When selling commercial real estate, it’s often advantageous to have the property inspected before listing it on the market. Doing so alerts you to any immediate areas of concern, and gives you time to make any needed repairs. It also provides you with a more accurate sale price, so you can raise or lower it accordingly and remove over-inflated buyer estimates. If you are selling property for the first time, here is what you can expect from a pre-listing inspection. 

What Is Examined During a Commercial Real Estate Inspection?

1. Structural Framing & Grounds

The inspector will begin by examining the exterior of the building. They’ll check the siding, exterior doors, and any attached equipment like handrails, stairs, and balconies for signs of damage, deterioration, or safety issues. They will also look over the roof for signs of exposed membrane, ponding, and visible damage to the gutter system, vents, and other penetrations. 

The inspection should also include a walkover of the property surrounding the building. They’ll note the general topography, the condition of the drainage system, sidewalk, parking, exterior lighting, and the condition of any hardscaping. 

2. Walls, Windows, & Doors

The inspector will look for any cracks in the interior walls that might be signs of foundation problems. They’ll also check for water damage and test for mold. 

During this time, they’ll also look over the windows and doors. There shouldn’t be any cracks in any of the framing, and the mechanisms should be in good working order to allow the structures to open and close correctly.

3. Plumbing, Electrical, & HVAC Systems

For the most part, the commercial inspector will perform a visual inspection of the property’s heating and cooling, plumbing, and electrical systems. They will identify the location and accessibility of the heater and air conditioner, check the meter, and note any need for repairs, inoperable conditions, and fire hazards.

As for your plumbing, they will locate the main water valve and identify any backflow prevention devices and pressure relief valves. They’ll also test all visible water appliances and check for any damage.

The electrical inspection will span the entire property. They will need to identify the service main, drop and lateral lines, panelboards, and meter socket enclosures. Mostly, the inspector will be looking for missing parts, absent labeling, and potential for fires to start. Still, they will also test any Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter receptacles and ground-fault circuit interpreters.

When you need assistance selling your commercial real estate, turn to the professionals at KW Commercial in Florence, KY. Their commercial real estate agents have an extensive understanding of the Greater Cincinnati area marketplace. They are able to help you successfully buy, sell, or lease a property that meets your investment goals. Call (859) 359-6805 to speak with one of their agents today, and visit their website to learn more about their properties.