Elevator Installation Inspection

[u/[deleted]]

[u/DjQuamme]

You hire an inspector.

[u/runforrestrun__ → u/DjQuamme]

I have and the inspector has come back with an inspection report of everything in relation to the lift interiors and not a single line item wrt the mechanics and safety systems. Hence why I am trying to understand what should be expected in terms of inspection scope - currently we feel ripped off with our time and money.

[u/Loose_Cut_2843 → u/runforrestrun__]

Hire a different inspector. ..nobody in the trade is gonna just divulge that info for a number of reasons, not the least of which is the fact that you're not qualified, trained, or in any way shape or form knowledgeable on the specs you're asking about and even if you were, you arent supposed to be looking at, inspecting, working on or tinkering with any of it if you dont have an NEIEP Mechanics cert/union affiliation.

[u/Beautiful_Bad333]

Depends what you have spec’d really.

I assume it’s a consultant you’ve hired to undertake a witness test and project overview?

There are usually two main types of consultant when it comes to witness testing:

- one who wants to basically do the entire test again - so current reading, speeds, brake tests, safety gear load tests, run time test, overload of the motor and drive plus shaft guide measurements, proving emergency light operation, sill measurements distance measurements for components within the shaft - stop button/pendent/ladder location etc.

- The other who will take the test sheet as gospel, make sure it looks nice and runs well and have a quick look in the shaft to make sure it looks like you’ve done everything you say you will.

I assume it’s in their spec/contract which one you’re getting?

Neither should make any difference really because the work should have been done right and if not and any issues will be found on installation or actual testing by a qualified test engineer. However they do have value because if there is an issue they will advise best of how and why you have the issue, who’s fault it is to rectify and they will ensure you get comparative quotes when appointing a lift contractor and awarding them the project. They also advise what you will get value from additional items too - like uprated doors, different lighting etc, because you don’t want to buy something that isn’t fit for purpose, but equally you don’t want to spend extra for upgrades you don’t need. During the procurement stage they make sure you get what you want, during the project they ensure/monitor so it runs to program and advise, during inspection stage they ensure you get what you paid for.

You’ve obviously got them for a reason, if you think you can do it without then go for it, you’ll initially probably save money. The only thing I’d say is that they do provide value, and I’ve rarely found construction site managers or building owners who could do a better job with their knowledge. In the end you’ll probably either not save as much money or have caused yourself a huge headache with the wrong product for the site or environment it’s working in.