As part of purchasing or leasing a commercial property, it’s wise to have a detailed inspection. It will guarantee that you’re making a wise choice. The inspection is usually comprehensive and goes beyond checking its physical attributes. This is where a commercial property inspection checklist comes in handy. In this guide, we’ll look at what a commercial property inspection checklist includes, why it’s important, and how it can help you avoid costly surprises.
What Is Commercial Property Inspection?
A thorough evaluation of a building’s state is referred to as a commercial property inspection. This inspection, regardless of whether you’re buying or leasing the property, gives you confidence that everything is working properly and will help you spot issues that could cost you repairs down the road.
Inspectors use a commercial property inspection checklist to assess various parts of the building, from the roof to the foundation and everything in between.
What Do Commercial Building Inspectors Do Exactly?
Commercial building inspectors know how to assess the condition of a building. These certified inspectors examine the structure systems and components of the building to ensure that everything that is supposed to be there is up to code and serves the intended purpose. Here are some of the key tasks that commercial building inspectors handle:
- Structural Inspections: Problems with the framework, walls, and building foundation. That means identifying cracks, leaks, or any signs of shifting that can lead to even bigger problems.
- System Evaluations: The inspectors assess the building’s HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems, plumbing, and electrical systems so that they all operate safely and efficiently.
- Safety And Compliance: Inspectors check that the property meets local building codes and safety rules. These include taking into consideration fire safety measures, provisions regarding disabled individuals, emergency exits, and so on.
- Exterior And Roof Checks: The inspector will examine the roof, windows, doors, and exterior walls. It helps keep the elements out of the building and saves you the trouble (and expense) of future leaks or structural issues.
The Importance Of A Commercial Property Inspection Checklist
A commercial property inspection checklist is vital for several reasons. It does not hurt that the inspection process is comprehensive, for starters. In that way, nothing is overlooked because there is a list of all the key elements to check out.
Here are some key reasons why using a commercial property inspection checklist is so important:
- Peace Of Mind: A thorough checklist will ensure you don’t miss any part of the property while inspecting it.
- Identifies Hidden Issues: The checklist may identify underlying matters that are hardly noticeable at first glance. Something might look fine on the surface, but there may be underlying issues.
- Saves You Money: That’s because you find problems early in the process so you can address them before they become expensive repairs.
- Helps With Negotiations: The good thing about a commercial property inspection is that if it reveals issues, you can negotiate with the seller or landlord to either pay for the repairs or reduce the property’s price.
What Should Be Included In A Commercial Property Inspection Checklist?
A commercial property inspection checklist is a detailed document that covers multiple aspects of the property. Here’s a breakdown of the key areas typically covered:
Exterior Inspection
It includes the following:
- Foundation: Checking for any cracks or any signs of settling or shifting.
- Roof: Checking for damaged, missing, or loose shingles, leaks, or sagging areas.
- Walls And Siding: Checking for cracks, water damage, or mold.
- Windows And Doors: Ensure seals, locks, or weatherproofing isn’t a problem.
Interior Inspection
Commercial inspectors look for the following things during interior inspection.
- Floors: The floors should be even and show no signs of leakage or moisture.
- Walls And Ceilings: Cracks, water stains, mold, or structural issues are inspected.
- Plumbing: Leakage, clogged drains, and water pressure problems were also checked out.
- Electrical Systems: The wiring is up to code, and there are no exposed wires or old wiring systems.
Building Systems
A commercial building includes many complex, integrated systems that are thoroughly examined. The important ones are:
- HVAC System: The heating and cooling units, air vents, and air filtration systems work well.
- Elevators And Escalators: Checking their functionality and adherence to safety standards.
- Fire Safety: To combat any fire emergency, fire alarms, extinguishers, and sprinklers should be in place and in proper working condition.
Safety And Compliance
It is important for commercial buildings to conform to safety protocols. Some of them are as follows.
- Building Codes: Ensuring the property meets all local building codes and zoning laws.
- Accessibility: Check that the property is in ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance, meaning it has ADA-compliant entrances and restrooms.
- Security: Checking overall safety, inspecting locks, surveillance cameras, and alarm systems.
Landscaping And Surrounding Area
This generally includes checking out the following areas.
- Parking Lot And Pavement: Looking for cracks, potholes, or uneven surfaces.
- Landscaping: This involves determining the condition of the lawn, trees, and plants. Pest problems can develop from overgrown plants or poorly maintained areas, so they are also checked.
- Drainage: Making sure the water drains off the property, away from the house, so it can’t flood and won’t undermine the foundation.
When Should You Use A Commercial Property Inspection Checklist?
A commercial property inspection checklist should be used whenever you buy or lease a commercial property. This inspection is to help you if you want to avoid costly surprises later. If you are leasing the property, it can also allow you to sleep easily, knowing the space is safe, functional, and up to code before you commit to any contracts.
Conclusion
A commercial property inspection checklist is valuable for anyone looking to buy or lease a commercial property. It requires considering every inch of the building, from the foundation to the roof, so you can make informed decisions.
If problems are identified sooner rather than later, you can avoid becoming vulnerable to costly repairs, pay more than you should, and protect your investment.
So, if you are looking to purchase or lease a commercial property and want a dependable inspection, Orange and South Coast Property Services can help. When you schedule your free assessment, our team of professional inspectors will evaluate your property in full and address any issues. We don’t want you to overlook something important, so contact us today for your commercial property inspection.