Commercial property inspections are highly beneficial, but here are some questions you should ask your commercial building inspectors before proceeding with the process.
When can you perform the inspection?
Be very specific about this one, as you need to know the exact date and time of the inspection in order to get yourself organized. The date needs to suit you, there has to be sufficient time to consider the findings in the report and to arrange further inspections if needed, such as mold inspection.
How long will the inspection take?
Once you know the date and time, it is extremely important to know the duration of the inspection. If an inspector is unable to roughly specify the time needed for an inspection, it might be better to look someplace else.
Are your commercial building inspectors licensed?
It is always better to play it safe on this one. You wouldn’t want an unlicensed inspector carrying out a detailed inspection of your commercial property. You shouldn’t risk it with inspectors who have received their training from the employer, but otherwise have no professional background in construction and building.
How long have you been in the business?
And we don’t mean the company, but the potential inspector. You need to be certain about the person performing the inspection, and five years’ experience is somewhat of a minimum. Note that building experience doesn’t count, as inspection requires an entirely different skillset.
Could I see a sample report?
Ask for one to be sent to your email address. A sample report provides a good insight into the scope of the inspection. Also, it shows how professional the potential commercial building inspectors are. There should be a summary, recommendations, and details on the defects, their locations, as well as a proposed course of action.
What equipment do you use?
There is some equipment considered basic for any commercial building inspector. A moisture kit is something every professional should possess. Other specialized equipment is desirable, but not essential. However, it is always better for your inspector to have more equipment than necessary than to lack the equipment needed.
When will the report be finished?
It has become sort of a trend for inspection reports to be emailed to clients within 24 hours of the inspection. If you’re on a tight schedule, ask if the inspector will be able to finish the report in a specified amount of time.
How much does it cost?
Do not inquire just about the costs. Yes, it is one of the most important questions to ask, as you can’t break the bank, but also ask about the payment methods. Ask if there is a preferred method or, if you want to pay in a certain way, ask if the company can oblige.
The leading commercial building inspectors
Your commercial property has to be inspected, and the process needs to be as effective and organized as possible. The Inspectors Company has the best InterNACHI certified inspectors, so there is absolutely no need to worry. We have the answers to your questions.