Building owner negligence has been a common problem in various parts of the country for years. This has caused disastrous incidents, such as the Surfside Condominium collapse in Miami in 2021. The failure of the owners to properly maintain the structure, coupled with flaweddesigns and other external factors, resulted in 98 casualties and numerous families looking for new homes.
A detailed report on the building’s condition can benefit propertyowners in the long run, especially if it is used for commercial purposes. Commercial buildingsare spaces wherepeople shop, dine, play, socialize, and work. Not understanding the property’s actual staterisks people’s lives.
This is why requesting a commercial building inspection in NJ is an ideal solution for many investors and building owners. Partnering with a commercial building engineer in NJ can help uncover structural flaws that pose a significant risk. Common hidden issues usually hard to detect are faulty electrical wiring, pipe leaks, and building envelope cracks.
The engineer will also examine the property’s major systems. They will visually inspect the roofing, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) systems, and fire protection equipment. Reviewing these can help the engineers assess the remaining life of the components and see if repairs or replacements are needed.
The site’s external condition will also be assessed, as this can significantly affect a building’s overallhealth. This includes the sidewalks, curbs, parking slots, adjacent streets, and other surrounding areas. The engineer will also review the property’s records, such as maintenance records and appraisals.
After the inspection, the engineer will provide a detailed property condition assessment (PCA) report explaining their findings and recommendations. This report can help investors, lenders, portfolio managers, and insurance underwriters discern if the commercial building is a profitable investment.
To learn more about the importance of commercial building inspection in New Jersey, check this infographic provided by Lockatong Engineering.