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What Are the Common Issues Found During Commercial Building Inspection

You are about to buy a commercial property. It’s got everything you want. An ideal location, a perfect price, and a flawless interior and exterior. It’s a dream deal, and you are about to seal it, but someone advises you to go for a commercial building inspection before you finalize it.

You go for it anyway; you know the inspection report would come out fine. But, to your utter dismay, the inspection reports many unknown and hidden issues. You are disappointed, but also thank your stars for opting for a timely building inspection.

This situation is all too common.

Every commercial property owner must realize the importance of commercial building inspection. It protects them from hidden costs and safety hazards and keeps them away from legal troubles.

In this blog, we highlight the common issues that a building inspection uncovers and why you should never skip it when buying a commercial property.

Why A Commercial Building Inspection Matters

Commercial building inspections are not mere formalities; they exist for several valid and solid reasons. By thoroughly examining its underlying components, the inspection gives you comprehensive details about your property.

It’s like getting a second-hand car checked by a car mechanic before you buy it. You’d think twice before buying a car with oil leakage or a faulty brake. The same think-before-you-buy principle works for commercial buildings.

A commercial inspection performed by InterNACHI-certified inspectors includes a thorough assessment of every part of the structure from foundation to roof, including all internal operating systems. The inspection enables stakeholders to make well-informed decisions about buying, negotiating prices, and repair and maintenance issues.

Main Issues Found During Commercial Building Inspections

Let’s talk about some main issues that surface during commercial building inspections:

Roofing Problems

Roof damage ranks as the most common and costliest issue inspectors commonly detect. This includes:

Leaks and water damage.
Poor drainage.
Absent flashing or deteriorating roofing elements.

Based on their materials, roofs need to be replaced in 20–70 years. They deteriorate faster when building owners fail to maintain them adequately.

HVAC System Failures

Every business depends on operational heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. During commercial building inspections, the following issues are found with the HVAC system.

Outdated or inefficient system.
Poorly maintained.
Not up to current codes.

Any HVAC system operating below efficiency will increase utility bills and unfavorable temperatures inside buildings.

Electrical Hazards

Electrical problems generate safety issues and fire hazards. Inspectors often find the following:

Overloaded circuits.
Exposed wiring.
Non-compliant installations.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, there are more than 33,470 commercial building fires every year. These failures cannot be brushed under the carpet; they must be addressed proactively.

Plumbing And Water Issues

When plumbing systems are old and damaged, they produce the following problems:

Leaks or burst pipes.
Poor water pressure.
Mold growth from moisture.

Water-related damage becomes apparent only after it has exacerbated and caused structural problems. So, always be wary of them.

Foundation And Structural Concerns

Building foundation cracks, uneven flooring, and any signs of settling must serve as major warning signs. These can indicate:

Soil erosion.
Poor construction.
Water intrusion.

When your foundation becomes compromised, it will result in increased repair costs that can go up to tens of thousands of dollars.

Code Violations And ADA Compliance

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), along with all local building codes, are mandatory requirements for commercial facilities. Commercial building inspections reveal a number of problems that include:

Inadequate accessibility.
Improper emergency fire exits.
Missing safety signage.

Failure to address these issues may lead to penalties and even legal consequences for the property owner.

How To Prepare For A Commercial Building Inspection

The benefits of taking proactive action create substantial positive results. Here’s what you can do:

Select an inspector who holds certification for commercial property assessment and has experience in the field.
Regular review of maintenance records enables the identification of common problems across the facility.
Give the inspector complete and unhindered site access so they can thoroughly check every section.
Every commercial building must include budgeted funds for unexpected repairs, irrespective of the building’s age.

What Happens After The Inspection

You will get a complete report once the examination of the commercial building is complete. This includes:

Photos and descriptions of each issue.
Recommendations for repairs or further evaluations.
Estimated prices for the required solutions.

The reported information guides both parties involved in negotiations. Landlords use it for planning and development, and tenants use it to guarantee their safety and operational requirements.

Final Thoughts

Commercial building inspections are more than problem detection services because they help make rational spending decisions. Essential problems, such as roofing leaks, old heating systems, and structural flaws, can typically be fixed. Inspections bring to light existing issues that we might not have known otherwise.

Inspection provides accurate information about what you get when you buy or lease a property beyond superficial presentation. It protects your investment and ensures you get the mental peace you deserve.

Choose GreenWorks Inspections and Engineering for commercial building inspections because taking risks is not an option. You get your investment’s safety and avoid expensive, unexpected problems when you choose Greenworks. Our certified inspectors deliver service with experience-based precision and thorough examination for complete peace of mind.