Licensing and Standards
Is a specific commercial property inspector license required in Arizona?
No, the State of Arizona does not promulgate specific commercial property inspection standards or licenses. Many inspectors are state-licensed home inspectors who use the state home inspection standards as a guide. Pinnacle Building Inspections is certified by CCPIA to perform commercial inspections in accordance with the ComSOP.
What standards do inspectors follow?
Most professional commercial property inspectors in Arizona follow industry-accepted guidelines such as the International Standards of Practice for Inspecting Commercial Properties (ComSOP) or the ASTM E2018-15 Standard Guide for Property Condition Assessments (PCA).
Do inspectors check for building code compliance?
Generally, property inspectors do not “pass or fail” a property or verify compliance with local building codes. Their report describes the property’s physical condition and identifies needed repairs and safety concerns. For official code compliance, the local municipality’s building and safety division conducts those inspections.
Scope and Process
What does a commercial inspection cover?
The scope can vary based on client needs, but a baseline assessment generally covers the site, structure, building envelope, roofing, plumbing, HVAC, electrical, life safety/fire protection, parking lot, and interior elements.
How long does an inspection take?
The duration varies significantly depending on the building’s size, complexity, and condition, usually taking several hours to a full day.
Can the client attend the inspection?
Yes, most inspectors encourage clients to attend the on-site review to better understand the property’s condition and have their questions answered personally.
What if issues are found?
If major problems are discovered, the buyer or lessee can use the inspection report findings to negotiate with the seller for repairs, a lower price, or more favorable contract terms.
Are environmental hazards tested?
General property inspections may screen for some environmental hazards, but detailed evaluations for things like radon, asbestos, or lead typically require bringing in environmental experts or third parties.
Cost and Payment
How much does a commercial inspection cost?
The price depends on the type, size, age, and location of the building, as well as the desired depth of the inspection. Inspectors generally provide a custom quote based on the specific property’s details.
When is payment due?
Payment policies vary by company. Many require the full inspection fee upfront, often no less than 48 hours before the inspection starts.