Although the use of commissioning as a management tool is becoming more widespread, less than 5% of the new and existing buildings in the United States have been commissioned. This fact points to an ongoing need in the next century for recommissioning. Recommissioning, or retrocommissioning as it is sometimes called, is typically performed on older structures that either haven’t been designed or operated properly, or that are undergoing a major renovation due to age or change of purpose.

Like commissioning, recommissioning involves performance and diagnostic testing of most or all major building systems including hvac, building automation, lighting, life safety, and transportation. Mechanical systems operation and controls are most examined, likely because they create the biggest problems for owners. The results are documented, along with recommendations for improving performance.