Are you thinking of buying or leasing a commercial property? Whether you are an end-user of the property or planning on leasing it out, it is crucial you understand what condition the property is in. Therefore, it’s vital to ensure the space is thoroughly vetted and cleared for business before you sign on the dotted line. Here’s why:
Commercial properties are not like residential properties. Their structural and mechanical components are more complex and more costly to replace or repair. At the end of the day, it's an investment, and you want to make sure your investment will pay off in the long run. But you also want to ensure that you have the means to pay for any anticipated repairs or replacements, such as a flat roof, sprinklers, or an expensive HVAC system. If you are looking at the property to lease, you want to understand the systems in the space if they will support your needs, and if they meet code requirements. Is the HVAC the proper capacity? Is the electrical load adequate? Does the plumbing need to be moved or adjusted? This is where a commercial property inspection comes in. It is an essential part of the due diligence process for anyone considering investing or leasing a commercial property. The commercial inspector will take a close look at the condition of the building and identify any potential problems. This information can be used to make informed decisions about whether or not to proceed with the purchase or lease of the property. In addition, commercial inspections can help to ensure that necessary repairs are made before you move in. By taking this important step, you can avoid costly surprises down the road and ensure your new business gets off to a smooth start.
What’s included in a commercial inspection?
A commercial inspection is a thorough on-site visual examination of the property’s physical condition. Depending on the scope, the inspector may engage a team of specialty consultants. The assessment is focused on the building’s critical systems and components, including the following:
Heating and ventilation systems
Cooling system
Plumbing system
Mechanical and electrical systems
Roof surface, drainage, and penetrations
Exterior elements and fixtures
General topography of the building site
Parking areas and sidewalks (for accessibility)
Wood decks and balconies
Basement, foundation, and crawl space
Doors, windows, and interior
Kitchen (including storage)
Other areas specific to the property
Document procurement and review
The inspector requests and reviews documents and records about the property (ie. lease agreements, Certificates of Occupancy, repair invoices, and maintenance records). The inspector will also interview the person(s) with the most knowledge about the condition of the building.
The inspection report
The report contains concise details from the walk-through survey, documents procured, the results of interviews, and any other third-party reports ordered as part of the inspection. The report will provide an inventory of the building’s major systems and components and an evaluation of their functional and physical condition. This will highlight the property’s strengths, and potential deficiencies, along with deferred maintenance issues.
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