Generate a structured responsibility matrix for MEP trade interfaces. Assign responsibility for common scope gap items to prevent change orders.
MEP scope gaps occur at the interfaces between mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection trades. These gaps — when unassigned — become change orders during construction, typically costing 5-15% of contract value.
This tool provides a structured checklist of the most common scope gap items, organized by trade interface. For each item, assign which party is responsible: General Contractor, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Fire Protection, Controls/BAS, or Owner.
How to use:
Sources: Scope gap items compiled from AGC/ASA scope of work references, SMACNA coordination guidelines, NEC 110.26/430.102(B), ASHRAE commissioning standards, and published MEP coordination resources including HKA MEP interface studies and MEP Academy coordination checklists.
The most expensive scope gaps in commercial construction cluster around six areas: mechanical-electrical interfaces (who provides disconnect/fusible switch for RTUs), plumbing-mechanical (who provides isolation valves on chilled water systems), fire protection-electrical (who provides power for fire pump controller), BAS-electrical (who provides conduit and wiring for DDC sensors), controls-mechanical (who provides actuators for VAV boxes), and general contractor-all trades (who provides sleeves, openings, and firestopping).
Use this matrix as a bid-leveling tool during the subcontractor selection phase — before award. Export as PDF and attach to each subcontract's scope of work exhibit, so responsibility is documented before work begins rather than disputed during construction.
See also: General Conditions Calculator · ROM Estimator