SBA 520: How to Line Out Your Electrical Subs

Why You Must Line Out Electrical Subcontractors on BAS Projects

A successful building automation system (BAS) project starts with clear communication and proper preparation. One critical step that often gets overlooked is lining out your electrical subcontractors. This task directly affects installation quality, timelines, budgets, and overall system performance.

In episode 520 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, Ethan Morris breaks down the exact steps and strategies for ensuring your electrical subcontractors are set up for success from day one.

What It Means to “Line Out” Electrical Subs

Lining out refers to the process of reviewing scope, expectations, standards, and project-specific details with electrical subcontractors before any installation begins. This is not a paperwork exercise. It is a hands-on, collaborative walkthrough that ensures everyone understands what is required and how to execute the work properly.

Timing and Structure of a Line Out Meeting

A proper line-out should happen before any device is installed, ideally during preconstruction or kickoff. These meetings must be conducted on-site with up-to-date plans and submittals. Key attendees should include the BAS team, the electrical foreman, and the general contractor when appropriate.

This meeting should address general standards, such as wiring color codes, and project-specific nuances, such as unique equipment terminations. The discussion must take place in the mechanical room and at the actual device locations to ensure clarity and alignment.

Core Topics to Cover

A well-executed lineout should include:

• Wiring standards: Specify cable types, shielding, and color coding.
• Conduit usage: Clarify where conduit is required and where it is not.
• Termination points: Show exact locations for inputs, outputs, and communications.
• Labeling: Set clear standards for wire tags, panel labels, and device identifiers.
• Power requirements: Indicate which devices need continuous or specific voltage power.
• Drawing clarifications: Review diagrams and sequences in the field.
• Testing expectations: Emphasize voltage checks and continuity testing.

Communication and Documentation Practices

Use visual aids and checklists. Document every discussion and follow up with written summaries that your subcontractors can refer to. Keep communication open throughout the entire project and provide frequent feedback. A line-out is not a one-time event. It is part of ongoing coordination.

Mistakes That Cost Time and Money

Skipping the line out entirely is one of the most common and damaging mistakes. Another is assuming electricians understand BAS-specific wiring, which they often do not. Failing to verify their work or providing unclear documentation also leads to major rework during commissioning.

Real-World Examples

Three scenarios highlight the consequences of poor line-outs:

1. A hospital retrofit project lacked wire labeling, resulting in 3 days of labor and troubleshooting communication issues.
2. A VFD was miswired due to a misunderstanding of termination points, causing delays during testing.
3. Conflicting diagrams were resolved because the controls contractor had proper documentation from the line out.

Keeping the Process Active

Continue coordination after the initial meeting. Conduct weekly field checks, update redlines, and give constructive feedback. Share changes with subcontractors promptly. Reinforce expectations and stay involved until the project is complete.

Equip Your Subs

Provide tools like electrical line out checklists, labeling guides, redline drawing samples, and communication templates. The more guidance and resources you offer, the fewer mistakes your subcontractors will make.

Final Takeaways

• Line outs save time, money, and frustration.
• Clarity upfront leads to smoother execution.
• Documentation protects your team and the project.
• A strong partnership between electricians and BAS teams ensures better outcomes.

Set the tone early and maintain communication throughout. That is how you lead a BAS project with fewer errors and better results.

For a deeper discussion and insights from the field, listen to this episode on the Smart Buildings Academy podcast.