Many private building inspection inspectors work closely with structural engineers to verify that buildings meet minimum code requirements. This can help builders and buyers alike avoid costly mistakes that could arise later. A pre-purchase home inspection can save new homeowners from surprises and unexpected repairs that can put a damper on their happiness in their new home.
The inspection report will include a list of any deficiencies or safety code violations identified during the inspection. These issues will be categorized according to their severity and prioritized for repair.
Building inspections
Unlike home inspectors, who conduct a visual examination of the general condition of a private property, building inspectors look specifically for flaws in construction that could threaten the safety of those living and working inside the structure. In order to identify these issues, they must carefully examine blueprints and plans before construction begins, as well as perform inspections during and after construction to check for things like floor and ceiling joists, structural integrity, fire-safety necessities and staircases.
They also have the power to shut down projects that don’t meet code standards. In fact, many smaller municipalities contract out their entire building department to third-party inspectors. Belcher said the use of these inspectors is a growing trend, but he emphasized that they still need to be licensed and trained.
He gave the example of an expediter who helped a homeowner with a building violation by coordinating professional tradespeople to correct the issue and then attending the hearing on his behalf. This type of service can save homeowners both time and money while ensuring that their buildings are safe for occupancy.
Home inspections
When a home inspector conducts an inspection, he or she may check for leaning walls that point to faulty framing; stained ceilings that indicate water problems; insufficient insulation in the attic; and a host of other potential issues. Inspectors also examine interior rooms, checking things like how well range hood fans vent to the outside; whether showers and sinks drain properly; and whether electrical outlets have ground circuit interrupter protection.
Another big advantage of private inspectors is that they typically offer flexible scheduling – an important consideration when it comes to real estate transactions and construction projects. Government-employed inspectors, on the other hand, often have heavy workloads that can lead to rushed inspections and insufficient attention to detail.
Commercial inspections
Commercial inspections are a lucrative opportunity for home inspectors to capitalize on a growing industry. This sector of the market typically involves commercial properties such as office buildings, retail/restaurants, multifamily dwellings, and land.
Unlike home inspectors, who usually perform a sweeping visual inspection of the property, commercial building inspectors focus on the condition and projected lifespan of a building’s five major systems: HVAC, plumbing, roofing, and structure. They also check fire safety systems and alarms.
Private inspectors are often dedicated to a single project, allowing them to provide more thorough and detailed inspections than their government counterparts. This dedicated attention can help avoid costly mistakes and potential delays in construction projects. It can also help ensure that a project’s minimum code requirements are met. Additionally, private inspectors can offer more flexibility in scheduling inspections than their government counterparts, which may accelerate the process of completing due diligence. This is particularly important in real estate transactions, where time is of the essence.
Pre-purchase inspections
When a property is up for sale, it’s essential that it undergoes a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) before the sales transaction can be completed. A PPI is an important tool that helps buyers make informed decisions about their investment, and it also allows builders to identify faults in the construction process that could potentially be costly to repair.
A private building inspector can conduct these inspections in a much more timely manner than a government-employed inspector, which can be beneficial for both parties. This is because many real estate transactions and construction projects require a swift turnaround.
It’s up to local jurisdictions whether or not they allow third-party inspectors to perform plan review and building inspections. However, Joe Belcher of JDB Code Services in Homosassa, Florida, says that many small cities hire private companies for their high-rise plan review and inspections because they don’t have the staff to handle it themselves. Some municipalities even outsource their entire building department to a private company.