Recently, our in-house engineers were checking a new boiler. While it produced hot water, the controls were improperly set so it cycled on to full heat and then quickly shut down as the temperature met the set point. This is something like driving your car by pressing the gas pedal to the floor when the light turns green and then slamming on the brakes when you get to the next red light. Obviously, your fuel cost will be higher, and your car wont last as long but you will get to your destination.
One solution offered to avoid these issues is independent or third-party commissioning, also known as validation, start-up, operational hand-off or systems certification. In the broadest and simplest terms, this is the process for ensuring the building actually works when it is turned over to the owner. And its a growing business for many mechanical/electrical-consulting engineers.