There was a chart somewhere I used to use for reference, you might be able to good search it, its from another forum. But the jist of what is said for rules of thumb is that assuming heat is controlled, you never want a 1000w closer than 12" to any part of the plant. And for optimal lighting, you don't want the furthest growth further than about 32". These numbers are approximate and off the top of my head however.
I don't remember where I got this info from, but I use a cheap light meter, and hold it over various areas of where I want light, and make sure I'm getting 2000-2500+ lumens on that area at least. Keep in mind this is with a 1000w HID, I don't know the standards for lumens on T5s. When I use t5 for anything but seedlings, I put it as close as I can without physically touching the leaves with the bulbs.