EXISTING BUILDING COMMISSIONING SERVICES

Retro-Commissioning Services

Retro-Commissioning (RCx) is applied to buildings that have not been previously commissioned. This process aims to improve performance by optimizing existing systems and upgrading to more energy-efficient equipment. RCx typically involves planning, investigation, implementation, and verification phases. It addresses energy usage and performance issues, implementing measures to reduce operation and maintenance costs while enhancing system functionality. RCx is ideal for fixing inefficiencies due to design flaws, construction issues, or system degradation over time. Cornerstone’s retro-commissioning solutions uncover hidden performance issues that can result in significant cost savings.

Recommissioning

Recommissioning is for buildings that were previously commissioned. It can be part of a scheduled process or triggered by changes in building use, operational problems, or renovations. Over time, even the most efficient systems deteriorate. Recommissioning ensures these systems continue to operate at optimal performance, making it suitable for facilities experiencing performance issues or changes in operational requirements. Cornerstone’s recommissioning services ensure that building systems are fine-tuned to meet current operational needs.

Monitoring-Based Commissioning 

Monitoring-Based Commissioning (MBCx) ensures ongoing energy savings and performance benefits. MBCx uses analytical software to continuously monitor critical equipment components by mining key data from the building automation system and then analyzing that data to find issues and recommend solutions. This allows for real-time detection and reporting of malfunctions, as well as ongoing observation of energy consumption and performance. MBCx is a cost-effective service that provides long-term efficiency and sustainability, maintaining the benefits of the initial commissioning process. Cornerstone’s use of advanced monitoring tools from Clockworks ensures continuous optimization and proactive maintenance.

Our team is passionate about building performance, providing independent checks to ensure facilities function as designed. For more information and to get started with the commissioning process, contact Cornerstone Commissioning today.

The Existing Building Commissioning Process

Cornerstone follows a structured and data-driven existing building commissioning process designed to identify performance gaps and verify that systems align with current operational goals. This process is tailored to each facility, but typically includes the following key phases:

• Scoping and Goal Setting: Define project objectives, performance benchmarks, and owner priorities.
• Data Review and Investigation: Analyze building systems, historical data, and operational trends to identify potential issues.
• Field Testing and System Diagnostics: Perform hands-on testing and evaluation of equipment and controls to verify real-world performance.
• Corrective Action Planning: Develop practical, prioritized recommendations to address deficiencies and improve system operation.
• Performance Verification: Confirm that implemented measures are delivering expected results and supporting long-term performance.

This structured commissioning process allows owners to move beyond assumptions and gain verified insight into how their buildings operate today.

Measurable Benefits for Owners and Facility Teams

A well-executed existing building commissioning effort delivers measurable results that extend beyond immediate fixes. By addressing system inefficiencies and operational gaps, owners and facility teams can achieve:

• Reduced energy consumption and improved energy efficiency
• Lower operating and maintenance costs
• Improved occupant comfort and indoor air quality
• Fewer equipment failures and reduced reactive maintenance
• Extended equipment lifespan and improved system reliability

These outcomes are especially valuable across commercial buildings and complex facilities where system performance directly impacts daily operations and long-term costs. By focusing on real-world performance, building commissioning becomes a strategic tool for operational improvement.

Supporting Sustainability and Long-Term Asset Value

Existing building commissioning plays a key role in supporting sustainability goals and long-term asset management strategies. By optimizing system performance, facilities can reduce energy waste, support ESG initiatives, and align with energy benchmarking requirements and regulatory expectations.

Beyond sustainability, commissioning helps protect long-term building value. When systems operate as intended, facilities experience fewer disruptions, improved reliability, and better alignment with evolving operational demands. This positions owners to make informed decisions about upgrades, capital planning, and lifecycle investments.

When to Consider Existing Building Commissioning

There are several common indicators that a facility may benefit from existing building commissioning services. These include:

• Rising or inconsistent energy costs
• Persistent occupant comfort complaints
• Changes in building use or occupancy patterns
• Renovations or system upgrades
• New leadership or operational transitions
• Sustainability initiatives or compliance requirements
• Aging equipment approaching lifecycle milestones

In many cases, these triggers point to underlying system inefficiencies that can be identified and addressed through commissioning. For facilities seeking continuous insight, approaches like monitor based commissioning can provide ongoing performance visibility and optimization.

Contact us to learn how Cornerstone Commissioning can support your next step toward improved performance.