What To Expect During A Retail Property Inspection

Although commercial or retail business inspections typically happen when a new construction project is on the way, they’re more important than you may think. A retail property inspection can ensure a business always operates safely and efficiently. 

For starters, inspections check for any safety and health violations, uncovering any hazards that could put the occupants at risk, while also helping establish the baseline functionality of the building. 

If you’re still unsure whether you need a retail property inspection, keep on reading and learn everything there is to know about this valuable service.

What Is A Retail Property Inspection?

A retail property inspection is an evaluation of a property that is primarily used for retail purposes, such as supermarkets and any other store. The goal behind it is to identify any defects or issues with the property. 

Even though it’s recommended to have the property examined by a professional at least annually, inspections are most commonly conducted during the purchase of a property, or the start and end of the tenancy period. 

This is to be expected - leasing or purchasing a retail property requires a hefty investment, so a retail property inspection is often necessary to see to it that the investment is secure. Since inspectors are trained and licensed, they’re able to attest to the true condition of the property and have the necessary experience to ascertain the costs of Property maintenance or remedial work. 

Who Can Conduct A Retail Property Inspection?

For legal purposes, similarly to a regular commercial property inspection, a retail inspection can only be performed by licensed professionals. 

Building inspectors come from a variety of backgrounds and specialties. For instance, some inspectors only perform factory inspections because they have previous experience as structural engineers.

While working with an inspector who has a niche set of skills might seem like the best way to go, don’t discount commercial building inspectors who offer a wider range of services that also include residential inspections. 

As an example, the team of professionals working at Certified Inspectors has almost three decades of experience in real estate sales and construction, and we are certified to perform almost any kind of inspection there is - from a complex electrical system inspection, all the way to commercial, industrial, and retail inspections. 

What Does A Retail Property Inspection Include?

Commercial inspections are very comprehensive. The checkup may start with a walkthrough of a property, during which the inspector will take photographs that document any of the problem areas. Along with reviewing the documentation associated with the retail property, the inspection will also include a visual examination of the building’s exterior.

The exterior portion will focus on deficiencies and provide confirmation if any hidden signs of damage could point to bigger problems.

In the interior, the inspector will look for structural deficiencies and different safety hazards, as well as survey the condition of fittings and structures. For instance, this might include checking the building envelope, together with roofing, HVAC, and the plumbing or electrical system. 

Combining all of these, the inspector will write a report that identifies current problems and any future issues that may emerge, thus ensuring that the building is safe and all the systems are performing the way they are supposed to. 

On the documentation side of things, the specialist you hired to conduct the inspection will review all the necessary documentation, including mortgage documents, insurance policies, and sales contracts. This helps verify if the specifications and the condition of the buildings comply with all the said documents. 

Benefits Of Conducting Regular Retail Property Inspections

As we mentioned in the beginning, inspections are generally done when the property “changes hands”. Yet, there are many benefits of also scheduling a checkup when the building is under your lease or after purchasing, such as:

1. Reduced maintenance costs

Most issues, if ignored, get a chance to escalate into something far worse, which then requires quite a bit of funds to remedy. Since an inspection conducted by a specialist helps catch issues early, the ultimate result is a noticeable reduction in maintenance costs - which also has a drastic effect on the long-term ROI of the building.

2 .Increased the value of the property

The appreciation of the property depends on the location and the condition. While you can’t relocate the entire building to increase its value, you can directly raise its value by making a positive impact on its condition. 

By increasing the frequency of expert examinations, you’ll be able to make ongoing changes, which will lead to a better appreciation of the investment. 

3. Help with substantiating insurance claims

If you ever filed an insurance claim, you already know what a headache that can be. To be able to succeed, the insurance company requires proof and documentation that the damage that occurred wasn’t preventable. 

Because a retail property inspection report will provide you with written and photographic evidence on the condition of the building, it can be used as documentation to substantiate insurance claims.

When Is The Best Time To Schedule An Inspection?

Even though they’re treated as the end and start points for leases and purchases, you can conduct inspections at any time - and you absolutely should. 

Considering the benefits outlined above, you should schedule an inspection at least once a year. Since Florida is no stranger to hurricanes and other potentially destructive weather events, you can avoid a lot of trouble with insurance claims by conducting an examination before the hurricane season. 

Gain More Value From A Property With Certified Inspectors

There’s no other way to put it - Inspections are critical. Regardless of whether you’re moving into a new piece of real estate or want to take the maintenance of the building to the next level, a good going-over by a third-party expert will help you get the most out of the property.

If you’re unsure of who to contact, don’t take a gamble. Go with the safest choice - Certified Inspectors.

Due to the extent of our experience, almost every certification in the inspection industry, and critical eye for detail, we can provide you with the most economical solution for all your retail property needs. ​

Schedule an inspection now at (561) 570-6311 or request a proposal.