Prior to a purchase of a commercial building, a portfolio manager typically orders a professional inspection to evaluate the structure’s condition. The inspection report offers vital information which will assist the manager in making an informed decision. It will detail the building’s current condition and any repairs that may be needed. During the inspection, the inspector will look for any potential issues or defects that could affect the property’s value or safety.

What Is a Commercial Inspection?

A commercial inspection is a comprehensive assessment of a commercial building. The inspector will examine the building’s structure, mechanical systems, electrical systems, plumbing, and other components. The inspector will also check for any health and safety risks, such as mould, asbestos, or lead-based paint.

What Happens during a Commercial Inspection?

Here are the four main things an inspector will check in a commercial building:

  • Documentation

Commercial building inspectors take a careful look at all documents related to the building. This could include appraisals, building plans, citations, certificates of occupancy, construction permits, evacuation plans, environmental studies, fire safety system records, floor plans, maintenance records, and surveys. Inspectors use this information to determine the property’s value for potential buyers and to understand the associated costs of owning the building.

  • Five Major Systems

Commercial structures typically have five essential systems: electricity, mechanics, heating, plumbing, and air conditioning/ventilation. Assessors evaluate the systems to make sure they are performing optimally. If one or more of these systems require attention, the inspector will list the estimated expense for repairs or replacement in their report. Fire safety, alarm systems, and sprinkler systems are also examined.

  • Interior

The interior inspection part of the process is used to assess whether the interior spaces of the building meet the local building regulations. The inspector looks at the building’s walls, floors, bathrooms, offices, kitchen areas, and more. This examination reveals potential remodelling needs, particularly if something is not compliant with the code.

  • Exterior

A building’s exterior is more than just its exterior walls—it includes driveways, sidewalks, landscaping, and the roof. An inspector examines the building’s structural integrity and notes any required repairs. To get an accurate assessment, the inspector may call on specialized professionals such as roofers, builders, code inspectors, and other professionals to comprehensively examine the exterior.

The Inspector’s Findings

After the inspector has completed the inspection, they will provide a full report of their findings. This report should include any potential issues or improvements that need to be made. The inspector may also provide suggestions and advice for correcting any issues. The report should also include any safety concerns or potential risks to the occupants of the building.

The report should be reviewed by the owner or potential buyer of the building, and any necessary repairs or improvements should be taken care of as soon as possible. If the building is being sold, the report should be included in the sales agreement to ensure that the buyer is fully aware of any issues that may need to be addressed.

Conclusion

Inspecting a commercial building is an important process to ensure the safety of occupants and that the building meets all required regulations and standards. An inspector will check a variety of components of a commercial building, especially the structure. By thoroughly inspecting each of the components listed above, the inspector can ensure that the building meets all safety and regulatory requirements and is a safe environment for occupants.

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