Introduction Bowstring trusses are a distinctive architectural element that can add elegance and character to a building’s design. This style of truss features a horizontal bottom with a swooping arched…
The difference between the inspection of steep-slope roofs and low-slope roofs is mainly one of complexity. Steep-Slope: Typical Construction Steep-slope construction is generally as follows, starting with the roof support…
Understanding the Scope of a Fire Sprinkler System Inspection The scope for inspecting fire sprinkler systems for commercial property inspectors is specific and minimal. The ComSOP inspection requirements include verifying…
Stairways and their related features, such as steps, handrails, and guards, must be adequately designed, installed, and maintained to prevent slip-and-fall accidents. Commercial property inspectors can provide building owners and…
The inspection of exterior doors falls under two different sections of the ComSOP: 6.5.2 Exterior and 6.5.11 Doors, Windows, and Interiors. When inspecting exterior doors, an inspector should look at:…
Fenestration refers to the arrangement of windows and doors on the exterior of a building, including any glass panel, window, door, curtain wall, or skylight unit. Fenestration can include any…
Concrete slab foundations, commonly called slabs, are the most common foundation system found in commercial buildings. Concrete is a mixture of Portland cement, sand, gravel, and water. When concrete is…
There are various types of parking areas at commercial properties, ranging from multi-story parking structures to gravel parking pads. Multi-story parking garages can be complex and contain systems beyond most…
Assessing electrical panels, or panelboards, is only one part of the electrical portion of a commercial property inspection. Inspectors must fully understand the International Standards of Practice for Inspecting Commercial…
Terms You Should Know: Working space: The front clearance, side clearance, and height clearance requirements for electrical equipment that provide a safe area for maintenance, inspections, and other work. Dedicated…
Electrical service refers to the conductors, materials, and equipment that transfer power from the utility system to the wiring system that supplies the subject property with electrical power. Commercial buildings…
Terms You Should Know Alternating current (AC): A current that periodically reverses direction and magnitude continuously. Direct current (DC): A current that does not reverse direction but maintains the same…