Building Automation Services & DDC Controls
in BC Interior

Building Automation: Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a building automation system cost?

Building automation cost depends on the size of your building, how many systems you're bringing under control, and whether it's new construction or a retrofit of existing equipment. A single-system HVAC controls upgrade sits at the low end. A full integration covering HVAC, lighting, access and fire alarm across several buildings sits at the high end. Ask us for a site assessment and a real number.

How long does a building automation installation take?

Timelines depend on the scope and whether your building stays occupied during the work. A controls retrofit on a single system can be done in days. A full building integration on new construction runs alongside the mechanical and electrical schedule and takes months. We'll give you a timeline as part of the scope, not after the work starts.

Can Kimco integrate with our existing building automation system?

Usually, yes. Most modern building automation runs on BACnet, an open communication standard, which means controllers from different manufacturers can talk to each other. Kimco regularly takes over and upgrades systems installed by other contractors. We'll assess what you have before recommending anything, because a phased upgrade is often better value than a full replacement.

What is Delta Controls Red5, and why does Kimco use it?

Red5 is the current generation of Delta Controls BACnet controllers, replacing the older DSC and DAC-E lines with faster processing, more onboard memory and IoT connectivity. Kimco is an exclusive Delta Controls dealer in BC's Interior, so our technicians complete manufacturer training before deploying it. Read how we evaluate and roll out Red5.

Do we have to replace our whole system to upgrade to Red5?

Not usually. Delta built the Red5-FIELD line as a pin-for-pin retrofit for its legacy DAC controllers, meaning it swaps in using the same wiring connections. That lets many buildings upgrade the controllers without replacing the field devices, wiring or mechanical equipment around them. We'll confirm what applies to your building during the assessment.

Can we manage multiple buildings from one interface?

Yes. A building automation system can bring several facilities under a single interface, so your team monitors and adjusts every site from one place instead of visiting each one. School districts and multi-site organizations use this to catch problems early and cut down time spent troubleshooting. It also makes energy reporting across a portfolio far simpler.

What building systems can Kimco bring under one platform?

Kimco integrates HVAC, lighting, geothermal, security and access control, CCTV, fire alarm, gas detection and alarming, solar, air quality and demand ventilation, and energy management. We're the only contractor in BC's Interior that handles automation, HVAC and electrical in house, which removes the handoffs between trades that usually complicate integration work.

Who supports the system after it's installed?

Kimco does. Our technicians can monitor system data remotely from our offices and flag small issues before they turn into failures. Building automation service agreements cover ongoing support, and 24/7 emergency help is available at 250-491-2282. The same local technicians who installed your system are the ones who service it.

Are there rebates for building automation upgrades in BC?

Yes. BC Hydro and FortisBC both run incentive programs for energy-efficient building upgrades, and controls improvements often qualify. Kimco's team tracks which programs apply to which work, so we can flag available funding while scoping your project rather than after you've paid for it. See current rebate programs.