The commercial and residential property inspector will comply with the International Standards of Practice for Inspecting  Properties (ComSOP) — the industry-accepted commercial inspection guidelines and an established process and system. The inspector will look specifically for issues the buyer will want to know about before purchasing the property.”

As a baseline, the assessment will include a thorough visual inspection that is focused on the building’s critical systems and components, including the following:

• heating and ventilation systems;

• cooling systems;

• plumbing systems;

• mechanical and electrical systems;

• roof surface, drainage, and penetrations;

• exterior elements and fixtures;

• general topography of the building site;

• parking areas and sidewalks (to check for barriers to accessibility);

• wood decks and balconies;

• basement, foundation, and crawlspace;

• doors, windows, and interior;

• life safety components;

• kitchen area, including storage; and

• other site-specific areas of concern.

The commercial inspector may identify deficiencies related to:

• poor installation and workmanship;

• inadequate design for the intended use;

• deferred maintenance;

• environmental damage or risks; and

• systems near the end of their service life.

This information will help the new owner address the issues that impact the building from a physical standpoint and financial perspective, as well as the health and safety of the building’s occupants.