About DFT Elevator Consulting
Independent Expertise. Proven Leadership. Real-World Experience.
DFT Elevator Consulting provides independent elevator consulting services to building owners, HOAs, property managers, attorneys, and facility operators throughout California.
Founded by Dave Thomas, DFT Elevator Consulting is backed by decades of experience in the construction & elevator industry. Dave is an active California Certified Conveyance Mechanic, General Contractor, and QEI inspector who currently serves in leadership roles in the field, including overseeing elevator installations, modernization projects, repairs, and complex troubleshooting operations.
His experience extends across the full lifecycle of elevator systems—from new construction and modernization to maintenance, repair, commissioning, testing, and long-term asset planning. Dave has worked on projects ranging from low-rise residential buildings to high-rise developments, including new installation projects exceeding 50 stops.
Having built elevator systems from the ground up, he understands what goes into every phase of a project: construction coordination, machine room layout, equipment installation, controllers and drives, electrical interfaces, safety testing, code compliance, turnover, and long-term maintainability. This field-tested perspective allows DFT Elevator Consulting to provide practical solutions grounded in real-world experience.
Unlike contractors whose primary responsibility is to perform the work, DFT Elevator Consulting serves as an independent advisor focused solely on protecting the client’s interests. Whether reviewing repair recommendations, planning a modernization, supporting reserve studies, overseeing projects, or providing expert witness services, our goal is to help clients make informed decisions with confidence.
Dave Thomas, CCCM, QEI, GC
Qualified Elevator Inspector • California Certified Conveyance Mechanic • Licensed General Contractor • High-Rise & New Installation Specialist
Active field leader overseeing complex installations, modernizations, audits, and troubleshooting operations across California.
Engineered for Safety, Designed for Reliability
Our Commitment
Guiding Principles for Safe Operations
At DFT Elevator Consulting, we don’t just understand elevator systems—we understand how they are built, how they operate, and how to help clients maximize their performance, reliability, and lifespan.
- Independent, Unbiased Evaluations: We work directly for building owners and managers, never for elevator contractors.
- Practical and Cost-Effective Recommendations: Focused recommendations designed to stretch equipment lifespans and budgets.
- Technical Expertise Backed by Field Experience: Hands-on technical knowledge from active QEI and conveyance mechanics.
- Professional Integrity and Transparency: Straightforward pricing, detailed deliverables, and reliable schedule reporting.
- Long-Term Value for Stakeholders: Dedicated to preserving vertical transit assets and protecting capital expenditures.
Need a Trusted Partner?
Unbiased vertical transportation guidance will protect your building’s safety, keep your systems up to code, and help you avoid unnecessary repair or modernization costs.