Division 25 Integrated Automation

Manufacturer or Product Substitution in Division 25 Integrated Automation submittals

By Deviation Check Editorial Team. Last reviewed June 1, 2026.

Short answer

The submittal proposes a different manufacturer or product than the spec names, without an approved or-equal or substitution request. Default grade in Division 25 Integrated Automation: Blocker.

The submittal proposes a different manufacturer or product than the spec names, without an approved or-equal or substitution request. This guide covers how it shows up specifically in Division 25 Integrated Automation submittals.

What to look for in Division 25 Integrated Automation

BAS specs typically name a platform with specific controller families (e.g., "Johnson Controls Metasys with CGM/CVM controllers, or approved equal"). Submittals often propose alternative platforms without an approved equal letter. Look for:

  • BAS platform substitutions (Metasys, Desigo CC, Niagara/Tridium, EcoStruxure, Tracer, WebCTRL)
  • Controller hardware swaps (Delta Controls, Distech Controls, KMC Controls replacing specified manufacturer)
  • Sensor and transmitter brand changes that affect calibration or wiring compatibility
  • Graphics workstation and server hardware substitutions
  • Field-level device substitutions (actuators, damper/valve controllers) from a different ecosystem
  • Software platform version substitutions (e.g., older release lacking specified features)
  • Third-party integration middleware replacing the specified native solution

How severe is it?

Default grade: Blocker. Drops to a Note if the submittal attaches an or-equal approval letter from the architect of record.

Deviation Check assigns a default per category and escalates or de-escalates based on the spec, always showing its reasoning. See the Division 25 severity rules.

What the PM should do

Treat this as a hold. Do not approve the submittal until the sub resolves it, either by providing the specified product and documentation or by routing an approved substitution or or-equal request. Return the relevant spec passage to the sub as a redline.

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Frequently asked questions

What counts as a manufacturer substitution in Division 25 Integrated Automation submittals, and which platforms trigger a blocker flag?

Any proposed BAS platform or controller family not named in the spec and not accompanied by an approved or-equal letter is a substitution. Common triggers include swapping Metasys for Desigo CC, EcoStruxure, Niagara/Tridium, Tracer, or WebCTRL, and controller hardware changes to Delta Controls, Distech Controls, or KMC Controls replacing the specified manufacturer.

How does a subcontractor clear a BAS platform substitution flag in a Division 25 Integrated Automation submittal?

The sub must attach an or-equal approval letter from the architect of record. Without that letter, the deviation stays a blocker regardless of the proposed platform's capabilities. The letter drops the severity to a note. Third-party integration middleware and older software releases lacking specified features are also substitutions that require the same letter.

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