The level of Construction Monitoring chosen will determine the value added to the project - and this could be anything from a lightweight audit function (CM1)  to a quality assurance function (CM5). The level is generally decided on between the engineer and the client with some input from council on what level is appropriate.

The CM level varies from project to project, and factors such as project size, importance, complexity and the skill or experience of the constructor will play a part in which level is chosen. CM3 will generally provide the level of information required for Council to sign the building off for code compliance. However, to have the confidence that as-built construction meets all it’s contractual requirements may require more in depth Construction Monitoring.

What does this mean for Commercial Interiors?

CM1 – CM1 doesn’t include any review of as-built components, there is full reliance on the contractor’s inspections. This should not be the primary level of review.

CM2 – CM2 is an appropriate level for smaller routine projects such as a small office fit out. Representative samples of key design elements such as seismic braces and connection details are required to be inspected to ensure the correct materials and construction methods have been used. The compliance of the finished work is then dependent upon the installer completing the work to at least the same standard as the representative sample reviewed.

CM3 – For CM3 random sampling of important work procedures is required. For example, the review of typical shop or office fit-outs like those found at Commercial Bay in Auckland is appropriate at CM3. Brevity recommends sampling at least 33% of each design feature ensuring these samples are spaced throughout different areas in the build to ensure there is a consistent quality of work. The diagram below illustrates what 33% sampling looks like.

CM4 – The required sampling steps up from random to frequent in CM4. This level of service is appropriate for projects such as Auckland Town Centre or the Canterbury University’s  new engineering block. To ensure work methods and materials meet this level of compliance, Brevity recommends sampling 66% of each design feature across as much of the project as possible. Note the comparison of highlighted areas between the CM3 and CM4 diagrams.

CM5 – CM5 is the highest level of Construction Monitoring. This level of Construction Monitoring is typically only seen on major projects where work poses a critical risk to life safety such as hospitals or large scale buildings where lots of people can congregate such as shopping centres.

Brevity has recently conducted a full audit of our Construction Monitoring systems and have revised, improved and streamlined our service to meet the exact requirements at each level.  In many cases our improved efficiency is  allowing us to spend more time helping with site specific questions or construction issues.

If you are interested in learning more about our Construction Monitoring services or would like to book in an inspection, give us a call, we’d love to hear from you.