Why ELV Modelling Often Gets Deprioritised

On many UAE projects, ELV systems get modelled last and at lower detail than mechanical, electrical and plumbing disciplines, since ELV is often seen as a lower-value trade compared to the major MEP systems — this leads to ELV containment and equipment clashing with ductwork, pipework and structure that were coordinated without ELV in the room.

Common ELV Clash Categories

  • ELV containment routes clashing with mechanical ductwork in ceiling voids
  • Fire alarm devices and CCTV camera positions clashing with structural elements or sprinkler heads
  • Access control and intercom equipment clashing with architectural finishes not accounted for in early ELV placement
  • Riser space contention between ELV, electrical and mechanical systems

A Practical Coordination Workflow

ASDV integrates ELV modelling into the same federated model and clash detection cycle as other MEP disciplines from an early design stage — rather than modelling ELV separately and attempting to reconcile clashes only once other disciplines are already locked in — participating in the same coordination meetings and clash reports the mechanical and electrical teams use.

Setting LOD Expectations for ELV

UAE project BEPs should specify the same LOD progression for ELV as for other MEP disciplines at each project stage (LOD 300 for coordination, LOD 400 for construction issue) rather than leaving ELV at a lower, representative-only level of detail that can't meaningfully participate in clash detection.