Renovating or converting an existing space into a SCIF or SAPF is not a simpler version of building one from scratch. In many ways, it is harder — and the risks are less visible until they are expensive.

The rumor mill is focused on a Tech Spec update. But the real changes coming to ICD/ICS 705 go far deeper — sweeping policy-level shifts that will affect every SCIF and SAPF in the Intelligence Community. Here's what to expect and how to prepare.

Most accreditation problems on SCIF projects are not caused by what happened at the end. They are caused by what was not done at the beginning.

The big story in 2025 was not a brand-new public ICD-705 release. It is the way existing ICD/ICS 705 requirements are being applied in practice: earlier package submissions, stronger preconstruction review, tighter coordination with security stakeholders, and less tolerance for late-stage fixes. For SCIF owners, designers, and contractors, that means compliance work has to start sooner.

In ICD 705, SCIF, and SAPF construction, RFIs are more than administrative clarifications — they are early indicators of technical risk. Poorly defined scope, construction security gaps, and policy conflicts can expose contractors to cost, schedule, and accreditation failures. Understanding what to question — and when — is often what separates secure construction expertise from assumption.

Secure facility projects don’t fail because teams aren’t capable, they struggle when understanding isn’t shared. Education helps align teams and reduce risk across SCIF work.

Every secure facility project is different. Scope, timing, and level of involvement vary based on project phase, complexity, and the type of support needed. We use a short intake to understand your situation and determine whether our advisory services are appropriate. If it looks like we can help, we’ll follow up to discuss potential next steps and provide a project-specific quote. Submitting a request does not obligate you to engage PSC.