A thorough commercial building inspection is important when you buy a commercial property.

This can help in safeguarding your investment and making informed decisions. Commercial property inspection covers a range of aspects that are inspected. This ranges from structural integrity to safety compliance. It also includes environmental concerns and zoning regulations.

In this blog, we will highlight some of the major inspections that your property will undergo. We will also discuss the process of commercial building inspection. Further, we will also discuss when you may conduct these inspections.

Needed Inspections for a Commercial Property

Five Major Systems Inspection

Commercial buildings typically have five major systems. These are electrical, mechanical, HVAC, structural, and plumbing.

Inspectors check the condition of each of these systems.

If a system is not up to par, the inspector will document whether there is a need for immediate repair.

They will also provide a life expectancy estimate for the eventual replacement.

This inspection will also cover fire systems, building alarms, and sprinkler systems.

While for other specialized systems, you may need specialized inspectors or contractors.

Documentation Assessment

Commercial building inspectors check several documents during the inspection.

These may include surveys, fire safety certificates, and environmental studies. Moreover, it also contains important documents like planning applications and construction documentation.

This assessment ensures that your building complies with all the building codes and regulations.

Furthermore, inspectors review repair and maintenance histories to identify any potential issues that may need attention. The inspectors also interview facilities and maintenance staff.

Reviewing these documents helps identify potential issues. Your inspector will also advise you on the next steps you must undertake for remediation.

Exterior Inspection

Exterior inspection lets the inspector observe any building structural integrity issues.

This covers inspecting the landscaping, roofing, exterior siding, gutters, and downpipes.

An exterior inspection can uncover issues that affect the property’s stability and worth. This gives them insights into the general condition of the property.

Furthermore, assessing the entire building envelope is crucial. This affects the property’s ability to endure weather extremes, energy efficiency, and occupant comfort.

Interior Inspection

Checking the interior of a property is a significant step of the inspection. In commercial inspections, there are many elements that the inspector will consider.

The inspector might look at hazards, walls, windows, kitchen facilities, and fire safety risks. They will also assess the building’s operation and aesthetic appeal. They will also cover an inspection of several components. These components may include general layout, ceiling, lighting, and flooring.

An interior inspection ensures these components are in good condition. This is because they impact the everyday operations and well-being of the occupants.

Environmental Inspection

This inspection addresses the environmental issues.

Environmental issues directly impact numerous factors. Firstly, it impacts the well-being of the building’s occupants. Secondly, it has an impact on the neighborhood. And thirdly, it affects the property’s long-term viability.

Various factors can cause environmental dangers and contamination. These factors may involve natural occurrences, improper waste disposal, chemical usage, and past or current industrial activity. It is crucial to recognize and check these problems to make wise decisions. And reduce potential dangers related to the property.

During the inspection, inspectors look for any groundwater and soil contamination. They may also look out for asbestos, issues with air quality, and lead-based paint. This inspection helps identify hidden threats that might not be immediately obvious. The inspection aims to protect both the investment and the occupants.

When to Conduct A Commercial Building Inspection?

There is no “best time” for conducting a building inspection. But, it is better to have a commercial building inspection before purchasing a property.

You can have an inspection any day, time, all year round.

These inspections are not just the beginning and end of leases or purchases. They can also help building managers maintain structural integrity and safety.

Commercial building inspections are vital for keeping the assets valuable and maintaining the excellent condition of the building. They also impact the safety and happiness of employees/occupants.

The Process of a Commercial Inspection

The inspector will highlight any issues in an inspection report during the inspection. This will include the recommended course of action and how severe the problem is.

This comprehensive inspection report will detail the inspector’s findings, provided to the parties of interest. These are usually the property owner, the buyer, and the real estate agent.

Some common issues that inspectors identify during a commercial property inspection include plumbing problems, structural damage, and electrical issues. During the inspection, the inspectors might also find pest infestations, water damage, mold, and mildew growth.

A commercial property inspection has several benefits, and identifying potential issues early on is the very first. Property inspections also allow for necessary repairs. They also allow to make upgrades before transferring or selling the property.

This can save the buyer or owner significant costs and prevent future legal or financial issues related to the property. After conducting the inspection, home inspectors document and analyze their findings and observations. They may also record the property’s condition by taking photos, samples, videos, notes, and measurements.

They will also collect and organize documents they reviewed during the inspection. Then, they’ll compare their inspection results. An inspector will also identify and quantify the property’s strengths and weaknesses.

Once everything’s done, they’ll offer reports to help make informed decisions. Quality inspectors will also give recommendations regarding the property. 

Commercial Property Inspection Is a Wise Investment Decision

A thorough essential to ensure that no items are overlooked. The inspection process involves assessing the major systems and components that are vital to the building’s performance. These systems may include HVAC, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical.

Furthermore, they will also inspect the roof surfaces, drainage, penetrations, exterior elements, and fixtures. They will also look at the crawlspace, foundation, basement, wood decks, sidewalks, and interior space elements to make the inspection more thorough.

Additionally, it is also important to review essential records and documents, such as:

•         Property warranties (roof, mechanical, etc.)
•         Certificates of Occupancy
•         Utility bills
•         Building permits
•         Notices of code violations
•         Repair invoices
•         Maintenance records. 

Commercial property inspection helps buyers make informed property investments. If you are considering investing in a commercial property, don’t forget to invest in commercial inspection first.

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