Tenant improvements
Heating, cooling and ventilation for a suite build-out
New walls change where air needs to go. We redesign the duct and zones for the new layout, permit it, and have it finished and balanced before turnover.
Most suites have a ceiling plenum, a rooftop or split system and a landlord's rules about both. We read the lease exhibit first, then the plans.
Typical scope
New or revised duct and diffuser layout
Zones and thermostat locations for the new rooms
Reuse or replacement of the existing air handler, decided by a capacity check
Mechanical permit and rough-in inspection
Start-up, functional test and the air balance report
What drives the scope
What changes the scope of a suite
Two suites of the same size can need very different work.
The new layout
Conference rooms, server closets and open desks each load the air differently.
What the unit can carry
A capacity check tells us whether the existing equipment still fits the new plan.
Ceiling height and plenum space
Duct has to fit above the grid with the lights, sprinklers and cable tray.
Roof or shaft access
Cranes, curbs and shaft use are scheduled with the landlord.
Controls
Thermostat count, schedules and any link to the building's system.
Work hours
Some buildings only allow noisy work in the evening. We plan for that.
Questions about build-outs
Can you reuse the existing air handler?
Often. We run a capacity check against the new layout and tell you in the scope whether it fits, needs a new coil or needs replacing.
Do you coordinate with the sprinkler and electrical trades?
Yes. We mark our duct and equipment on the plans we send your contractor, and attend the ceiling coordination meeting when asked.
What if the layout changes after the permit?
We tell you what the change affects. A revised drawing may need a permit revision, and the bid shows it as a change, not a surprise.
Have plans, or only a lease exhibit?
Send either. We will tell you what we still need to see.