Real Estate Marketing & Beyond
Why do you think buyers are willing to spend money hiring a professional building inspector on top of the millions they will soon be shelling out to purchase a property? It’s because a building inspector is able to provide them with pieces of important information that could save them from making a very expensive mistake. You see, the job of your building inspector is to provide you with an unbiased report detailing any existing problem in the property you are about to purchase. They will also inform you of potential issues that could take place along the way. This information is relevant to make you aware of the current condition of the property. As a buyer you need all the facts you can get so you will know what you are getting yourself into.
The process of obtaining a report is simple. Your first step is of course to find a reputable building inspector, someone who is qualified so you know you’ll be getting the best value for your money. Look for a building inspector who can provide a thorough, accurate and complete building inspection report. Aside from their skills and knowledge, they should also be professional, accommodating, punctual and friendly.
So what do building inspectors look out for? During an inspection they will be taking note of the following:
1. Inspecting the exterior of the building - an exterior inspection encompasses the building’s surface, the grounds that encamp the building as well as equipment components. Your building inspector will make sure that the exterior walls of the property do not have damages or cracks, the windows should have no signs of breakage, the security systems and the lighting are fully functional, the handrails, landings and stairs are in good condition and the paved surfaces do not need repairs. If there are any problems with any of these, you can be certain that your building inspector will take note of it and it will reflect on the report they will provide you with after inspection.
2. Inspecting the interior of the building – an interior inspection encompasses checking whether or not the outlets and electrical wirings are functional, ensuring that all electrical panels are secure, checking to see if the circuit breakers are functioning as it should while making sure that all circuits are well protected. OSHA’s standards require LOTO procedures to be followed with a compliant breaker lockout. Your building inspector will also check to see if lock-out procedures have been established and followed, heating systems are given its due maintenance, air filters are regularly changed and the ductwork, vents and register are routinely changed. They will also inspect the furnace and boiler rooms if these are locked, system controls and thermostats are functioning properly, fir protection systems are in place and the cooling equipment are free of leaks. Smoke and fire alarms should also be in place and functional.
3. Roof inspection – the commercial roofing system is an important part of any building or home because not only does it protect the equipment inside the building it also protect its occupants. When a roof is leaky it will not take long before it will cause a huge damage. When your commercial roofing has cracks it will allow snow, rainwater or ice melt to seep inside your building. Your building inspector will check whether the roof of the property is strong and solid and it should be stable enough to allow HVAC to be installed as well as other ventilation equipment.
4. Plumbing inspection – another important inspection that needs to be carried out meticulously is plumbing. This type of inspection is different from an interior inspection. This is very crucial since it can have a direct impact on your safety as well as your health. Your building inspector will make sure that all drain systems are functional and that they are not blocked or clogged, all faucets and toilets are functioning properly, the water pressure is in good condition and water heaters are have been maintained. If the inspector found out that the septic system is clogged, emergency septic system services will be ordered.
A building inspector will be able to report all his or her findings to you as soon as they are done collecting the data. The information you will get will help you decide whether or not you should push through with the purchase. This is beneficial only with pre-purchase building inspection. Therefore, if you want to make sure that the investment is worth it, don’t skip on hiring a professional and qualified building inspector.
