TM44 Inspection Checklist: What Assessors Look for in Your Commercial AC System

For commercial property owners and facilities managers, preparing for a TM44 air conditioning inspection can feel daunting. However, knowing exactly what assessors are looking for can turn a stressful process into a strategic advantage. This comprehensive checklist breaks down the inspection process step by step so you know how to prepare, what’s being assessed, and how to get the most from your TM44 report.

An efficient, well-prepared inspection not only ensures compliance but also uncovers ways to reduce energy usage and operational costs. Use this checklist to understand what TM44 assessors evaluate—and how to meet or exceed expectations.

System Identification and Overview

• • Type of air conditioning system(s): split, multi-split, VRF/VRV, central plant, etc.

  • Manufacturer, model, and age of each unit

  • System capacity (must exceed 12kW total to qualify for TM44)

  • Layout and zone coverage

Documentation Review

• • Maintenance records (at least two years preferred)

  • Operational schedules and manuals

  • System drawings or schematics

  • Energy usage data if available

Visual Inspection Components

• Outdoor condenser units and indoor fan coil units
• Filters, ductwork, and insulation
• Electrical connections and pipework
• Obvious signs of wear, damage, or lack of maintenance

Control Systems Assessment

• Thermostats and programmable controls
• Zoning capabilities
• Time schedules (set appropriately for occupancy?)
• Occupant override settings and their usage

Operational Efficiency Review

• Are systems running more than necessary?

• Is cooling provided in unoccupied zones?

• Are control settings leading to energy waste?

Sizing and Suitability

• Are systems correctly sized for the building’s current usage?

• Are there signs of oversizing or poor distribution?

Recommendations for Improvement

• Potential for upgrades (e.g., inverter drives, better control systems)

• Suggested changes to maintenance schedules

• Opportunities to reduce cooling loads

• Ensure all equipment is accessible and safe to inspect

• Gather maintenance logs, manuals, and control strategies

• Notify building occupants in advance (if necessary)

• Inform your facilities team or contractor

• Provide previous TM44 reports (if applicable)

• Offer building energy performance certificates (EPCs)

• Share utility bills or sub-metering data

You’ll receive a TM44 report detailing:

• • Summary of findings

  • Areas of non-compliance or concern

  • Recommendations for energy efficiency

  • Legal confirmation of compliance for five years

Preparation is the key to a successful TM44 inspection. With this checklist, commercial property owners and managers can confidently approach the inspection process, knowing exactly what assessors will be evaluating and how to optimize system performance.

Need help preparing for your TM44 inspection? Our certified assessors offer pre-inspection consultations to ensure you’re ready. Contact us today.