High-Performance Buildings
Americans spend most of their time inside buildings. We take for granted the shelter, protection, warmth, coolness, air, and light that buildings provide, and rarely give a thought to the…
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Green Strategies for Commercial Buildings
Considering the economic environment and its recent effects on commercial real estate, going green is a wise way to cut costs in operating office buildings, retail stores, manufacturing facilities and…
Grease Trap Inspection
Commercial property inspectors, especially those who inspect food-handling establishments, can assist their clients in understanding the operation of grease traps so that their maintenance is not neglected. An inoperable or…
Going Commercial: Moving the Office Out of the Home
As a residential property inspector, you may have run your business out of your home for years, using a space or room dedicated to your business activities. Much of your…
Firestops
A firestop is a passive fire-protection method designed to diminish the opportunity for fire to spread through unprotected openings in a rated firewall. Such openings are found around the perimeter…
Fire Extinguisher Maintenance and Inspection
Fire extinguishers are devices commonly found indoors and are used to douse fire and prevent its spread. They are small metal canisters that contain compressed gas (usually nitrogen) that, when…
Fire Alarm Systems
Fire alarm systems are designed to protect people and their property from fire and smoke, but they cannot be relied upon unless they are routinely inspected by professionals. Regular inspection…
Inspecting EPDM
EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a synthetic rubber membrane with elastic properties commonly used to cover low-slope roofs on both residential homes and commercial structures. Its manufacture includes the use…
Dust Inspection
Dust is a general name for solid, airborne particles. While most types of dust are relatively harmless, they can sometimes cause sickness or even fuel a fire. Large dust particles are typically…
Dry Cleaners: What Inspectors, Buyers, and Property Managers Should Know
Dry cleaners may appear to be simple storefronts, but they present serious safety challenges related to fire risks and health and environmental hazards. Property owners, managers, and prospective buyers should…
Deep Fryer Inspection
A deep fryer, also known as a deep-fat fryer (or frier), is a kitchen appliance used for deep frying. While commonly used in commercial kitchens, smaller household models are now…
Cost Segregation Studies for Commercial Properties
Commercial property inspectors, as well as investors who have recently acquired or are building a commercial property, should know about the advantages of having a cost segregation study (or CSS)…