What to Look for in an Independent Elevator Consultant

When building owners and property managers begin exploring elevator upgrades, maintenance concerns, or performance issues, one of the most important steps they can take is bringing an independent elevator consultant onto the team. Elevators are technical, highly regulated, and often one of the largest capital expenses in a facility. The right consultant becomes your advocate—ensuring safety, transparency, and cost-effective decisions.

But not all consultants offer the same level of expertise or objectivity. Here’s what to look for when selecting the right partner.

1. True Independence and Objectivity

The most critical trait is complete independence from elevator manufacturers and service providers. A consultant should never receive commissions, incentives, or referral fees from contractors. Their sole obligation must be to you, the owner.

If a consultant “partners” with a maintenance company or routinely recommends one brand over another, that’s a red flag.

2. Deep Technical Knowledge and Field Experience

Elevators blend mechanical systems, electronics, safety equipment, and complex control logic. A consultant should have:

  • Hands-on field experience
  • Strong understanding of ASME A17.1 and jurisdictional requirements
  • A track record with modernization, construction, and maintenance evaluation
  • Familiarity with all major OEMs and third-party equipment

This ensures their recommendations are rooted in real-world expertise, not theory.

3. Clear, Detailed, and Defensible Reporting

A high-quality consultant produces reports that are:

  • Easy to understand
  • Thorough and data-driven
  • Supported by photos, measurements, and standardized assessment methods
  • Written so owners and boards can make informed decisions

Vague reports filled with generalities don’t help anyone.

4. Ability to Develop Strong Project Specifications

If modernization or large-scale repairs are coming, a consultant’s specification is arguably the most important document in the entire process. A good spec:

  • Defines the full scope of work
  • Ensures contractors are bidding apples-to-apples
  • Establishes quality standards and performance metrics
  • Reduces change-order opportunities
  • Protects the owner from scope creep

Weak or template-style specs often favor contractors—not owners.

5. Transparent Cost Analysis and Budgeting Skills

Elevator work is expensive, and pricing varies widely. Look for a consultant who can:

  • Benchmark pricing
  • Identify inflated or unnecessary proposals
  • Prioritize equipment needs
  • Build realistic capital plans
  • Forecast long-term expenses

This helps prevent the surprise repairs and emergency replacements that derail budgets.

6. Strong Communication and Owner Advocacy

Consultants should:

  • Explain technical issues in plain language
  • Attend meetings with owners, boards, or engineers
  • Mediate with contractors when disputes arise
  • Provide unbiased guidance through complex decisions

A consultant’s job is not just analysis—it’s advocacy.

7. A Process-Oriented Approach

A reputable consultant follows a clear methodology:

  • Site evaluation
  • Documentation review
  • Condition assessment
  • Code compliance check
  • Preventive maintenance analysis
  • Final recommendations

A structured workflow ensures nothing is overlooked and all decisions are justified.

8. Familiarity With the Latest Technology and Code Changes

From destination dispatching to digital monitoring to the 2019 emergency communication requirements, elevator technology and codes evolve rapidly. Your consultant needs to stay current so your building doesn’t get left behind—or left noncompliant.

9. Proven Project Management Capability

Modernization projects require diligent oversight. A skilled consultant will:

  • Review shop drawings
  • Conduct factory and site inspections
  • Approve milestones and payments
  • Validate testing
  • Ensure the final product matches the spec

This protects you from shortcuts that affect long-term performance.

10. A Reputation Built on Trust and Results

Finally, look for:

  • Strong references
  • Project history
  • Professional certifications
  • Clear ethics
  • Repeat client relationships

The best consultants earn trust through consistency and transparency.

Final Thoughts

An independent elevator consultant is one of the most valuable partners a building owner can have—especially as equipment ages, costs rise, and regulations evolve. With the right consultant, you gain clarity, protection, and confidence that your elevators are being managed with your best interests in mind.

If you’d like a tailored assessment or help evaluating your current elevator portfolio, feel free to reach out to KDA Elevator Consultants at john@kdaelevatorconsultants.com or 484-995-3642.