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Purchasing Multifamily properties or any commercial real estate carries an inherent risk. One of these risks is the overall condition of the property and the structure and equipment on the property. To mitigate this risk, employing the services of a commercial building inspector becomes essential. Commercial Inspectors perform inspection services (much like residential inspection services) but on commercial properties. These include office buildings, warehouses, multifamily properties, and any other commercial property. What is the role and importance of commercial building inspection in Real Estate?
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Property Inspection
As a property buyer, an essential step is the building inspection. Whether you are looking to lease or purchase a commercial property, a commercial building inspection can highlight many unforeseen issues. Commercial properties are a substantial investment, making the need for a thorough Commercial Inspection indisputable. An independently licensed professional real estate inspector helps with your transaction and ensures you are well-informed about your investment.
When choosing a commercial inspector, an important question is whether they offer free thermal imaging or infrared scanning. Thermal imaging is a valuable tool in the inspection process. It helps identify roof leaks, missing insulation, HVAC system issues, plumbing leaks, and current water damage.
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Property Condition Assessments
The commercial building inspection is more inclusive role than a home inspection in real estate. It covers all major systems and features of the property that can be safely tested or inspected. Unlike home inspections, commercial property inspections are only limited by what is accessible and visible. Every commercial inspection includes a complete infrared thermal imaging of the interior and exterior walls, ceilings, and roof coverings.
The need for a commercial property inspection stems from the more significant risks associated with commercial properties. These risks include higher repair costs, liabilities, and a significant potential impact on your income source. A poorly maintained building can disrupt your new business, leading to a loss of sales. Unknown capital expenditures can arise after closing, causing stress and financial strain. An inspection provides the peace of mind from knowing your commercial building and its systems have been carefully evaluated. This inspection reduces the chances of unwelcome surprises as you try to establish your new business.
Types of buildings
Commercial inspections cover various property types, including multi-family housing, offices, warehouses and more. The inspections evaluate all aspects of the property, foundation to roof, and all the operational systems in the building.
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Commercial Building Inspection Reports
A comprehensive inspection also covers the property’s structural integrity, drainage, flooding risks, and the overall condition of the building’s exterior. A complete evaluation of the building’s electrical and plumbing systems, HVAC equipment, appliances, and over 200 other interior and exterior components is also performed.
Infrared scanning and thermal imaging are also crucial for identifying issues that might not be visible to the naked eye. Combined with a highly experienced commercial inspector, these high-tech tools create a win-win situation for the property buyer or investor.
Once the commercial inspection is completed, a detailed report outlining the property’s condition, any potential problems, recommended corrective actions, and an accurate estimate of needed repairs is provided. This property condition report serves as a critical tool in your decision-making process.
The commercial inspection process varies in duration, taking 3-5 hours to several days, depending on the size of the property and scope of the inspection.
It is highly recommended that you be there during the inspection because it offers a valuable learning experience and allows the inspector to ask questions directly.
Problems Uncovered
If problems are uncovered during the commercial real estate inspection, the inspection report will outline the needed repairs and expenses based on current city requirements.
This detailed report helps you make informed decisions, and you may even use it to negotiate with the seller to have repairs made before closing the deal, lower the price, or secure more favorable contract terms.
Depending on the type of project, the inspection report can include environmental studies or construction progress assessments in accordance with local building permit approvals.
These newer projects will adhere with international building code mandates at the various stages of the construction in conjunction with the building code inspectors.
Older buildings may have remedial work to be completed if there are critical issues with plumbing fixture issues, fire protection systems or other safety issues that need to be addressed by the building owner. All of this will be listed in the comprehensive report provided by the inspector.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a commercial property inspection conducted by a professional inspector is a crucial step for any property buyer. It equips you with information about the property. This enables you to make informed decisions, avoid unnecessary expenses, and ensure the safety and integrity of your investment. I think it’s a good idea to incorporate a professional inspection into your commercial real estate transaction process, ensuring the security of your investment and the smooth running of your business operations.
Always consult with a financial advisor, CPA, or CFP to make sure your financial plans align with your goals, risk tolerance and financial situation.
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