There are several valid reasons to have a commercial property inspected long after it has been built. The building might be designated for sale, or an investor may be looking at the property to purchase, and then intends to lease sections of it to tenants. Whatever the reason, a full inspection of the building (a Baseline Commercial Property Inspection)—especially if the age of the building warrants concern—is a smart investment decision.
If you are intending to sell the building, a Baseline Commercial Property Inspection is necessary. The American Society for Testing and Materials calls this a “PCA,” or Property Condition Assessment. A PCA includes a walk-through survey, a document review, and an inspector conducting interviews to determine the building’s condition.
Next, the results of the PCA will be reported in a Property Condition Report (PCR). The baseline commercial property inspection helps owners and buyers to understand what operations will be required in the selling process, and the types of maintenance required. Prospective investors can gain confidence by viewing the full report generated by the team who conducted the inspection.
What is inspected during a Baseline Commercial Property Inspection:
Structural frame and the building’s envelope
All roof surface areas
Site characteristics (such as landscaping, paving, and utilities)
Plumbing systems
Heating systems
Air conditioning and ventilation
Interior elements
Safety issues and fire protection
Vertical transportation (elevators, if relevant)
Opinions concerning probable costs
Document review
Recommendations and prediction of present condition outcomes
AcuSystem Inspections will often include experts from different industries to complete the most accurate Property Condition Assessment. These experts may include structural engineers, HVAC specialists, electrical specialists, paving specialists, roof experts, fire protection specialists, and the like. An accurate picture is necessary so the purchaser can know the real condition of the building.
