Building inspectors serve an essential function in assuring that buildings we inhabit are safe. Additionally, they help ensure construction complies with all relevant codes, ordinances and zoning regulations.
Considering renovating or remodelling? Before scheduling any major improvements or upgrades, it’s a good idea to schedule a pre-purchase inspection. There are different kinds of inspections, such as:
Exterior
An exterior inspection involves taking an overall look at a property’s entirety – this includes parking lots, roofing and landscaping features such as gardens. An external inspection may detect issues like cracked walls, dampness and mold; as well as whether its structure remains secure.Pre Purchase Building Inspections
Commercial buildings can be more complicated than their residential counterparts, so commercial building inspections require greater detail. Inspectors review documents like planning applications, construction documents, environmental studies and fire safety certificates during this process as well as interior factors like walls, windows and kitchen facilities as well as if emergency exits can easily open in case of disaster or other hazards. Furthermore, they evaluate whether ground drains properly to prevent flooding or standing water accumulations.
Interior
Building inspections include both exterior and interior elements; with inspectors considering comfort and safety needs of their occupants as they assess walls, bathrooms, kitchen spaces and more.
Inspectors will also look for any signs of wear or tear within the interior space, such as cracks in plasterwork or carpet stains that indicate potential issues.
Certificate of occupancy inspections are an integral component of any building project, serving as official proof that your structure is ready for residents to move in and often required by municipalities or states. They check whether construction conforms with approved plans and meets code standards.
Electrical
Electrical systems can be dangerous components of both homes and commercial buildings. Any problems with wiring can cause fires, property damage and even death – thus it is crucial that professional electricians conduct an inspection regularly and thoroughly.
Electrical inspectors conduct a full examination of all outlets and receptacles to make sure they’re safely grounded using appropriate gauge wire, safe for their intended purpose, and meet applicable code regulations. They’ll also ensure there are enough circuits installed for the space’s needs – including dedicated ones for appliances such as garbage disposals or dishwashers – before making recommendations on possible fixes or adjustments.
These inspections are usually required during new construction or renovation projects; however, existing building inspections can also benefit from them to ensure all work meets safety requirements established by your local building code.
Plumbing
Professional plumbing inspections are conducted by licensed plumbers and focus on verifying whether water filtration systems, supply lines, drains and kitchen sinks and fixtures meet current building codes. A pressure test should also be run to make sure the plumbing system’s water pipes are tightened down tight; and any visible plumbing system components checked to make sure there are no leaks or major clogs present.
Inspectors conduct interior piping inspections to identify any potential future problems with interior pipes, such as those installed prior to 1980. Older homes or buildings constructed before this decade often contain corroding copper, steel or lead pipes which pose a health threat if left unchecked. A plumber inspects all water and gas shutoff valves within the plumbing system as well as all their locations.
Structural
An engineering inspection of a structure involves conducting a visual evaluation that inspects weight-bearing and seismic components like foundation, walls, framing and beams to evaluate their condition and ensure they remain functional.
Inspectors will use special inspection techniques to detect wood rot, insect activity and any other signs of damage and deterioration in structures. They also evaluate framing and other structural components’ condition, age and current performance levels.
An inspection can benefit homeowners, builders and buyers in numerous ways. Homebuyers can gain a better idea of a property’s value while being assured that any major issues are taken care of before purchase. On the homeowner side of things, structural inspections help preserve building integrity while protecting residents from safety hazards or future costly repairs and maintenance issues.