Introduction On many projects, MEP consultants are appointed too late—often after key architectural decisions have already been made. This commonly leads to avoidable redesign, increased costs and programme delays. Early appointment at RIBA Stage 1 allows MEP strategy, space planning and compliance considerations to shape the project from the outset. The problem with late appointment When MEP is brought in late, teams often discover there is insufficient plant space, inadequate riser capacity, or conflicts between the façade concept and ventilation strategy. Energy compliance, overheating risk and utility capacity can also surface too late, forcing expensive changes at planning or technical stages. The cost and programme risks Late MEP input typically increases design iterations and creates construction-stage uncertainty. It can also trigger delays to Building Regulations approval or tender, and drives changes on site that affect quality and cost certainty. ABUK’s early-stage process At RIBA Stage 1, ABUK contributes to the project brief and performance targets, develops early services and energy strategy, and identifies spatial and compliance constraints. We also provide high-level plant space, riser and distribution guidance so the architectural concept can evolve with realistic, buildable building services allowances. Real example (anonymised) On a residential-led scheme, early MEP involvement identified that the proposed roof plant strategy would not meet the energy target within available space. Adjustments at Stage 1 avoided major redesign later and helped protect the programme by preventing a planning-stage rework cycle. Conclusion Early MEP appointment is not an added cost—it is risk mitigation. It reduces redesign, protects programme certainty, and improves the chance of delivering the building performance promised at concept stage.