Inspecting Commercial Properties

By Roger Frost


The PCA ASTM E2018 is the professional commercial property inspectors guide used as a baseline for all commercial and industrial inspections. This guide also recognizes that there are varying levels of property condition assessment and due diligence that can be exercised that are both more and less comprehensive than this guide, and that may be appropriate to meet the objectives of the user.

Determining what and how intensive an inspection should be is the first step in a commercial or industrial inspection. There is a point where the time and effort involved in obtaining information is not financially feasible. This is where experience is paramount in knowing what the inspection requirements are to be.

Thermal imaging is a necessity when inspecting any commercial or industrial property. The cost or repairing or replacing roofs is an enormous cost which potential buyers want to be apprised of. Thermal imaging can find hidden leaks and air pockets which will indicate the need for samples to be taken and a more in depth review of roofing materials.

I:16:T If an existing building is going to be used for another use then there is usually some associated costs incurred in the Change of Use. Knowing the Ontario Building Code can help prepare your client for the future cost and work required. Although the city or municipality will require plans and drawings prior to issuing an occupancy permit, it is wise to educate the buyer to the potential changes that may be required.

Part of the Commercial and Industrial inspection is the Life Safety Equipment testing and inspection. Lack or failure of equipment will delay city or municipality in issuing an occupancy permit which could create a financial cost in the delay of operations. The requirements of this equipment are fully detailed in the Ontario Building Code and Ontario Fire Code.

Inspecting Fire Doors, Fire Separations, Fire Alarm system and components, smoke and heat detectors, door closures and required exits is very important and any deficiencies may prevent you from occupying the building. Repairs to these systems can be very expensive and testing and assessing them is an integral part of the Commercial and Industrial inspection.




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