M & E News & Events
Rimkus Capital Projects
Have you started thinking about your 2023 capital projects? Assessment of your building’s exterior components, internal systems, necessary upgrades, and compliance with building codes and regulations will help you with capital planning for the next year.
Maximizing the life cycle and value of a building requires maintaining performance and improving efficiency. Our depth of technical knowledge and comprehensive understanding of building sciences allow the Rimkus Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) Services team to proactively assist clients with the optimization of building envelopes and related systems.
A Rimkus Condition Assessment can help:
As natural events continue to shape the future of our landscape, Rimkus can help clients avoid failures related to the design, maintenance, and restoration of buildings, infrastructure, and communities.
When looking at structures, systems, and communities, there is an expectation that infrastructure should be able to resist an extreme event with minimal damage and functionality disruption during the event; after the event, it should be able to rapidly recover its functionality similar to, or even better than, the pre-event level.
Resilience Services Include:
Assist in capital planning
Assess your property’s performance and current condition
Prepare for seasonal weather changes
Avoid eyesores and premature damage caused by known issues
Avoid potential risks to clients and employees
Plan maintenance activities to keep building performance optimal
Plan property repairs and upgrades
Remain compliant with building codes and requirements
Energy and Resilience
Energy Consulting
Rimkus offers a diverse range of services and significant expertise focused on environmental, social, and (corporate) governance (ESG); greenhouse gas and carbon footprint reduction; and climate consulting. Whether addressing legislative changes or proactively reviewing assets in light of global fluctuations, expertise is required. Our diverse experience with buildings and knowledge of their relationship with the surrounding environment have helped our clients avoid unnecessary failures with their projects.
Energy Services include:
Full assessments of the Building Envelope, MEP systems, and Elevators to Comprehensively Understand how Energy is Used in Your Buildings
ASHRAE Level I, II, & III Audits
Greenhouse Gas and Carbon Footprint Analysis and Benchmarking
Energy Reporting for Compliance with Local Energy Reporting Ordinances
Full Engineering Services for the Design of Energy and GHG-reducing Projects
Project Management Services and Oversight of all Aspects of Bidding and Construction
Resilience Due Diligence
As natural events continue to shape the future of our landscape, Rimkus can help clients avoid failures related to the design, maintenance, and restoration of buildings, infrastructure, and communities.
When looking at structures, systems, and communities, there is an expectation that infrastructure should be able to resist an extreme event with minimal damage and functionality disruption during the event; after the event, it should be able to rapidly recover its functionality similar to, or even better than, the pre-event level.
Resilience Services Include:
Climate Analysis
Resiliency Design Services
Risk Management Strategies
Capital Expenditure Studies
Building Envelope Analysis
Geotechnical Assessments
Structural Assessments
Seismic Assessments
MEP Systems Evaluation
Our significant industry expertise allows us to apply a unique perspective to finding the most practical, cost-effective solutions to project challenges. We can help you evaluate and address the specific vulnerabilities of your buildings and their systems.
Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, and Life Safety
Is your property ready for 2023? We offer an extensive list of services to optimize your buildings for the new year. From inspection through rehabilitation, our experts can help you meet regulation requirements, save money, and protect your assets.
Mechanical
Mechanical systems design
Maintenance of building heating systems
Evaluation and reporting on heating and air, ventilation, storm, and sanitary systems
Replacement and design of boiler and chiller plants
Building automation controls
Fan coil refurbishment
Plumbing system drainage, design, and placement
Electrical
Electrical systems design and maintenance
High- and low-voltage power distribution, design, and reporting
Investigation, evaluation, and reporting of emergency power generators
Lighting systems design and maintenance
Alarm system design and upgrade
CCTV camera and telecommunication systems operations
Emergency generators design and maintenance
Energy audits
Life Safety
Fire prevention and protection systems design and maintenance
Smoke control consulting
Code and regulation compliance
Post-incident consulting
Capital reserve fund studies
Energy audits
Engineering, design, and construction reviews
Project management
We specialize in providing comprehensive Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, and Life Safety consulting services. Contact us to discuss your property’s needs for 2023.
Mechanical, Electrical, & Plumbing (MEP) Services
In response to climate change, the Government of Canada has pledged to transition to net-zero carbon and climate-resilient operations.
To meet Canada’s 2030 and 2050 climate goals and support this initiative, building owners and managers will need to upgrade, retrofit, and decarbonize their buildings.
