Why Temporary Utilities Matter in Tenant Construction

Interior renovations don’t start with a blank slate—they often begin in a partially finished, sometimes occupied building with limited access. This puts pressure on field teams to establish temporary infrastructure for things like:

• Jobsite power and lighting
• Temporary HVAC or heating
• Sanitation stations and portable restrooms
• Temporary water supply
• Internet/network connectivity (depending on the job)

Not only are these critical for worker productivity and safety, but they’re also often required by OSHA and local codes to maintain compliance during construction activities. Even a one-week delay in setting up basic power or lighting can ripple through a tightly sequenced TI schedule.

Temporary Power and Lighting: The First Step

Temporary power is usually the first utility your crew will need. Whether you’re cutting walls, running scissor lifts, or charging cordless tools, power is non-negotiable.

Options include:

• Generators: Ideal for early-stage work before permanent panels are energized. Sizing depends on your load, runtime needs, and indoor/outdoor constraints.
• Panelboards and spider boxes: These can be tied into existing service or a generator and distributed throughout the site.
• String lighting and task lighting: Don’t underestimate lighting needs. Low ceilings, enclosed corridors, and minimal daylight mean you’ll likely need a mix of overhead and portable lighting systems.

Coordinate early with base building management on electrical access points or permission to tap into house power.

For safety and code compliance, consult osha.gov and nfpa.org for guidance on temporary wiring and electrical safety.

Temporary HVAC and Ventilation

When TI work involves demoing drywall, framing, paint, flooring, or anything that releases particulates or fumes, you’ll need ventilation—especially in sealed commercial buildings.

Depending on the season and type of space, you might need:

• Portable air conditioners or spot coolers
• Electric heaters or indirect-fired heaters
• Negative air machines with HEPA filters
• Temporary ductwork and plenums

This is especially critical in phased renovations or occupied buildings where tenant comfort and indoor air quality are factors.

Also keep in mind that some landlords prohibit connection to the base building HVAC until the project reaches a certain milestone—making temporary equipment your only option for weeks or months.

Sanitation Services and Restroom Solutions

When working in buildings where restrooms are offline, locked, or too far away, you’ll need to provide jobsite sanitation for your team.

Common options include:

• Standard portable restrooms
• Restroom trailers for larger crews or extended durations
• Handwashing stations for hygiene compliance
• Sanitizer stands at entry points and break areas

Most jurisdictions require a set number of facilities based on headcount, and failure to provide them can lead to fines or shutdowns.

See osha.gov for the sanitation requirements specific to construction.

Temporary Water Access

If your renovation requires floor prep, masonry work, dust control, or fire protection work like core drilling or sprinkler installation, temporary water hookups may be needed.

Where potable water is unavailable, mobile water tanks or pumping stations can be brought in. Be sure to:

• Verify backflow preventers for temporary connections
• Work with the building to identify nearby tap points
• Plan for graywater disposal if using large volumes

Other Site Services to Consider

Beyond the “big three” of power, HVAC, and restrooms, TI jobs may also require:

• Trash and debris handling – roll-off dumpsters, compactors, or chute systems
• Site fencing or partitions – for safety and dust control in occupied buildings
• Traffic control and signage – if material deliveries or lift work spill into public spaces
• Internet/network drops – helpful for GC trailers, jobsite cameras, or connected tools

Downstream: Your Partner for Temporary Site Services

At Downstream, we understand the logistical challenges of interior buildouts. Unlike greenfield sites, tenant construction demands quick mobilization, flexible delivery, and minimal disruption to surrounding tenants or operations.

We supply and coordinate:

• Portable sanitation (restrooms, trailers, handwash units)
• Temporary HVAC (cooling, heating, negative air machines)
• Generators and distribution for temporary power and lighting
• Jobsite fencing, signage, and partitions
• Roll-off dumpsters and debris hauling

Let our team help you line up the right equipment at the right time—no delays, no hassles. Learn more at trydownstream.com.

Final Thoughts: Plan Early, Stay Productive

Temporary utilities and jobsite services are more than a checklist item—they’re the backbone of a smooth TI project. Without power, light, fresh air, or a place to wash up, your schedule can quickly unravel.

Whether you’re renovating a single floor or an entire building, plan your temporary setup early. Talk to building management, lock in your utility vendors, and make sure your crews have what they need to hit the ground running.

And when you’re ready to source temporary jobsite equipment, remember: Downstream has your back.

Sources:

• osha.gov
• nfpa.org

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