MEP clashes don’t just “slow down” a project—on real sites they create rework, RFIs, change orders, and schedule pressure. The good news is: most of these issues are predictable and can be solved early with a clean BIM coordination process.

In this article, we break down a practical, repeatable workflow that helps architects, consultants, and contractors coordinate HVAC, plumbing, fire, and electrical systems—so your drawings move faster and site teams build with fewer surprises.

1) Start With a Clear Coordination Plan (Before Modeling)

Coordination becomes messy when teams don’t agree on basics. Before detailed modeling begins, align on:

• Model purpose: design coordination, shop drawings, or construction-ready?
• LOD target: LOD 300 for design coordination, LOD 350 for fabrication intent zones.
• File exchange cadence: weekly/bi-weekly model drops with fixed cut-off times.
• Reference controls: levels/grids, shared coordinates, and discipline linking rules.
• Responsibility matrix: who owns which scope (shafts, sleeves, supports, equipment clearances).

This is where many projects win or lose coordination. A one-page “BIM coordination checklist” at the start can save weeks later.

2) Define “Priority Rules” for Routing (The Real Secret)

Clash detection is not the same as clash resolution. Resolution becomes easy when teams follow priority rules, such as:

Your project may require different rules—what matters is agreeing early and applying consistently.

3) Run Clash Tests the Right Way (Not Just “All vs All”)

A common mistake is running every clash against everything. That generates hundreds of “noise” clashes and wastes coordination time. Instead, use structured clash sets:

• Hard clashes: duct vs beam, pipe vs slab, tray vs wall
• Clearance clashes: equipment maintenance zones, access panels, valve clearance
• System-level checks: drainage slope conflicts, fire coverage coordination
• Constructability: sleeve openings, riser alignment, ceiling space constraints

Set tolerances wisely (e.g., 10–25 mm for model tolerance vs 0 mm which creates false positives). Track issues by location and system so teams can close faster.

4) What “Good Deliverables” Look Like

A coordinated model should produce site-friendly outputs, not just a “pretty 3D view.” Strong coordination deliverables typically include:

• Coordinated shop drawings with clear levels, offsets, and hangers notes
• Clash report with status (Open / In Review / Closed) + snapshots
• RFI-ready markups where design decisions are needed
• BOQ / quantities (when scope requires) aligned to model elements
• As-built readiness—model structure prepared for final record updates

When these outputs are consistent, approvals become faster and site teams trust the information.

5) Quick Coordination Checklist (Use This On Any Project)

• Are levels/grids and shared coordinates locked for all disciplines?
• Do we have clear routing priorities (duct vs pipe vs tray etc.)?
• Are clash tests grouped by discipline pairs and tolerance is defined?
• Are equipment clearances and access zones modeled and checked?
• Are openings/sleeves tracked and issued with drawing references?
• Is there a weekly issue closure target and sign-off process?

If you can tick these off, your coordination cycle becomes predictable—and predictability is what protects time and budget.

Conclusion

MEP coordination isn’t about “finding clashes.” It’s about resolving them early, documenting decisions clearly, and issuing buildable drawings. When BIM coordination is done right, projects see fewer RFIs, fewer site conflicts, and smoother installation progress.

Need support on coordination, shop drawings, or as-built BIM? Talent BIM can integrate into your team’s workflow and deliver disciplined, construction-ready outputs.