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What Is a Control Submittal in Construction and How Is It Prepared?

November 19, 2025


A control submittal is a specialized document package used in mechanical, electrical, and building automation projects. It describes how HVAC, lighting, security, and energy systems will be monitored, controlled, and integrated through the Building Automation System (BAS).

In simple terms:
A control submittal shows how the building will “think” and operate.

What a Control Submittal Includes a typical controls submittal contains:

  • Control system architecture
  • Network riser diagrams
  • Wiring diagrams and point-to-point connections
  • Sequence of operations (SOO)
  • Controller and device data sheets
  • Control valve and sensor specifications
  • Input/Output (I/O) summary
  • Equipment control drawings (AHU, VAV, Chillers, Boilers, Pumps, etc.)
  • Integration details for HVAC, lighting, fire alarm, metering, etc.
  • BAS graphics samples (optional but common)
  1. Review the Project Documents

Controls engineers study:

  • Mechanical plans
  • Electrical drawings
  • Equipment schedules
  • Project specifications
  • Sequence of operations

This helps them understand how the system needs to function.

  1. Select Controllers and Field Devices

Based on the design, they choose:

  • DDC controllers
  • Sensors and actuators
  • Control valves
  • Communication modules
  • Network infrastructure (BACnet, Modbus, MSTP, IP, etc.)
  1. Create System Architecture and Network Diagrams

This shows how controllers, networks, and devices connect across the building.

  1. Develop Control Drawings and Schematics

Each major equipment (AHU, VAV, pump, chiller) gets a dedicated control diagram showing:

  • Control loops
  • Sensor locations
  • Actuator wiring
  • Safety interlocks
  1. Prepare the Sequence of Operations (SOO)

This is the heart of the BAS—it explains how equipment operates under different conditions:

  • Occupied/unoccupied modes
  • Temperature control logic
  • Alarms and safety shutdowns
  • Energy-optimization strategies
  1. Add Product Data Sheets and Cut Sheets

Manufacturers’ documents are attached as part of the package.

  1. Internal QA Review

Senior engineers verify:

  • Accuracy
  • Compliance with specifications
  • Coordination with mechanical/electrical trades
  1. Submit for Approval

The controls contractor sends the submittal to:

  • General contractor → then to
  • Mechanical engineer/consultant → then
  • Owner (in some projects)

Feedback is incorporated and final approval is obtained.

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