Buildings + Beyond Podcast
Construction Diaries: Lessons Learned From SWA’s Inspection & Verification Experts
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Featuring
Dylan Martello
Dylan is a Senior Building Systems Consultant and Certified Passive House Designer with Steven Winter Associates, Inc. specializing in Passive House and Net Zero projects. Dylan works with project architects and engineers to assist in the design of extremely energy efficient buildings. His direct project experience on large-scale Passive House certified or pre-certified projects comprises a wide range of use types such as high rise multifamily, core and shell offices, hotels, and industrial facilities.
Jenny Powell
As a Building Systems Director at Steven Winter Associates, Jenny focuses on LEED Fundamental and Enhanced commissioning projects, as well as commissioning for energy code compliance.
Joe Andracchio
As a Principal Mechanical Engineer and Sustainability Consultant at Steven Winter Associates, Joseph manages both new and existing green building projects throughout the Mid-Atlantic, including LEED Homes and Multifamily Midrise, National Green Building Standard, Enterprise Green Communities, ENERGY STAR and multiple existing building incentive programs.
Michael Schmidt
Michael Schmidt is a Senior Building Systems Consultant with a focus on performance testing, field inspections, and verification of energy efficacy measures on projects pursuing Passive House certification. He consults with project teams throughout design and construction, with early involvement in plan reviews and later final testing to ensure actual performance meets design specifications. His Construction Management education, along with hands-on experience, allows him to collaborate and problem-solve with project teams. Michael is accredited in both the Passive House US (PHIUS) and International (PHI) standards.
One of the main drivers behind a successful building project is third-party inspection and verification. This critical, yet often overlooked, step in the construction process is designed to help buildings achieve a desired quality of performance and can also help save project teams substantial time and money along the way.
That being said, the role of an inspector or verifier is not for the faint of heart. They are often scrutinized and even blamed for “slowing progress” following a construction intervention. In reality, these dedicated professionals are actually looking out for the project’s best interest and save time in the long-run by preventing costly repairs. Without them, building performance and occupant health and comfort could be compromised.
In this episode, we invited three inspection and verification professionals from Steven Winter Associates to shed light on the challenges they face while inspecting construction projects. We learn what they look for when they are on site and how they reach solutions with project teams when standards are not being met. This engaging roundtable discussion is a great reminder of just how valuable a third-party inspector can be.
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About Buildings and Beyond
Buildings and Beyond is the podcast that explores how we can create a more sustainable built environment by focusing on efficiency, accessibility, and health.
Buildings and Beyond is a production of Steven Winter Associates. We provide energy, green building, and accessibility consulting services to improve the built environment. For more information, visit swinter.com.
Hosts: Robb Aldrich | Kelly Westby
Production Team: Heather Breslin | Alex Mirabile | Dylan Martello