What is a Commercial Property Inspection?

A commercial property inspection inspects the buildings and structures located on a parcel of commercial real estate. This land may have buildings with residential rental units, mixed-use buildings, strip malls, motels, hotels, schools, houses of worship, factories, storage facilities, restaurants, and office buildings. The inspection of these buildings will comprise of collecting information about the property through a visual walk-through on-site, conducting research about the property and then generating a comprehensive report about the condition of the property based on all observations made and research conducted.

Commercial property inspections follow the CCPIA (Certified Commercial Property Inspectors Association) standards of practice referred to as, ComSOP. A review of these standards are available at www.ccpia.org. Commercial inspections are a visual assessment of the condition of the property at the time of the inspection. Reports will be detailed with numerous photos and descriptions.

The objective of a commercial property inspection is to provide a report to the client that describes the issues discovered from observations made, research conducted by the inspector and that, in the inspector’s opinion, are likely to be of interest to their client. The goal is to enhance the client’s information and knowledge of the property to improve decision making for buying, selling, maintaining, or improving the property.

It’s important to remember that commercial inspections are not an architectural or engineering inspection but an overall general visual observation of the property and the issues discovered. The inspection is not meant to imply a warranty, guarantee, or insurance policy.

Prior to the inspection the inspector will review all documents provided by the client.  Some of these can include building plans, floor plans, appraisals, emergency evacuation plans, environmental studies, fire detection test and maintenance records, permits filed, repair receipts, certificates of occupancy, building code violations notices, and warranties for equipment. The inspector will conduct a pre-inspection interview and questionnaire with the client regarding the property to gather knowledge about the property, so the inspection and report are as accurate as possible.

Who Should Get a Commercial Property Inspection?

A commercial property inspection is a crucial step for anyone involved in purchasing, leasing, or managing commercial real estate. Whether you’re an investor, business owner, or property manager, an inspection provides valuable insights into the condition of the property, helping you make an informed decision.

• Real Estate Investors & Buyers – Before finalizing a purchase, investors and buyers should obtain a thorough inspection to assess the structural integrity, mechanical systems, and overall safety of the building. Uncovering potential issues early can prevent unexpected repair costs and ensure the property meets investment expectations.

• Business Owners – Leasing or buying a property for business use? A commercial inspection helps identify safety concerns, compliance issues, and potential maintenance costs that could impact operations.

• Lenders & Financial Institutions – Banks and lenders often require property inspections before approving financing for commercial real estate transactions. A detailed report provides assurance that the property is a sound investment.

• Property Managers & Landlords – Ongoing maintenance is essential for long-term property value. Routine inspections help landlords and property managers identify necessary repairs before they become major expenses, ensuring the property remains safe and functional for tenants.

• Developers – Before starting renovations or redevelopment projects, an inspection provides a clear understanding of the building’s current state, helping to anticipate challenges and avoid costly surprises.

Commercial Property Inspection Walk-through

A commercial property inspection walk-through is a thorough, on-site evaluation of all buildings and structures included in the inspection scope. The inspector systematically examines the property, assessing key components such as structural integrity, mechanical systems, electrical infrastructure, plumbing, roofing, and overall safety conditions. It is the client’s responsibility to ensure that the inspector has full access to all buildings, units, and areas intended for review. Any spaces that are locked, restricted, or otherwise inaccessible at the time of inspection will be excluded from the final report.

For safety reasons, the inspector will use their professional judgment to determine whether it is safe to enter certain areas, such as hazardous zones or structurally unsound spaces. The walk-through process is non-invasive, meaning that no destructive testing or dismantling of systems will occur. Once the inspection is complete, the inspector compiles a detailed report, outlining observations, potential concerns, and recommendations. This report is then provided to the client within the agreed-upon timeframe, equipping them with the necessary information to make informed decisions about the property.

Why Have a Commercial Property Inspection Done?

While a commercial property inspection covers all major aspects of a building, certain components—such as the parking lot, roof, and HVAC system—often carry the highest financial impact for businesses. These elements are costly to repair or replace, making their condition a top priority during the inspection. Identifying potential issues in these critical areas early can help prevent unexpected expenses and allow for better financial planning before finalizing a deal.

Ultimately, a commercial property inspection is an essential safeguard against unforeseen repair costs, compliance issues, and operational disruptions. It provides a clear picture of a property's condition, empowering investors, business owners, and property managers to make informed decisions. By hiring Remedy Inspections, LLC, you protect your investment, avoid costly surprises, and ensure the property meets your business needs both now and in the future.

We’ll work closely with you ensuring peace of mind during the inspection process.