If you are building a new building or home there are five major phases of construction that you should be aware of. Each of these phases gives you the opportunity to discuss with your electrical contractor so that you can ensure that everything is in order and going according to plan. Depending on your specific project some portions may not be necessary.
This article will guide you through each phase, and the questions to ask your electrician during every step. With these discussions, you can make sure that all of your electrical needs are met and safety is always a priority. Read on to learn more!
M.R. Electricians can provide you with the expertise necessary to carry out all of your electrical needs no matter how big or small your commercial project is. Our trained and experienced electricians will be able to answer any questions or concerns you have about the electrical aspects of your building.
Questions For Pre-Construction Phase
Before construction begins, it’s important to ask your contractor a few questions. By discussing each phase with your electrical contractor, you can ensure that everything is going according to plan and stay on top of any potential issues. Here are some suggestions:
- Are you licensed and insured?
- Could you please clarify the services that will be provided during each stage, starting from the planning phase and ending with the final inspection?
- In the past five years, on which commercial projects have you worked?
- Is the work done by your own technicians, or do you use subcontractors?
Planning is an important part of the work. It builds openness and trust and allows you to have an initial feel for the project. Now let’s talk about the five phases of project construction and the topics that should be discussed during each phase. Remember to ask questions if you have any concerns.
Phase 1: Temporary Electrical Service
In the beginning phase of construction, the main priority is to prepare the site and finish the building’s foundation. Your electrical contractor may have to install a temporary electrical pole and conduit to provide power for construction machinery, job site trailer and temporary lighting.
Also, the construction may require electrical conduits for the building service and any in slab conduits completed. In some instances where utility power is not available, installing a generator may be necessary.
Phase 2: Rough-In
Once the building has become weatherproof (Walls and Roof on) your electrician can begin the wiring process. Temporary lighting and power will be installed in the structure. Further, all wiring and fixtures that will be above the drywall will be done at this time. Prior to drywall being installed concealment inspections will be performed by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). Depending on the jurisdiction this may be an electrical inspector or in some instances the building inspector also performs the electrical inspections.
It is important to discuss the timeline for this stage of the project with your electrical and general contractors as it may take days, weeks, or sometimes months depending on the size of the building. If time is important to you, feel free to ask about strategies that can speed up this stage or possibly “phasing” the construction.
Make sure to confirm with your electrical contractor that the necessary infrastructure is in place for the following systems.
- Main Electric Service and sub-panels
- HVAC and mechanical systems
- Phone, CATV & Internet system(s)
- Lighting fixtures and switches
- Outlets
- Appliances and associated feeders
- Generator
Phase 3: Time to Set Up Temporary Switches and Controls
After installing the sheetrock, it’s necessary to install temporary lighting and temperature controls. Later, during the finishing stage, it might be necessary to replace the temporary switches and receptacles with permanent ones due to the possibility of them being covered with paint or sheetrock mud. You or your construction representative should be walking the site and looking for any changes you want or items you think may be in conflict with the construction documents. The earlier you can find changes you want to make the less expensive those changes will be. Do not be shy to ask questions.
Phase 4: The Finish
As the project gets closer to the finish line, significant changes are taking place. At this stage, the addition of permanent lighting, ceilings, cabinets, flooring, and other features give the building a completed appearance. Electricians are usually one of the first contractors on site and the last ones to leave. Switches and fixtures don’t go in until after paint and cabinets are in and complete. Having a good electrician is imperative to a good project. Be comfortable with them because they are involved with every phase of construction.
Phase 5: Final Walk Through & Final Inspections
Most of the work is done and now it’s time to for the final walk through. When doing the final walkthrough with your representative from M.R. Electricians, please ensure all of your questions are answered. Hopefully, all changes you may have wanted, have been addressed prior to this point. If you see any deficiencies with our work, now is the time to point it out. MRE does perform it’s own quality checks prior to final walk through and inspections, but this is your space and your eye and opinion is the most important. Reviewing the warranty and knowing how to reach out to us for further alterations or repairs is crucial. You can also schedule routine maintenance for your electric system.
At the end of it all, you should be satisfied with the results and have peace of mind that your building is safe and up to code.
M.R. Electricians is Here to Help You Every Step of The Way
At M.R. Electricians, we understand that each construction project is unique and requires special attention to detail. We are committed to delivering the highest quality electrical service at a competitive price and can help you plan for the entire process from start to finish. Contact us today at (301) 871-0477 for more information on how we can assist with your next commercial construction project.
