Fire alarm systems are designed to protect people and their property from fire and smoke, but they cannot be relied upon unless they are routinely inspected by professionals. Regular inspection and maintenance also reduce expenses by preventing unbudgeted emergency repairs and costly false alarms. Fire Alarm System Damage Fire alarm systems can be damaged in the…
EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a synthetic rubber membrane with elastic properties commonly used to cover low-slope roofs on both residential homes and commercial structures. Its manufacture includes the use of cross-linked polymers to improve elasticity, strength, and durability.Polymers are custom-designed molecules. Cross-linked molecules are those that bond at the atomic level, which greatly increases…
Dust is a general name for solid, airborne particles. While most types of dust are relatively harmless, they can sometimes cause sickness or even fuel a fire. Large dust particles are typically swallowed or coughed up before they reach the lungs, but they can irritate the nose and the tubes that lead to the lungs, potentially causing…
Dry cleaning is a method by which clothes and fabrics are cleaned with liquid solvent rather than water. Although this method offers certain advantages over standard “wet” cleaning, commercial dry cleaning shops require chemicals and equipment that present unique safety challenges to commercial property inspectors, as well as the employees, customers and nearby residents of…
A deep fryer, also known as a deep-fat fryer (or frier), is a kitchen appliance used for deep frying. While commonly used in commercial kitchens, smaller household models are now available. Deep frying is the practice of cooking food in vegetable oil or fat that has a high thermal conductivity and allows the food to be cooked rapidly. Some types…
Commercial property inspectors, as well as investors who have recently acquired or are building a commercial property, should know about the advantages of having a cost segregation study (or CSS) performed for their own businesses and for others. This IRS-sanctioned program, based on the Investment Tax Credit, could mean a savings of more than 20% on…
Water towers are large, elevated water storage containers designed to hold a water supply at a height sufficient to pressurize a water distribution system. How They Work The height of the tower provides the hydrostatic pressure for the water supply system. The volume of the reservoir and the diameter of the piping regulate water pressure…
If your inspection business has outgrown your home office, consider leasing or purchasing commercial property. In addition to determining your new office’s size and location, and the budget you’ll need for monthly costs, you should familiarize yourself with some basic terms of the transaction. Always consult with a trusted commercial property broker and an attorney…
Commercial and residential inspectors know that facing potential dangers in the course of their inspections is an inherent risk of the job. In addition to wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and arming themselves with the proper tools and safety devices, inspectors must also maintain awareness of their exposure to various materials within the…
What is a building permit? A building permit is a permit required for new construction or renovations to existing structures. Local municipalities issue building permits for work that could affect the public’s health or safety, if improperly performed. How is a building permit obtained? In order to obtain a building permit, certain information must be…
A barn is an agricultural building, typically located on a ranch or farm (or former ranch or farm), and used for a variety of purposes, including: the storage of farming vehicles, equipment, and supplies; housing livestock; storing hay and other livestock food supplies; and as a covered work area. Inspectors who work in rural areas…
A baghouse, or fabric collector, is the generic name for an air pollution-control device designed to filter dust and other fine particles from contaminated air in commercial and industrial facilities. Baghouses provide clean air for employees and customers, protect the environment of nearby equipment, and lessen the plant’s contribution to outdoor air pollution. Baghouses control…