We provide comprehensive mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and life safety consulting services for commercial, hospitality, multi-residential, institutional, and industrial applications.
Our green building experts can assess building components and systems, identify deficiencies, and provide solutions to optimize your property’s energy efficiency, operational usability, and occupant comfort and well-being.
Energy Audits
Review of historical energy bills for comparison with other buildings
Assessment of retrofit savings potential
Inventory of energy-consuming aspects and associated operating details
Decarbonization of Buildings
Development of plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs)
Net-Zero Studies to provide a clear path to more sustainable buildings
Ensure compliance with climate regulations and legislature
Mechanical Services
Evaluation and reporting of building services including heating and air, ventilation, storm, and sanitary systems
Replacement, design, and maintenance of building systems
Building automation controls
Drainage, design, and placement of piping systems
Electrical Services
Electrical design
High- and low-voltage power distribution, design, and reporting
Building automation controls
Investigation, evaluating, and reporting of emergency power generators
Life Safety and Fire
Fire prevention, protection, and post-incident consulting
Smoke control consulting
Alarm system planning and maintenance
Code compliance, consulting, and understanding
In addition to helping achieve Canada’s climate targets, proactive attention to your building’s components will help you to avoid failures, downtime, and maintenance costs. Our teams are composed of architects, civil engineers, structural engineers, electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, and life safety specialists across Canada.
We’re ready to assist clients with all Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing needs.
Reserve Fund Studies and Depreciation Reports
Condominium Maintenance and Repairs
Reserve Fund Studies and Depreciation Reports enable condominium boards to make fact-based, data-driven decisions regarding building maintenance; avoid being surprised by special assessments; budget responsibly for predictable repairs and replacements; save money; and protect property values.
To meet regulation requirements, condominium corporations must establish reserve fund studies (capital replacement plans) within a year of registration.
What is a Reserve Fund Study/Depreciation Report?
These studies and reports involve a complete assessment of the property’s building components, including exterior and interior elements, infrastructure, and mechanical and electrical systems. They must be performed by a licensed architect or engineer.
Why do I Need a Reserve Fund Study/Depreciation Report?
Reserve Fund Studies and Depreciation Reports provide well-researched and defensible expense projections so that adequate funds can be set aside for inevitable future projects. This allows for reserve planning at the same pace as the property’s deterioration and in time for actual repairs or replacements. By establishing a reserve budget for items needing repair and replacement down the road, condominium owners can avoid financial surprises.
Make Informed Decisions
Our building experts can evaluate the present condition and life expectancy of components, identify necessary repairs, make recommendations for maintenance or replacement, and provide cost estimates and cash allocation assistance for current and future maintenance.
We offer a wide range of building services to assist condominium property owners and managers in extending a property’s lifespan and performing necessary updates with maximum efficiency and minimal disruption to occupied buildings.
IRC Building Sciences Group, A Rimkus Company, has a team of experts including professional engineers, architects, and technologists across Canada ready to prepare your next Reserve Fund Study and Depreciation Report. To learn more about the full package of services we can provide to condominium owners and managers.
On-Demand MEP Webinars
Continuing Education Program
Exciting Educational Opportunities
We are excited to share the following Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) educational opportunities with you.
Today's webinars include:
• Electrical Investigations
• Cast Iron Plumbing Systems Failure Analysis
• Vehicle Charging Stations: Staying Ahead of the Curve
These webinars are the first of many that will be made available to our clients. Learn more about our educational opportunities by visiting our Continuing Education page.
On-Demand Webinar: Electrical Investigations
Electrical Investigations is a one-hour course designed to provide participants with the basic knowledge of how electricity gets from the power plant to the end user and the common devices used in the distribution process in commercial and/or residential applications. The presentation looks at devices the end user may purchase and use daily, as well as the common failures related to these products.
The course also reviews safety issues and the improper use of electrical equipment, arc flash hazards, lightning, and electrical fires to help adjusters better understand how the lack of safety protocols or the improper use of equipment can lead to failures and possible fatalities. The presentation also shows the various methods of failure and how an electrical engineer’s evaluation can determine the cause of loss and possible subrogation opportunities.
On-Demand Webinar: Cast Iron Plumbing Systems Failure Analysis
Cast Iron Plumbing Systems Failure Analysis is a one-hour course designed to help insurance professionals understand the materials, codes, and possible failures involved with residential cast iron plumbing systems.
