According to theCMAA Construction Management Standards of Practice (SOP), underChapter 2 – Project Management, the process of shifting a project from the construction phase to full operational use by the owner is referred to as“Turnover.”
The CMAA definesturnoveras:
“The formal process of transitioning a completed facility or project from the construction phase to the owner’s operations and maintenance organization. This process ensures that all systems, documentation, warranties, and training have been completed and accepted in accordance with contract requirements.”
This stage signifies theend of construction management responsibilitiesand thebeginning of the owner’s operational phase. The Construction Manager’s role during turnover includes verifying that:
All contractual deliverables and closeout documents are completed.
Operations and maintenance manuals are submitted.
Training for facility staff has been conducted.
The owner has formally accepted the project for occupancy and use.
While terms such as “O&M” (operations and maintenance), “move-in,” and “beneficial occupancy” are related concepts, they describe specific activities or conditions within the broader turnover process. The CMAA recognizes“turnover”as the overarching term describing the transition from construction completion to owner operations.
References (CMAA Construction Manager Documents / Study Guide):
CMAA Construction Management Standards of Practice, 2010 Edition, Chapter 2 – Project Management, Section: “Project Closeout and Turnover,” pp. 28–30.
CMAA CM Study Guide, Project Management Domain, Objective 2.6: “Manage project turnover and closeout in accordance with contract requirements.”
