How Much Does A Commercial Building Inspection Cost?
Commercial Building Inspection Cost
So many commercial building investors ask the question, “How much does a commercial building inspection cost?” We are here to break it all down.
The answer to this question is simple, yet ambiguous. The answer is that it really depends.
A commercial building inspection cost depends on the building size, type, geographical location, the buyer’s wants and needs, and other factors. Each commercial building is unique, so the inspection experience must be priced accordingly. Honestly, as commercial building inspectors, we rarely charge the same fee for an inspection. It boils down to all of the nuances for each commercial inspection request we receive.
Unfortunately, the answer isn’t super straightforward or specific. However, the trend we see across the United States is somewhere between 12 - 25 cents per square foot, on average. We can only speak on behalf of our Des Moines inspection team, in which we price our services competitively, yet fairly.
Our commercial building inspection cost is quoted based on several factors, as mentioned previously. We offer a full commercial inspection in which we follow an hourly fee structure vs a square footage model. Our hourly fee structure ranges from $200 - 300/hr, plus additional flat fees for ancillary services, including sewer scope inspection, radon testing, cost analysis, and more. You receive information regarding ancillary service pricing when you request a commercial inspection quote. Simply complete our online inspection request form to receive your custom quote and specify any specific needs you desire.
The Commercial Inspection Process
Understanding the commercial inspection process can help you prepare and know what to expect for the inspection and price tag. Here are the typical steps involved:
Pre-inspection: Before the on-site visit, the inspector will review the property’s history, including any previous inspections, repairs, and maintenance records. This background information helps the inspector understand the property’s condition and any recurring issues.
On-site inspection: The inspector will conduct a thorough visual examination of the property’s exterior and interior. This includes checking all systems and components, such as the roof, walls, floors, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems.
Testing and evaluation: To identify hidden problems, the inspector may perform specialized tests. For example, thermal imaging can reveal insulation issues, while moisture testing can detect leaks or water damage.
Report preparation: After the inspection, the inspector will compile a detailed report summarizing their findings. This report will highlight any defects, damage, or safety hazards and provide recommendations for repairs and maintenance.
Report delivery: The final step is delivering the digital inspection report to you via your inspection portal. The report will serve as a valuable tool for making informed decisions about the property.
Additional Services and Considerations
Beyond the standard commercial building inspection, there are several additional services and considerations that can provide a more comprehensive understanding of your property’s condition. These services can be crucial, depending on the specific needs of your commercial property.
Environmental Testing: This service includes testing for hazardous materials such as asbestos and lead. Identifying these materials is essential for ensuring the safety of the building’s occupants and complying with environmental regulations.
Structural Evaluation: You will want to consider an in-depth structural evaluation of the property, particularly for complex systems and major structural concerns.
Sewer Line Inspection: The sewer system is the carrier for all waste. If you are looking to purchase a property that contains several restrooms with tenants or employees, this is an invaluable service that may be consequential to skip.
Other Services: If there are other services you need, such as an inspection for mold or heavy equipment for example, reach out to us. We have a myriad of trusted contacts we can organize on your behalf.
Discussing these additional services with your commercial building inspector can help you determine which ones are relevant to your property. Including these services in your inspection can provide a more comprehensive inspection report, giving you a clearer picture of the property’s condition and any potential issues. You will want to factor in any additional services into the overall inspection cost.
Commercial Building Inspection Importance
A thorough property inspection conducted by a certified commercial building inspector is super important when making a huge investment. It’s not advised that you inspect the property yourself, even with construction knowledge/experience, because inspecting is a very niche skill set. Paying thousands or even millions of dollars for a property is an investment you definitely want to walk into with eyes wide open. Whether you’re a large business pro expanding your portfolio or a first-time solo investor, a thorough inspection is money well worth spending because it will uncover the authentic condition of the property and help you understand the costs associated with any necessary treatments, repairs, and replacements.
A commercial property inspection can provide many benefits. Some benefits to consider are the following:
Major Systems - HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems are all evaluated. These are big ticket items to not overlook. The roof, structure, grounds, and drainage are also very important areas to inspect for major defects and potential repairs.
We recommend adding two additional services: sewer line inspection and cost analysis. The sewer line inspection, also known as sewer scope inspection, will visually inspect the lateral sewer line connecting the building to the city main or septic system. This is especially important because most investors overlook it since it’s “out of sight, out of mind.” We have saved both our residential and commercial inspection clients tens of thousands in repairs. Read more about our sewer line inspection service.
Cost Analysis - The more defects found, the more this will cost in repairs, replacements, treatments. You’ll want this information to validate any purchase decision. A cost analysis is a great way to determine roughly how much repairs will cost you if you proceed with the purchase. Of course, this is valuable information to have when making an investment decision. Hire us to provide a cost estimate of those big ticket items in need of repair. We recommend adding this service onto your inspection for every investment property.
Property Value - The more repairs are required, this may decrease the property value which will leave room for potential negotiation with the seller. For example, if purchasing the building for $2,000,000 but $500,000 are needed in repairs, that information will be handy when making your final investment decision.
Safety - Inspectors can identify safety hazards and potential safety concerns that could put tenants, building occupants, and employees at risk for things, such as fires, electrical problems, broken guardrails, trip hazards, and more. If you have specific safety concerns, be sure to let us know when submitting your quote request.
Operating Expenses - Landlords can use inspection findings to anticipate short-term and long-term operating expenses which factor into the final cash flow analysis.
Maintenance - A good commercial inspection will identify small issues that could be larger problems down the road. Sometimes something as simple as a good cleaning of the sewer line or replacing a leaky faucet could save you thousands.
Lifespan - Routine inspections can identify normal wear and tear which may help prolong the lifespan of the property. We recommend having an annual maintenance inspection done on the entire property for optimal benefit. We perform annual maintenance inspections, so call us to schedule or submit the form on our website.
Commercial Building Inspection Hiring
At Forever Home Inspection Iowa, our commercial building inspection includes all of the items mentioned and more, depending on preference and need. For a detailed understanding of what is and is not inspected, view CCPIA’s International Standards of Practice for Inspecting Commercial Properties (ComSOP). If you have questions regarding the ComSOP, please contact us. We’re here to answer questions with clarity!
With our InterNACHI and CCPIA commercially trained, experienced, and keen eye for detail, we can assist you in navigating the pros and pitfalls of a property so you can be confident in making an informed investment decision. Let our dual-certified inspectors lead the way!
Now What?
We are consistently told that we are the best commercial building inspector in Des Moines, Iowa. We’re excited to partner with you on your inspection! Connect with us by giving us a call or start the scheduling process with our online form. Our friendly and responsive admin team is available to help answer any questions you may have about our services.
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