A useful MEP project brief explains what is being built, how it will operate, what information already exists and which decisions the consultant is expected to own.

Describe the project and its users

Start with location, building type, gross area, number of floors, project stage and intended use. Include occupancy numbers, operating hours, special rooms, tenant requirements and any planned future phases.

Share the latest architectural drawings, site plan, sections, facade information, structural concept and available surveys. Mark what is approved and what is still expected to change.

  • Project location, scale, use, occupancy and programme
  • Current architectural, structural and site information
  • Special equipment, tenant, process or clinical requirements

Record performance and infrastructure expectations

The brief should state comfort, ventilation, power continuity, water, fire safety, sustainability, acoustics, controls and metering expectations. If targets are unknown, say so and ask the consultant to help define them.

Available electricity, water, drainage, gas and authority information is essential. Known constraints, existing systems and future expansion requirements should be recorded early.

  • Utility availability, applications and known constraints
  • Performance, resilience and sustainability targets
  • Applicable standards, authorities and approval pathway

Define scope, deliverables and responsibilities

Clarify whether the appointment covers concept, detailed design, tender, BIM, execution review, testing or handover. List expected models, drawings, calculations, reports and meeting commitments.

Name decision-makers, other consultants and target dates. A responsibility matrix prevents important interfaces—such as fire approvals, equipment utilities or controls integration—from falling between scopes.

  • Consultant scope by project stage
  • Deliverables, BIM requirements and review cycles
  • Responsibility matrix, approvals and decision owners

PROJECT CHECKLIST

Questions to take into the next meeting

  1. What is the building type, scale, location and project stage?
  2. Are current drawings and surveys available?
  3. Who will occupy and operate the building, and when?
  4. What utilities and constraints are known?
  5. Which performance and sustainability targets apply?
  6. What design, BIM, site and handover deliverables are required?
  7. Who approves decisions and what is the programme?

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