A commercial inspection typically refers to the thorough evaluation of a commercial property, such as an office building, warehouse, retail space, or industrial facility, to assess its overall condition, safety, and compliance with regulations. It is commonly performed before purchasing, leasing, or renewing a commercial lease. Here are some key details of a typical commercial inspection:

1. Exterior Inspection

Building Structure: Inspect the overall condition of the building's exterior, including the roof, foundation, walls, windows, and doors.
Roofing: Check for any signs of damage or leaks, including the condition of the materials (shingles, metal, or flat roof membranes).
Parking Lot and Grounds: Inspect the parking lot for cracks, potholes, and proper drainage. Check landscaping, sidewalks, and any other exterior features.

2. Interior Inspection

Walls, Ceilings, and Floors: Assess the condition of the interior finishes and structural integrity. Look for cracks, water stains, mold, and other signs of damage or wear.
HVAC Systems: Evaluate the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems to ensure they are functioning properly and meet safety codes.
Electrical Systems: Inspect the electrical panel, wiring, and outlets for safety and code compliance. Identify any potential hazards.
Plumbing: Check plumbing systems, including pipes, water pressure, and drainage, for leaks or malfunctions.
Elevators and Escalators: If applicable, inspect elevators or escalators for safety, code compliance, and functionality.

3. Safety and Compliance Checks

Fire Safety: Ensure that fire alarms, sprinklers, extinguishers, and exit routes are in place and functioning. Verify compliance with local fire codes.
ADA Compliance: Check for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring the property is accessible to individuals with disabilities (e.g., ramps, wide doors, accessible restrooms).
Environmental Concerns: Look for any signs of hazardous materials, such as asbestos, lead paint, or mold.

4. Mechanical and Operational Systems

Elevators: Inspect if any are in place and working properly.
Energy Efficiency: Review energy usage, insulation, lighting, and heating/cooling systems to gauge efficiency and suggest improvements.

5. Building Code Compliance

Local Codes: Ensure the building complies with local zoning laws, building codes, and other applicable regulations. This may include fire codes, plumbing, and electrical codes.
Renovations: Evaluate any prior renovations or alterations to determine whether they were performed legally and safely.

6. Tenant-Specific Checks (for leased properties)

Lease Terms Review: For commercial leases, an inspection may include reviewing whether tenants are maintaining the premises per the lease agreement and ensuring that tenant improvements are within agreed-upon guidelines.
Use of Space: Evaluate whether tenants are utilizing the space appropriately as per zoning laws or lease terms.

7. Reporting

After the inspection, the inspector will provide a detailed report, highlighting the condition of the building and its systems, including any immediate concerns, needed repairs, or recommendations for upgrades.

8. Specialized Inspections

Depending on the type of commercial property and its location, specialized inspections may also be required, such as:

Environmental Site Assessment (ESA): For potential environmental hazards like soil contamination.
Structural Inspection: In cases of older buildings or when significant foundation concerns are present.
Pest Inspection: For properties that might have pest or rodent issues.

Commercial inspections are essential for identifying potential risks, ensuring compliance with legal and safety standards, and making informed decisions when buying, leasing, or maintaining a property.