The most important consideration of performing a commercial property inspection is safety. One potential liability and a primary safety concern is testing and operating commercial building systems and components. These…
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…
Here are some step-by-step instructions for handling calls from prospective clients. Think of it as a guide for landing business. It requires you to devote time and resources to your…
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…
In the construction industry, a schedule is a tabular approach to organizing and presenting lists of building materials, systems, and components. For instance, schedules are common for windows in a…
There are very few constants in construction or inspections, but one basic construction principle is that buildings should be plumb, level, square and straight (PLSS). In inspecting a structure, anything…
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…