Top Things Inspectors Check During A Commercial Building Inspection
A commercial inspection blends detective work with building science, revealing how a property performs under daily loads and seasonal stressors. The checklist spans structure, systems, safety, envelope, and documentation, translating observations into risk, cost, and timing.
Structural and Roof
A commercial building inspector studies foundations, framing, load paths, and signs of settlement, cracking, deflection, or moisture intrusion that weaken capacity and service life. Roofs are evaluated for surface condition, drainage, penetrations, flashing, and evidence of leaks that migrate into interiors.
Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing
Building systems directly impact occupant comfort and operational performance. Inspectors evaluate HVAC age, capacity, and function, electrical service and distribution, and plumbing supply, drains, and heaters. Findings often include outdated panels, corroded piping, or short-cycling units that indicate upcoming capital needs.
Fire and Life Safety
Fire alarms, sprinklers, extinguishers, emergency lighting, and egress routes are examined for operation, coverage, and maintenance records against applicable codes. Elevators and escalators, if present, are reviewed for functionality and documentation consistent with safety standards and required service intervals.
Building Envelope
Walls, glazing, sealants, doors, and waterproofing are evaluated for cracks, failed joints, thermal bridges, and water intrusion that can cause interior damage and mold. The roof-to-wall interface and penetrations receive careful attention, as even small gaps can lead to extensive repair costs.
Interior Conditions
Floors, ceilings, and walls are inspected for staining, spalling, delamination, or differential movement that point to hidden leaks or structural issues. Accessibility features, signage, and path of travel are also noted to spot gaps that may affect compliance and user experience.
Site and Parking
Pavement, drainage, grading, and sidewalks are reviewed for ponding, trip hazards, and settlement, along with lighting, curbs, and entry accessibility. Poor drainage and deferred asphalt maintenance frequently appear as recurring lifecycle costs in inspection reports.
Balconies and Exterior Elevated Elements
Where present, decks and balconies are examined for corrosion, rot, cracked concrete, loose fasteners, and movement under foot. Inspectors may identify hidden risks at beams, joists, ledgers, and waterproofing that compromise load capacity well before visible failure occurs.
Documents and Records
Plans, permits, maintenance logs, prior reports, and testing data help correlate field observations with history, revealing patterns and unresolved defects. Strong documentation also clarifies the upgrade scope for future work, from panel replacements to roof overlays.
Environmental and Health
Reports may identify asbestos-containing materials, lead-based paint, mold from chronic leaks, pests, or underground storage hazards. These findings often prompt specialized testing and abatement planning that affect schedules and capital expenditure planning.
From Findings to Action
The final report merges notes, photos, and defect categorization to prioritize near-term repairs and long-range capital projects. Owners and buyers use this roadmap to price risk, negotiate, and schedule targeted remediation that safeguards operations.
Book Your Commercial Building Inspection in Florida
At Stone Building Solutions, our commercial building inspectors blend structural expertise with practical field experience to identify risks early and recommend effective solutions for Florida condos and commercial assets.
From Phase 1 Milestone inspections to balcony checks, recertifications, and property condition reports, we turn findings into stamped drawings and clear bid docs that keep timelines tight.
With sealed envelope bidding and construction monitoring, you get vetted contractors, cleaner pricing, and fewer surprises during build-out and repairs.
Bundle your Structural Integrity Reserve Study with inspections to streamline planning and save time. Talk with an engineer today.