Building Inspection

Mohamed Hashim Civil Engineer

Introduction
Commercial buildings must provide a safe and secure environment for both workers and members of the public. Inspections of commercial buildings take place at various times. During the early stages of construction, building inspectors may examine the foundations and drainage to ensure that all legal regulatory standards have been complied with. Before being declared fit for occupancy, each commercial building receives a final inspection. In addition, every time a commercial building changes ownership, the new owners will appoint specialist inspectors to report on the structure and highlight any potential problems that may affect its value.

Building Structure
The precise details of an inspection of a commercial building will depend on the building's age, size, location and complexity. An inspection of a building's structure ensures that the building is in good condition and includes an analysis of the concrete, wood and steel components. Inspectors pay particular attention to the condition of the roof, especially if the building is old.

Fire
All commercial buildings must have fire safety routes and comprehensive fire suppression systems. Inspectors assess fire escapes, sprinkler systems and fire extinguishers and check whether they are in good operational order and accessible for all building users.

Heating and Ventilation

Building inspectors assess and test the heating and ventilation systems in place in a commercial building to ensure that they comply with state and federal codes and regulations. Replacing a heating or ventilation system can be costly, so any potential owner or user of a commercial building should seek reassurance that these systems are in good working order.

Electrical System
The electrical system in place must provide a safe and effective power supply that is fit for the purpose of the building. Commercial buildings may change use over time and an inspector can assess whether the electrical system is appropriate for the current or proposed use.

Local Codes
Each country/state has its own local codes and regulations regarding commercial buildings in its jurisdiction. Many of these relate to specific geographical or climatic conditions in the particular state and require that buildings be adequately protected. Environmental codes may also contain stipulations relating to specific materials, insulation or energy efficiency.

Check List
Below is a simple example of a building inspection checklist you could apply during your next inspection to purchase a house or apartment.

Doors
Does each door panel open and shut without obstruction of the door frame? Is the door panel a true rectangle shape or has it been planed to fit the frame?
Tip: Check for uneven gaps at the top and bottom of the door panel. Tip: Check that the striker plate has not been adjusted within the door jamb.

Windows
Attempt to open and close each window. Look for condensation and damp damage. Are there any cracked panels of glass?
Tip: Often timber frames are patched and painted with fiberglass filler, look for irregularities in the paint surface. Fiberglass filler and putties are only a short term repair they usually hide much worse damage.

Wall & Ceiling Surfaces

From the door way openings look at the line of the wall is there any buckling. Solid brick walls may have damp issues, are there any mould stains or irregular areas of fresh paint. Check the level of the ceilings is even and consistent or is there a lot of patch repair and damp stains. If it is a solid brick wall check for damp and mould markings along the floor level.

Kitchen
Look for damp stains at the junction of the splash back and kitchen sink. Check under the kitchen sink common leaks occur in the waste pipes. Take a hold of the plumbing from under the sink/bench top and give a firm but gentle shake to ensure the fittings are secure.

Bathroom(s)
Turn taps on and off. How long for hot water to start running? Check under sink for leaks. Check for any grout or sealant missing from the edge of shower bases, bath tubs and tiles. Check for installation of an exhaust fan. Check that shower screens open and close without damage.

Laundry
Usually the simplest of service areas to inspect check that the trough is secured in place, check for rust and ensure that there is a seal between the trough and the wall. The wall behind the trough should be tiled. For apartments pay particular attention to the location of an overflow drain pipe in the floor surface.

Toilets
Flush Toilet while viewing the area behind the seat look for leaks at the cistern and waste pipes. Aged rubber seals should be replaced. Check for excessive use of silicon sealant this is a sign of leakage and poor quality repair. Listen for water that is still running after the cistern has been filled It should come to a stop not continue forever.

Internal/External Wall Surface

Check for cracks Mould stains Peeled paint Weather attack
Dampness Water inside paint

Thank You