Get the most out of your inspection with some very basic
preparation
Before the inspection Before visiting the site, check with your
local jurisdiction to determine: ?The site's zoning, setback,
height, and building coverage requirements, ?Grandfathered uses
and conditions, proffers, liens, and applicable fire
regulations. ?If the site is in an seismic zone. ?If the site is
in a hurricane or high tornado-risk region. ?If the site is in a
flood plain or other flood-risk zone. ?If there is any record of
hazards in the soil or water on or near the site.
Conducting the on-site inspection Once you are at the site,
conduct a brief walk-through of the building and the site. Make
note the property's overall condition and appearance. If it
appears to have been well maintained, it is far less likely to
have serious problems. Note the building's period and style and
try to determine when it was built.
Next, examine the quality of the building's construction and
design and that of its neighborhood. There is no substitute for
good design and durable, sound construction. Finally, do an
assessment of the building's functional layout. Does the
building "work" or will it have to be significantly altered to
make it usable and marketable?
Look for signs of water damage and dampness. Water is usually a
building's biggest enemy and a dry building will not have
problems with wood decay, subterranean termites, or corroded and
rusted equipment.
The formal inspection After completing the initial walk-through,
begin the formal inspection process: ?Inspect the site, building
exterior, and building interior ?Record pertinent information as
needed. ?Inspect the structural, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC
systems ?Record the size, capacity, and other relevant
information about each system or component as needed.
While most inspections consist of observing, measuring, and
testing building elements that are exposed to view, there are
conditions that require the removal of some part of the building
to observe, measure, or test otherwise concealed construction.
Such intrusive inspections require some demolition and should be
performed only with the permission of the owner and by
experienced, qualified mechanics. Record general building data
and site layouts, elevations, and floor plans first. This
information will form the basis for later rehabilitation
decisions. Then record the size, capacity, and condition/needed
repairs information for each building component. This will
highlight what needs to be repaired or replaced. The inspection
may be completed in one visit or over several visits, depending
on the property's condition, the weather, problems of access,
and the need for testing or expert help.
About the author:
Larry Westfall is the owner of http:://www.AboutCarpentry.com
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