The presentation is designed to show how residential cast iron pipe plumbing systems are built and why they fail, as well as explain applicable codes and highlight a few repair options. Participants will learn what to look for while addressing a cast iron pipe sewer failure claim, including some of the forensic investigative techniques utilized by experts. The course also includes case studies to illustrate the handling of such losses and a practical demonstration of a typical drainage system failure.
On-Demand Webinar: Vehicle Charging Stations: Staying Ahead of the Curve
Vehicle Charging Stations: Staying Ahead of the Curve is a one-hour course designed to help participants learn the fundamentals of Electronic Vehicle Charger Stations (EVCS). Participants in this course will stay ahead of the curve and better understand the impact, installation, and money-saving potential of EVCS, as they learn what to look for and how to install the proper EVCS for a business/complex.
Rimkus Consulting Group, Inc. Acquires Commercial Construction Consulting
Global consulting firm strengthens Boston presence and expands existing Building Sciences practice
HOUSTON, TX – May 4, 2022 – Rimkus Consulting Group, Inc. (“Rimkus”), a worldwide provider of engineering and technical consulting services, today announced the acquisition of Commercial Construction Consulting, Inc. (“C3”), an international development advisory and engineering consulting company. The acquisition continues to expand Rimkus’ robust building sciences practice area, focusing on real estate, development advisory services, vertical transportation services, energy audits, and more.
“As our clients continue to grow, we are always looking for opportunities to better serve them. At Rimkus, we want our clients to contact us when they need answers to their most complex technical questions. We see that same philosophy at Commercial Construction Consulting as well. They have built an impressive company that understands every aspect of the building lifecycle, which makes them as excellent addition to Rimkus,” said Curtis Brown, Chairman and Executive Director, Rimkus Consulting Group, Inc.
“Boston has always been a growing market for us, particularly for façade inspections, and having a stronger presence in the area with C3 allows us to expand our service offerings to even more clients. Additionally, their expertise in areas such as vertical transportation will help us expand a growing area for Rimkus. We look forward to having their new perspective and working together to deliver top-level outcomes for our clients,” said Robert Kocher, President and Chief Executive Officer, Rimkus Consulting Group, Inc.
C3 combines expertise in areas such as real estate investment, development advisory, engineering, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing energy and sustainability and technical services. C3’s professionals have expertise in the latest technologies and techniques and provide actionable insight that cuts through the complexity and helps answer customers’ most crucial development questions. Their team serves real estate investors and companies, institutions, and public sector agencies globally.
“The opportunity to join a global firm with a terrific reputation such as Rimkus is something we have been considering for quite some time; we believe we found the perfect fit with Rimkus. As we integrate the C3 brand into Rimkus, we will expand to offer even greater technical services across a broader geographical reach. We look forward to unifying our teams and collaborating towards a single, shared vision for the built environment,” said James Kirby, President and Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Construction Consulting, Inc.
Since 2020, Rimkus has completed 11 acquisitions worldwide, growing their network to more than 1,300 employees and more than 110 offices. Through the acquisitions, Rimkus has enhanced their existing practice areas to stay ahead of their global customers’ requirements and invested in solutions that enable the company to remain a leader.
About Rimkus Consulting Group, Inc.
Rimkus Consulting Group, Inc. is a worldwide provider of engineering and technical consulting services to corporations, insurance companies, law firms, and government agencies. Rimkus forensic experts assist clients with the responsive and timely resolution of claims and disputes across a wide range of industries. Rimkus also provides architecture, engineering, and construction services for the built environment, including restoration design, facilities risk assessments, and due diligence property condition assessments. For almost 40 years, the company’s professional engineers, architects, scientists, and technical specialists have been recognized for their commitment to service excellence by local, national, and international business communities. Rimkus operates more than 110 offices worldwide. For more information, visit www.rimkus.com.
About Commercial Construction Consulting
Commercial Construction Consulting is an international technical services consulting firm that provides property condition assessments, capital planning services, development and construction support services, MEP design and consulting services, code consulting, and vertical transportation consulting services to institutional investors, building owners, property management firms, and government entities. For more information, visit https://www.c3boston.com.
