Types of Building Inspections You Should Know
Building inspectors are responsible for ensuring construction projects comply with local building codes and regulations, by reviewing plans, identifying code violations, working with stakeholders to resolve issues, and reviewing plans again for compliance issues.
Are You Thinking About Becoming a Building Inspector? Knowing about all the types of inspections Available Can Be Beneficial (See 13 Specialized Inspects Below for further Information.
Electrical
Building inspectors may conduct several types of electrical component and wiring inspections, including final and annual audits that are often required of businesses. This ensures that existing or newly completed electrical work meets professional standards and safety codes.
Framing inspections involve checking that the installation of structural components such as studs, beams and similar structural pieces is completed correctly. They can also check for GFCI/AFCI protection which has become mandatory in outlets located outdoors, below grade or near sources of water.
Building inspectors may conduct visual inspections as part of their administrative responsibilities, as well as complete tasks like reviewing plans, issuing permits, and creating inspection reports using computer software programs.
Plumbing
As with electrical systems, plumbing components will also be assessed by inspectors to ensure they’re functioning and in good condition. This may involve inspecting fixtures such as toilets and water supply lines; moreover, inspectors may suggest further checks or repairs of these systems.
Commercial building inspections typically focus on five key components, such as roofing, plumbing, HVAC and structural integrity. This allows investors, new purchasers and tenants to gain a clear understanding of a property before making purchasing or leasing decisions.
Exterior structures are regularly inspected to ensure they adhere to local laws and regulations, as well as identify any necessary repairs costs. This inspection typically covers parking lots/structures/landscape designs/roofing systems/roofers etc. Inspectors often consult construction contractors, roofers and building code experts for insights to assess a structure’s exterior health.
HVAC
An HVAC inspection is a comprehensive examination of an air conditioning and heating system, including testing for various issues such as:
Safety controls – When inspecting furnace heat exchangers for carbon monoxide poisoning, inspectors should examine both their amps and speeds as well as any connections that might allow carbon monoxide poisoning to take place. They should also be on the lookout for signs of combustion which could result in carbon monoxide poisoning.
Imbalanced dampers – A building’s different zones require different cooling and heating needs, so the dampers must be checked to make sure they all operate at the same level. An inspector should also be mindful to check for loose connections that could potentially lead to electrical shorts and fires.
Preventative HVAC maintenance and inspections can keep a system operating at peak performance, cutting energy costs and avoiding unexpected repairs.
Exterior
Building inspectors aren’t limited to inspecting homes and structures – they may also check outdoor areas like sidewalks and streets as well as construction equipment like cranes.
Building inspectors must collaborate and communicate with various parties throughout the construction process, working alongside engineers, architects and contractors to ensure the final product adheres to code requirements.
Before purchasing any building, a building inspector conducts a pre-purchase inspection to assess its condition. The pre-purchase inspection includes an exhaustive visual analysis of all easily accessible systems and components present during this examination, typically houses, condos, commercial, industrial and institutional properties as well as their exterior finishes – this inspection typically identifies leaks, foundation issues and exterior finish damage among other issues.
Interior
Building inspections involve more than the exterior and structure of a structure; they also cover its property inspection melbourne interior space in houses, condominiums, commercial spaces or industrial facilities.
This encompasses new framing, drywall installation and siding work. Additionally, rough plumbing such as new drain lines or water heaters might need to be reviewed in addition to finish plumbing for such items as new kitchen sinks or bathtubs.
Inspection is vitally important as it ensures the interior of a building satisfies necessary health, safety and quality standards. Furthermore, this inspection helps demonstrate compliance with prescribed laws and regulations which is invaluable when buying or selling property; and can even prevent unexpected problems in the future.