Thanks to The American Institute of Architects (AIA) and its contract templates for all things related to design and construction, there are industry standards for closing out a construction project. After more than 25 years of commissioning being incorporated into some design and construction projects, the industry has yet to address how commissioning fits into an owner’s contractual acceptance of a project.
The traditional project closeout process includes two major milestones: substantial completion and final completion. Substantial completion is the stage at which the contractor’s work is sufficiently complete such that the owner can occupy or utilize the building for its intended use. Final completion is the point at which the owner agrees all contract requirements have been met, and the contractor is paid fully for the construction work.