What is Building Inspection?
A building inspection verifies if a structure complies with building codes and minimum safety standards. Licensed inspectors run a visual check to see if there are any defective components or damaged areas in the building. Conducting inspections ensures that new and remodeled structures are safe and sturdy before opening to the public.
Why is it Important?
Building inspections offer plenty of advantages for property owners and buyers alike.
First, it provides property owners with a thorough assessment of their building. Inspectors check for any structural defects that can endanger the occupants in the building. Detecting these faults early on helps owners resolve them immediately.
Moreover, inspections guarantee that buildings meet essential health, safety, and quality standards. It ensures that buildings have structural integrity based on prescribed building codes. Following these regulations also shows the owner’s commitment to safety and quality.
On the buyer’s side, building inspections can help them determine the quality of the building that they plan to buy. They receive assurance that they’re making the right choice when purchasing a building.
Types of Building Inspections
Building inspections come in two different kinds: general and specialized. Learn more about their differences in this section.
General Building Inspections
This type of inspection involves evaluating the overall structure and quality of the property. Inspectors review the facilities, identify signs of deterioration, and provide recommendations based on the location’s building codes and regulations.
General building inspections include the following types:
- Residential building inspection
- Commercial building inspection
- Institutional building inspection
- Public works building inspection
- Pre-purchase building inspection
Specialized Building Inspections
On the other hand, specialized inspections probe into specific aspects of the property. Inspectors run checks to find if these facilities follow the mandated requirements.
Specialized building inspections consist of the following types:
- Elevator inspection
- Floor inspection
- Mechanical inspection
- Plumbing inspection
- Structural inspection
- Waterproofing inspection
Things to Include in a Builder’s Inspection Checklist
A building inspection checklist assists inspectors and property owners in evaluating a facility’s condition. This section outlines the essential elements of this checklist.
Building Details
The checklist starts with the details about the building. This element helps supervisors and managers easily identify the structure in the inspection report.
It typically consists of the following items:
- Building ID number (if any)
- Building site/unit
- Building location
- Name of inspector
- Date of inspection
Safety and Quality Standards
Incorporating building standards is a must in any building inspection checklist. It must align with building codes and regulations set by various governing bodies.
These rules and regulations vary from one country to another. Some might have state, federal, and international standards that buildings must follow. Some examples include the following:
- International Building Code (IBC)
- Building Codes (US)
- Building Regulations (UK)
- National Construction Code of Australia
Areas in the Building
Inspectors and property owners have to check every part of the building during inspections. Having a handy digital checklist streamlines this process and makes sure they don’t miss any spots.
Here’s a list of the necessary places to include in a building inspection checklist:
- Building interior (floors, walls, aisles, halls, stairs, verandas, etc.)
- Building exterior (stairs, pathways, walls, etc.)
- Under-floor space, foundations, and stumps
- Roofing (exterior, guttering, space)
- Means of egress (passageways, exits, etc.)
- Car and garage spaces
- Fencing, driveways, steps, paths, etc.
Utility Services
Aside from this, it’s also crucial to assess the quality of utility services inside the building. After all, a well-functioning structure won’t work without electricity, water, ventilation, and safety equipment. Some inspectors offer services specifically for these vital areas.
This element consists of the following items:
- Electrical systems
- Plumbing systems (piping, wastewater disposal, drainages, etc.)
- Mechanical systems (HVAC systems, appliances, etc.)
- Fire safety, prevention, and protection mechanisms
- Pest control mechanisms
Sign-Offs
Upon finishing the inspection, inspectors must attach their signature and full name at the end of the report. It indicates who the inspector is and verifies that the process is complete.
This portion can also include the inspector’s judgment about the building and recommendations for repair, replacement, or maintenance.
