Most of the time, you take risks and make bad investments just because you need to do proper due diligence. Whether you’re buying a commercial property for yourself or are representing your client as a broker, you must understand the consequences of not getting an inspection. It’s not a choice to be left to chance. It’s a crucial part of your due diligence that can ensure you don’t overlook any important aspects of the property. With a commercial inspection in place, you can make a more informed decision about whether investing in the property is worth it.
When getting a commercial inspection, there’s a lot to consider. You need to ensure that the inspection process is thorough to assure you that you didn’t take the wrong step in getting a loan. For this, a commercial inspection checklist is very helpful. In this blog, we will put down a commercial inspection checklist for you so that you know what are the most important areas that must be assessed.
Roofs
Roofs are one of the most important parts of commercial property inspection. If they are neglected, they might result in safety hazards. For example, if roof leaks are not identified, they might result in structural damage, mold growth, electrical issues, etc. So, the first thing a commercial inspector must evaluate is a roof. Remember, the roof inspection process might differ depending on the roofing materials.
Roofing Elements
Ensuring the roof’s integrity is not all. The inspector also needs to ensure the condition of the roofing elements. These include flashing, projections, gutters, etc. Inspecting the roofing materials is another essential step, as they play a significant role in maintaining the roof’s overall quality. For example, a roof with damaged roofing elements could be a significant concern during inspection. This is even true when the roof’s integrity is itself strong.
Exterior Wall Material
Many property buyers and brokers need to pay more attention to the importance of commercial building exterior wall inspections. Over time, exterior walls get damaged from different elements and weather conditions. It’s common for snow, hail, sunlight, and ice to cause issues with siding and masonry. When inspecting the exterior walls, these are the issues that the inspectors often find:
- Blistering
- Peeling
- Cracking
The inspectors also look for the signs of termite infestations. If they forget to do so, it’s better to remind them, as once termite infestations evolve, they might lead to a more significant issue.
Exterior Finishes
It is most important to access exterior finishes as “first impressions last.” These finishes could be exposed to wear and tear. In fact, condensation and vapor issues might also arise in the property’s exterior. During the inspection, an inspector evaluates that the property’s exterior is painted and the paint is free of peeling and cracking. The inspector also inspects decorative elements. Different buildings have different sorts of decorations. But mostly, these are made of iron, stone, or wood, and it is crucial to assess all of these because if they’re left unchecked, they will deteriorate. Besides this, these elements are also vulnerable to moisture. So, when the exterior elements face humidity or rain, then, the iron might rust, and the wood might rot. Eventually, this will lead to potential damage.
Mechanical and Electrical Elements
It is important that the commercial property inspection includes an electrical and mechanical system inspection. When assessing the electrical system, an inspector inspects the following:
- Electrical panels and breakers
- Wiring
- GFCIs
- Outlets and Switches
Furthermore, the inspector looks for signs of damage or deterioration when assessing the mechanical systems. When the inspector inspects mechanical systems, they also check the plumbing system’s condition. They will also inspect the water and waste pipes for leaks or rust.
Grounds
One of the biggest concerns regarding commercial building grounds is their ability to drain properly. Whatever commercial property you’re buying must have a good draining system on its grounds. Otherwise, water accumulation will lead to exterior damage. Remember, the inspection process is not just for buying property. You must conduct regular inspections even after buying the property, especially after heavy rainfall. This will help determine the ground’s ability to drain.
Standing water is a potential issue that you must assess immediately. If you’re buying a property that shows signs of such damage, do not proceed with the transaction. It is better not to proceed than to have headaches later.
When evaluating the ground, inspectors also inspect elements like trees and bushes for diseases or dead segments. Often, the presence of plants or trees can damage the building’s exterior. So, it is better to get everything sorted before moving forward with the deal.
Interior Inspection
Finally, once everything is done from the outside, the inspector assesses the property’s interior. They tend to identify structural issues within the property’s interior. The first factor they will determine is the property’s foundation. It is subjected to numerous stressors that might cause them to expand and crack. Thus, the inspector needs to inspect the foundation first.
After that, the inspector thoroughly examines the floors, walls, and ceilings. They will check the integrity of the beams and joists. So, make sure to hire a qualified commercial building inspector so that they inspect every nook and cranny of the property, saving you from experiencing property damage.
Conclusion
A commercial property inspection checklist plays a vital role in ensuring a property’s functionality, safety, and compliance. It serves as a comprehensive guide, helping the inspector to systematically evaluate the building’s important components. This involves the property’s structural integrity, major systems, and other safety measures. With a checklist in hand, it becomes easier for the inspector to identify potential issues early on, preventing costly repairs in the long run. Additionally, a thorough inspection safeguards the health and safety of occupants. It will also minimize the risk of accidents and enhance the property’s overall value and longevity.
Ensure the safety and longevity of your business investment with TexInspec’s expert commercial property inspections. Our thorough evaluations cover everything from structural integrity to electrical systems, providing you with a detailed report and peace of mind. Trust TexInspec to protect your commercial property and help you make informed decisions. Schedule your inspection today!