Large-scale restoration projects—especially after fires, floods, or hurricanes—are high-stakes, high-speed environments. The faster you can get a building functional again, the better it is for tenants, owners, and insurers. But one of the biggest challenges in these jobs? Coordinating all the moving parts—especially when it comes to MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) trades.
At Finish Line MEP, we’ve been in the thick of fast-paced restorations across Texas, and here’s what we’ve learned about keeping MEP coordination smooth, safe, and on schedule.
Start With a Unified Scope Walk
Before anyone swings a hammer, get all key trades—HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and fire suppression—on site together for a scope walk. This allows for:- Identifying overlapping work zones
- Planning for sequencing (e.g., electrical before ceiling close-ups)
- Addressing safety or code conflicts early
Designate a Clear Point of Contact
Too often, restoration delays come from unclear chains of communication. Appointing one dedicated MEP coordinator—either from the GC or the MEP firm—ensures that:- Daily updates are consolidated
- Change orders flow through a single channel
- Miscommunications between trades are resolved quickly
Plan for Sequencing and Access
In restoration work, everyone’s on a timeline—but some work must happen in a certain order. For example:- HVAC rough-ins need to happen before drywall
- Fire suppression systems must be tested before
