How service providers can help building operators at any stage of the retrofit process 

You’ve decided to embark on a deep retrofit project to improve your mid-tier commercial building’s energy efficiency, but do you know who you’re going to call to get started?

A network of specialized energy-focused professionals can guide you through the retrofitting process from initial planning through performance verification.

Every building has unique needs that are dependent on the structure’s age, the kind of updates that will deliver the most efficiencies, available budget, and the makeup of your property management team. Having the right service providers on your team will ensure that projects are efficient, cost-effective and well-worth the expenditure. 

Benchmarking and strategizing

Information is power, and before you purchase a new system or remove an existing piece of equipment, you’ll need to get a baseline understanding of how your building is performing. 

Energy efficiency consultants are often the first point of contact in a retrofit project. Their role is to conduct comprehensive energy audits and analyze building performance data. 

These dedicated experts use the collected information to create roadmaps that help building representatives align their goals with feasible retrofit strategies. They identify prime opportunities for energy savings while prioritizing actions based on financial considerations and impact.

Even if you aren’t yet considering upgrades in the near future, it’s a good idea to start benchmarking energy performance now. Having this baseline understanding helps to identify performance or leakage issues as they arise. It will also keep your operations align with provincial, territorial and municipal governments, which are increasingly initiating voluntary and mandatory benchmarking policies for public, commercial, institutional and multi-unit residential buildings.  

Turning vision into design

Once the opportunities and goals for your building are identified, engineering firms will turn retrofit plans into actionable designs. 

Whether it’s upgrading a building envelope, replacing outdated HVAC systems, or integrating renewable energy, engineers ensure the technical feasibility and regulatory compliance of every project. Their work includes structural assessments, mechanical and electrical system design, and coordination with building codes and safety standards.

Keeping work on track

Construction project management companies are essential for juggling the needs of multiple stakeholders throughout the retrofit project while keeping progress on track. 

These mangers oversee schedules, budgets, material procurement and quality control. They represent a central point of contact that coordinates with trades to execute the project on schedule. 

There are a handful of skilled trades that are typically involved in deep retrofit projects, bringing practical expertise in HVAC, lighting, insulation, renewable energy installation, and controls integration. These contractors should have a solid understanding of both traditional building systems and cutting-edge technologies to ensure long-lasting and effective performance. It is common that the engineering firm that designs your retrofit project can also provide project management for implementation. 

Making projects financially viable

Retrofit costs can be a significant barrier to taking on a project, making funding and incentive specialists an essential part of the retrofit team. They help building owners and managers identify and access available rebates, grants and low-interest financing options that can substantially reduce upfront costs. 

Ensure your service providers are the right fit for your retrofit 

Design-build firms will provide a combination of these retrofit services in house, while smaller firms may specialize in delivering a single service. How do you know which service provider option is right for your situation?

To answer that question, you can turn to programs like BOMA Enspire, designed to help building owners and managers get started on their retrofit journey.  

This national initiative was created to accelerate deep energy reductions in Canada’s existing buildings, with ambitious performance targets and structured pathways for retrofits. Participants get access to a qualified roster of expert service providers who can provide guidance, taking the guesswork out of the service procurement process. 

Successful mid-tier building retrofits are collaborative and require expertise. With guidance from trusted service providers, building owners and property managers can fruitfully take on deep retrofit renovations on their mid-tier commercial buildings to achieve energy savings, reduce emissions and extend the life and value of their assets – all while contributing to broader climate and sustainability goals.