting and ventilation may need to be integrated into the same building automation system and/or use the same sensors and controls, instead of being operated separately. Incorrect Prefabrication Prefabrication is increasingly popular because it helps address the shortage of skilled labor in construction by reducing labor needs. But when prefab work isn't accurate, it negates these benefits. When prefabricating ducts, pipes, electrical cable trays, and other components, you need precise and complete site measurements to ensure they fit within the structure. But when you don't have or can't easily obtain this information, your prefabricated components might not fit as expected, creating major problems during installation. At the same time, you may not have a precise way of ordering the right materials and sizes for prefabrication that match up with actual manufacturer products. If problems do crop up at the install stage, you're unable to solve them quickly or make the best decision on how to proceed without accurate as-built data or manufacturer information to refer back to. This leads to more wasted time, materials, and expense, and requires additional labor to resolve the problems. The need for the MEP contractor to redraw the consultant's design drawings affects the project deadlines and schedules negatively, which ultimately affects the budget. 9 Almost 90% of contractors perceive their prefabrication process as ineffective or in need of improvement. 10

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