FAQ
MEP FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
If you’re planning a construction or renovation project in Texas, you likely have questions about what MEP engineering involves, how the process works, and what to expect when partnering with a firm like ours. Below, we’ve answered the most common questions our team receives — clearly and directly — so you can move forward with confidence.
What is MEP engineering?
MEP engineering refers to the design and coordination of three critical building systems: mechanical, electrical, and plumbing. Mechanical covers HVAC and climate control. Electrical covers power distribution, lighting, and low-voltage systems. Plumbing covers water supply, drainage, and fixtures. Together, these systems determine how a building performs, how comfortable it is to occupy, and how efficient it is to operate.
What does an MEP engineer do?
MEP engineers design the systems that make a building functional. They develop construction documents, coordinate with architects and structural engineers, ensure code compliance, and specify the equipment that contractors will install. Our engineers also provide construction administration support to make sure design intent is carried through to completion.
Why do I need an MEP engineer for my project?
Most commercial, institutional, and industrial construction projects are required by code to have licensed engineers design the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Beyond compliance, a qualified MEP engineer helps you avoid costly design errors, reduce energy consumption, and ensure the building operates the way it was intended from day one.
What is the difference between MEP design and MEP consulting?
MEP design involves producing full construction documents — drawings and specifications used by contractors to build the systems. MEP consulting is broader and may include feasibility studies, peer reviews, energy modeling, code analysis, or advisory support without full construction documents. Our team provides both, depending on where your project is in the development process.
When should I bring an MEP engineer onto my project?
The earlier, the better. Engaging an MEP engineer during schematic design — before the architectural layout is finalized — allows the team to make informed decisions about space planning, equipment rooms, shaft locations, and utility coordination. Late involvement often leads to redesign costs and schedule delays.
What mechanical engineering services does Cleary Zimmermann provide?
Our mechanical engineering services include HVAC system design, energy modeling, load calculations, equipment selection, ductwork and piping layout, and controls coordination. We design systems for a wide range of building types, from K-12 schools and healthcare facilities to municipal buildings and commercial office space. Learn more on our MEP services page.
What electrical engineering services are included in an MEP scope?
Our electrical engineering scope typically includes power distribution design, lighting design and controls, emergency power systems, fire alarm coordination, and low-voltage infrastructure. For projects that require it, we also provide IT and security system design — an area where our team has deep experience across healthcare, education, and institutional markets.
What plumbing engineering services do you offer?
Our plumbing engineering services cover domestic water systems, sanitary and storm drainage, medical gas systems (for healthcare projects), and fixture specification. We design systems that meet applicable plumbing codes and support efficient, reliable building operation.
What is commissioning, and does Cleary Zimmermann provide it?
Commissioning is the process of verifying that a building’s systems are installed and operating according to the design intent and owner’s project requirements. It’s especially important for complex facilities like hospitals and laboratories. Yes — we provide commissioning services as part of our core offerings, helping owners take occupancy with confidence that their systems are performing as designed.
Do you provide IT and security design services?
We do. Our team designs structured cabling infrastructure, data networks, access control systems, video surveillance, and audio-visual systems. These services are integrated into our broader MEP scope or delivered as a standalone engagement depending on the project’s needs.
How does the MEP design process work from start to finish?
A typical MEP engineering engagement moves through several phases. It begins with programming and schematic design, where we establish system concepts and coordinate with the broader design team. From there, we move into design development, producing more detailed drawings and specifications. Construction documents follow, providing the contractor with a complete set of engineered drawings. During construction, we provide submittal review, RFI responses, and site observation as needed.
How long does MEP design typically take?
Timeline varies depending on project complexity, size, and how many design phases are involved. A straightforward commercial tenant improvement might take six to ten weeks. A large healthcare facility or K-12 campus project can take a year or more from schematic design through completed construction documents. We work with your schedule and communicate proactively if anything affects the timeline.
How do MEP engineers coordinate with architects and structural engineers?
Coordination happens throughout the design process. We exchange drawings, attend design team meetings, and use BIM (Building Information Modeling) software when required to resolve conflicts before construction begins. Clash detection — identifying where ductwork, conduit, piping, or structural elements overlap — is a key part of our coordination workflow on complex projects.
What information do you need to get started on a project?
To develop a proposal and begin design, we typically need the architectural drawings or space program, the building’s intended use, the project location, applicable codes and standards, and any owner-specific requirements. If you’re early in the process, a brief conversation with our team is often the best starting point. Reach out here and we’ll take it from there.
What types of projects does Cleary Zimmermann typically work on?
We have experience across a wide range of project types, including healthcare facilities, K-12 schools, higher education buildings, municipal and government facilities, and commercial office and retail space. Our portfolio spans new construction, renovations, and additions — and we’re comfortable on projects of varying scale, from single-building renovations to multi-site capital programs.
Does Cleary Zimmermann work on healthcare MEP projects?
Yes. Healthcare is one of our core markets. We understand the regulatory environment, infection control requirements, redundancy standards, and specialized systems — including medical gas, isolation rooms, and emergency power — that healthcare facilities require. We’ve worked on hospitals, clinics, surgery centers, and long-term care facilities throughout Texas.
Do you work with school districts and universities?
We do. Education is another area where we have extensive experience. We work with K-12 school districts on everything from new campus construction to HVAC replacement and building upgrades. We also support higher education institutions with laboratory design, dormitory infrastructure, and campus-wide system improvements.
Where is Cleary Zimmermann located, and what areas do you serve?
Our headquarters is in San Antonio, and we have offices in Dallas, Austin, Houston, and College Station. We serve clients across the state of Texas and have been doing so for more than 20 years. Whether your project is in a major metro area or a smaller Texas community, our team has the regional knowledge and statewide reach to support it effectively.
How do I request a proposal or start a conversation about my project?
The easiest way to get started is to contact our team directly. We’ll ask a few questions about your project scope, timeline, and location, and follow up with a proposal or a brief discovery call — whichever makes more sense for where you are in the process. We’re straightforward to work with and responsive throughout every phase of a project.
Have More Questions? Let's Talk.
This list covers the questions we hear most often, but every project is different. If you have something specific on your mind — whether it’s about scope, schedule, fees, or how MEP engineering fits into your particular building type — our team is happy to help. Reach out to Cleary Zimmermann and let’s start the conversation.
You can also explore our full range of MEP services or visit our blog for deeper dives into engineering topics, industry trends, and project insights from our team.
