If you’re looking to purchase a commercial property, you will want to have an inspection to determine the condition of the property and the cost of any repairs. An inspection is crucial to help you make a good investment decision.

There are a number of aspects involved in a commercial property inspection, here are some of the items on the checklist:

Outside of the Property

The exterior of the property in the inspection could include parking, landscaping, roof and the structure of the building. The inspector has to see if the structure is sound and may have to hire other experts such as construction contractors to help with determining any repairs.

Inside of the Property

The interior inspection includes walls, floors, offices, kitchen facilities, bathrooms, and any other interior elements in the building. The interiors must meet building code and the inspector needs to figure out if there are any safety concerns.

Building Systems

The inspection includes all building systems such as mechanical, heating, electrical, plumbing, air conditioning and ventilation systems. It’s important for an inspector to check these thoroughly as a building system that is not in good condition could mean a costly repair for the investor. Also included are fire safety systems such as building alarms, sprinkler systems and security systems to ensure that they are in working order.

Review of Documents

Commercial property inspectors need to also review a number of documents including appraisals, building plans, construction permits, surveys, certificates of occupancy, evacuation plans, maintenance records, floor plans and environmental studies.  The review also includes fire detection maintenance and test documents, inspection reports, fire door inspection and fire extinguisher service documents. For a multi-residential property, they also need to look at rent records and previous inspection reports.

Given the fact that a commercial property inspection is extremely thorough, an investor cannot afford not to have an inspection.

Property Support Services can assist with all due diligence related matters and has access to resources to complete property inspections and other disciplines related to it.