Constructability and Compliance Reviews for Houston Construction Projects

A comprehensive pre-construction constructability review can significantly reduce risks, improve efficiency, and ultimately contribute to a more successful project outcome. The earlier in the design process the review is conducted, the greater the potential for cost savings and improvements that make an impact.

A compliance review is often completed post-construction and confirms that the completed project meets all applicable codes and regulations. It verifies that the work was performed according to the approved plans and specifications, and that all necessary permits and approvals were obtained throughout the construction process.

At GRA-Gulf Coast Construction, our team can take care of both your constructability and compliance reviews. We seamlessly integrate these processes into your project lifecycle so that these important steps don’t get lost in the shuffle of a busy project. Get in touch with our team today to find out how we can assist you with these important assessments.

Conducting a Pre-Construction Constructability Review

This review should ideally be done during the design phase of your project. If you opted for a design-build construction approach, we will already have plans in place to internally complete this review with our design team.

We join the design team during key design milestones (schematic design, design development, and near final documents) to actively participate in review meetings and provide timely feedback.

A full examination of all project documents is the first major step, including architectural drawings, structural plans, MEP systems, specifications, and preliminary schedules. Leveraging our understanding of construction sequencing, we’ll conceptually walk through the build process to identify potential clashes, logistical challenges, and constructability hurdles before they become costly field issues.

Lastly, we’ll provide clear and actionable feedback using standardized comment forms and participate actively in review meetings to discuss our findings and proposed solutions collaboratively.

Key Factors of a Constructability Review

During a constructability review, we look closely at a number of project aspects.

• Buildability: Identifying overly complex details or non-standard construction methods.
• Clarity and Coordination of Documents: Pinpointing ambiguities, inconsistencies, or missing information across all disciplines.
• Material Selection and Availability: Assessing the practicality and lead times of specified materials.
• Site Logistics and Access: Evaluating the feasibility of site access, staging areas, and material handling.
• Safety by Design: Proactively identifying and suggesting design modifications to enhance safety during construction and in the completed facility.
• Cost Optimization: Suggesting value-engineered alternatives that maintain quality and functionality while improving constructability.

What Types of Projects Need a Constructability Review?

While a constructability review can bring value to almost any industrial or commercial construction project, certain types stand to benefit significantly due to their inherent complexities or potential risks.

Large and Complex Projects

• High-rise buildings that have intricate structural systems, MEP coordination, and vertical transportation.
• Healthcare facilities as they involve complex mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, as well as stringent control requirements.
• Industrial facilities due to specialized equipment and safety considerations.

Projects with Tight Schedules and Budgets

• When time is of the essence, identifying and resolving potential construction issues early can prevent costly delays and ensure the schedule is achievable.
• For projects with limited budgets, a review can uncover opportunities for cost savings through value engineering, material optimization, and more efficient construction methods.

Public and Institutional Projects

• Government buildings that have strict regulatory requirements and long-term performance expectations.
• Educational facilities that need durable, maintainable designs.

Assessing Compliance at Project Completion

Assessing compliance at project completion is a critical process that protects your investment and verifies that the project is legally sound. It begins with clearly defining the scope of compliance. This crucial first step involves identifying all applicable requirements by compiling a comprehensive list of codes, regulations, standards, and contractual obligations governing the project, encompassing elements such as local building codes (including structural, electrical, plumbing, and fire safety), accessibility standards like ADA, environmental regulations, zoning ordinances, permitting requirements, contract specifications, and design drawings.

Alongside this, it’s essential to establish objective and measurable acceptance criteria for each requirement, ensuring a clear understanding of what constitutes compliance throughout the final assessment process.

Compliance Requirements for New Houston Buildings

Compliance for new industrial and commercial buildings in Houston involves a complex set of regulations. Not all may apply to your project, so it’s important to know which ones directly affect your build, based on the type of construction and where it is located. Key compliance areas include:

• Zoning and Land Use: Relevant municipal or county development regulations, including parking, setbacks, and landscaping.
• Building Codes: As relevant, the Houston Construction Code, which incorporates the International Building Code (IBC) with local amendments, covering structural integrity, fire safety, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical systems.
• Permitting: Have necessary permits for construction, demolition, electrical, plumbing, mechanical work, and occupancy. This would include submitting detailed plans and undergoing inspections.
• Environmental Regulations: Federal and state (Texas Commission on Environmental Quality – TCEQ) regulations concerning air and water quality, including stormwater management (TPDES permits), industrial wastewater discharge (pretreatment permits), and hazardous waste management. Specific regulations like the Houston NSPS OOOOb standard for VOC and HAP emissions may apply.
• Fire Safety: Compliance with the Houston Fire Code, potentially requiring operational permits from the Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office for specific industrial activities and ensuring fire prevention measures are in place.
• Accessibility: Texas Accessibility Standards (TAS), consistent with ADA requirements, to ensure the facility is accessible to individuals with disabilities.

We are an Expert Construction Company Local to Houston

Building in Houston? Choose local expertise! Our experienced Houston construction company manages every stage of commercial and industrial builds. From planning to completion, we’re your trusted local partner. Contact us today for a consultation.