Media Contact:
Kaitlin Ross
Pierpont Communications on behalf of Rimkus Consulting Group, Inc.
kross@piercom.com
713-627-2223
Porasz Reviews Building Energy Efficiency Considerations
When the goal is to maximize building efficiency, facility managers have many interconnected systems and factors to consider. From building façade elements to equipment’s electrical consumption, building managers must compare the money spent on improving outdated systems with the continued cost of running them as-is.
Ed Porasz, Vice President, MEP Strategic Growth Initiatives, reviewed some of these considerations in an article for Facilities Net, where he discussed the importance of monitoring energy using smart meters and which system improvements may yield the highest energy efficiency increase. Read the full article here.
Rimkus Consulting Group, Inc. Acquires M&E Engineering Consultants
Global consulting firm expands bench of experts in Canada and scales Mechanical, Electrical, and Life Safety capabilities
HOUSTON, TX – May 19, 2021 – Rimkus Consulting Group, Inc. (“Rimkus”), a worldwide provider of forensic engineering and technical consulting services, today announced the strategic acquisition of M & E Engineering Consultants (“M & E”). Now with more than 90 offices and 950 employees, the firm is uniquely positioned to deliver for its global client base with increased capabilities in Mechanical, Electrical, and Life Safety areas.
“At Rimkus, we’re on a mission to grow our practice areas and teams from within while also capitalizing on opportunities to expand our reach through acquisitions. Our international client roster demands experts that blend technical capabilities and excellent project management in a manner that meets their business goals. The new addition of M & E Engineering Consultants to our team will deepen our proficiency in core service areas while upholding the high standards our clients have come to know from Rimkus,” said Curtis Brown, Chairman and Executive Director, Rimkus Consulting Group, Inc.
“M & E Engineering Consultants brings a rich, 40-year history of practicing engineering in Ontario to our firm, and we couldn’t be more pleased to welcome them to the Rimkus family. Their market leadership and reputation for client success aligns closely with our growth strategy. Together, our teams are positioned for long-term success, with the ability to quickly scale and meet our clients’ mechanical, electrical, and life safety challenges,” said Robert Kocher, President and Chief Executive Officer, Rimkus Consulting Group, Inc.
“We are excited to join the Rimkus family, another industry pioneer that has complementary strengths and is committed to delivering the same quality of work we value in a partner. We’re excited to bring our technical insights, backed by Rimkus’ resources and growing network, to provide even more industry-leading consulting services and options to our customer base,” said Ed Porasz, M & E Engineering Consultants.
About Rimkus Consulting Group, Inc.
Rimkus Consulting Group, Inc. is a worldwide provider of forensic consulting and technical services to insurance companies, law firms, corporations, and government agencies. Rimkus assists clients in the responsive and timely resolution of claims and disputes, as well as restoration design services, facilities risk assessments, and due diligence property condition assessments. For more than 35 years, the company’s team of professional engineers, architects, scientists, and technical specialists has been recognized for its commitment to service excellence by local, national, and international business communities. Rimkus operates more than 90 offices across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. For more information, visit www.rimkus.com.
About M & E Engineering Consultants
M&E Engineering Ltd. (M & E) is an employee-owned consulting engineering firm practicing engineering in Ontario for over 40 years. M & E specializes in providing comprehensive Mechanical, Electrical and Life Safety consulting services to architects, building owners, structural consultants, as well as tenants for commercial, hospitality, multi-residential, institutional, and industrial applications. The professional team at M & E have been delivering successful projects ranging from comprehensive new construction and retrofit designs, problem investigation, energy audits, and building condition assessments on hundreds of buildings every year for our clients in Ontario, across Canada, in the United States, and Europe. For more information, visit www.me-eng.com.
Media Contact:
Victoria Cook
Pierpont Communications on behalf of Rimkus Consulting Group
vcook@piercom.com
713-627-2223
Our Brand New Office
Just last year M & E opened our brand new office in Burlington Ontario. The office, located at 4631 Palladium Way, offers our growing team more space, and a new location in the west end of the GTA. The new team working out of Burlington will manage and lead our projects in the West-Toronto region as well as Western Ontario. Operations out of our Vaughan location will continue as usual, with our devoted staff continuing, and ready to service your buildings needs and requirements.
“This new location provides enhanced opportunities for M & E, as we continue to grow our business partnerships West of Toronto into Southwestern Ontario. We are excited to bring our services to more Ontarians.”
- Ed Porasz, P.Eng. President, M & E Engineering Ltd.