FM Global or Factory Mutual has grown to be a recognizable authority which has been driving performance standards on construction of buildings that may not even be insured by Factory Mutual. Their stringent standards have paved a way for members of the specification and design community to recommend or design projects with the FM standards. Today FM has initiated recommendations, and in some cases mandates, that any roof project that takes place on a FM Global insured facility include the full time monitoring services of an RCI accredited Registered Roof Observer or RRO. Members of our team hold this accreditation and actively perform project monitoring for clients that are insured by FM Global.
Over the years MTNVIEW has worked on numerous projects performing monitoring or quality inspection services. The contractors that we have worked with were a bit apprehensive in the early stages. However, after experiencing that we were there to ensure the success of their project, and in some cases help their field organization, they have become some of our biggest champions.
Our approach to project monitoring, includes conducting a review of all of the project documents (specification and design). We look to make sure that the goals of ownership or the client are achievable. The next step includes making sure that all of the trades that will be involved with the project are actively communicating and working together as a team with a common goal. These are just the precursory steps before any actual onsite monitoring commences.
Our reports are used to record the observations and memorialize any changes and issues. Depending on the level of detail requested, some reports can include information such as comprehensive specific weather data and other details outlining the specific locations and times the materials were installed. This can often times ensure and eliminate any suspect failures due to installation during unacceptable weather conditions.
Manufacturers’ inspections are important, as they will help confirm that the observed installation is in compliance and will receive the warranty specified. However, these inspections are often times accessional at best. Manufacturers rely on the approved contractors to ensure they meet the manufacturer’s requirements. It is not uncommon to find that manufacturer’s requirements may be less critical than those of a specific project. This, in turn can bring on the risk of deviations and costly change orders. It also risks having the finished product be inferior to the system specified by a design professional. A roofing products manufacturer is not responsible for any of the building components that can have adverse effects on the roof, such as wall conditions that are porous or unstable.
Our project monitoring services are offered in a wide range of options stemming from simple periodic inspections to involving a full time on site inspector. We can always custom tailor a program to the needs of each individual client and project.