Commercial Property Inspection Process
A Systematic Evaluation of the Property's Major Components
At Advisory Commercial Property Inspections (ACPI), our inspection process follows the International Standards of Practice for Inspecting Commercial Properties (ComSOP). Our goal is to provide clients with a comprehensive visual assessment of the property's readily accessible systems and components, allowing informed decisions regarding acquisition, ownership, leasing, maintenance, or asset management.
Every property presents unique challenges and priorities. Before the inspection begins, we work with our client to define the inspection objectives, understand the property's intended use, review available documentation, and establish any agreed-upon scope modifications.
Pre-Inspection Consultation
The inspection process begins with gathering information about the property.
During this stage we may review:
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Property address and building use
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Age and size of the structure
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Number of buildings
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Occupancy status
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Previous inspection reports (when available)
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Maintenance records
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Renovation history
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Client concerns
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Areas requiring special attention
This consultation allows us to tailor the inspection to the client's objectives while remaining within the scope of the ComSOP.
On-Site Visual Inspection
Our inspector performs a thorough visual examination of the property's accessible components.
The inspection generally includes:
Site
Parking areas • Driveways • Sidewalks • Curbs • Drainage • Grading • Retaining walls • Exterior lighting • Site safety concerns
Building Exterior
Roof coverings (viewed from accessible locations) • Flashings • Exterior walls • Windows • Doors • Loading docks • Exterior stairs • Decks • Balconies • Canopies • Building envelope components
Structural Systems
Foundations • Floor systems • Framing • Columns • Beams • Roof framing • Structural walls (Visual inspection only. No destructive testing or engineering analysis.)
Electrical Systems
Main service equipment • Distribution panels • Disconnects • Representative branch wiring • Grounding and bonding • Lighting systems • Representative receptacles
Heating Systems
Boilers • Furnaces • Heat pumps • Distribution systems • Controls • Fuel connections • Venting
Cooling SystemsCondensers • Air handlers • Rooftop units • Split systems • Heat pumps • Distribution equipment
Plumbing Systems
Water supply piping • Drain, waste and vent piping • Water heaters • Fixtures • Pumps • Representative operation of plumbing fixtures
InteriorWalls • Ceilings • Floors • Doors • Windows • Stairs • Handrails • General interior conditions
Insulation & VentilationAttic insulation • Roof ventilation • Crawlspace ventilation • Mechanical ventilation systems
Built-In Kitchen Equipment
Permanently installed appliances • Commercial kitchen equipment included within the agreed inspection scope
Representative Sampling
Commercial buildings often contain hundreds—or even thousands—of similar components.
Following the ComSOP, inspectors use representative sampling where appropriate rather than operating every identical component. This approach provides an efficient evaluation while identifying significant observable deficiencies that may indicate broader issues.
Examples include:
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Doors
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Windows
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Electrical receptacles
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HVAC units
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Plumbing fixtures
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Lighting fixtures
Documenting Observed Conditions
Throughout the inspection, we document observations using written notes and high-resolution photographs.
The report identifies:
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Significant deficiencies
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Material defects
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Safety concerns
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Components requiring repair
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Components requiring further evaluation
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Deferred maintenance
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Conditions affecting normal operation
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Items not inspected and the reason they were excluded
Review of Available Documentation
When provided by the owner or client, we may review readily available documents such as:
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Maintenance records
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Equipment information
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Service history
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Permits
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Building drawings
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Existing inspection reports
These documents provide helpful background information but do not replace the visual inspection.
Inspection Report Delivery
Following completion of the inspection, clients receive a detailed digital report that includes:
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Inspection findings
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Photographs
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Descriptions of observed deficiencies
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Recommendations for repairs
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Recommendations for further evaluation when appropriate
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Limitations encountered during the inspection
Reports are designed to provide clear, organized information that assists owners, investors, lenders, property managers, and tenants in understanding the property's observable condition on the day of the inspection.
What the Inspection Does Not Include
A commercial property inspection performed under the ComSOP is primarily a visual inspection of readily accessible components.
Unless specifically agreed upon in writing, the inspection does not include:
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Destructive testing
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Engineering analysis
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Code compliance inspections
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Environmental testing
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Hazardous materials identification
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Mold testing
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Asbestos inspections
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Lead paint testing
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Indoor air quality testing
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ADA compliance surveys
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Property boundary surveys
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Cost estimating
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Remaining useful life calculations
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Predicting future failures
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Warranty evaluations
Specialized inspections can often be arranged when additional evaluation is desired.
A Practical, Objective Assessment
Our inspection process is designed to provide an independent, objective evaluation of the property's observable condition. By following the Commercial Standards of Practice (ComSOP), we help clients understand significant issues, prioritize repairs, and make informed real estate decisions with confidence.
Whether you are purchasing, leasing, managing, or investing in commercial real estate, ACPI delivers thorough, professional inspections focused on clear communication, detailed reporting, and practical results.
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