Building inspections are essential for your company’s future. One problem can end up costing you tens of thousands of dollars and can even drown you in debt. Roof problems, for example, can cause structural and internal water damage. Unless you’ve had your roof inspected, you may not know that it’s even necessary. Here are the most important steps in building inspection. Before you sign on the dotted line, get a building inspection from Landmark Building Inspections done!
Pre-construction site inspections
Pre-construction site inspections are necessary to ensure that the work done on a building is up to standard. These inspections may be part of the general contract administration process or the client onboarding. Depending on the scope of the project, the construction site inspectors may include a project manager or a different consultant. Periodic inspections may be performed by the design consultant. Both parties benefit from these inspections.
As part of the inspection process, it is vital to determine the project scope. Construction inspectors should consider the client’s needs and budget, as this will directly impact the overall project’s completion timeframe and cost. Construction projects that are not completed on time or within budget may face legal complications later on, which may cost the client a great deal of money. Thus, the inspection process should include a daily or weekly update on project schedules.
Whether it is an apartment complex or a hospital, construction inspections are essential for ensuring the highest standards of quality. These inspections also ensure that installation materials meet approved drawings and plans. This allows the contractor to complete their work efficiently while avoiding risk and litigation. Furthermore, pre-construction site inspections help prevent any unforeseen issues from cropping up during the construction process. Furthermore, these inspections will ensure the safety of the contractors and the local community.
The scope of a construction project can be determined by pre-construction site inspections. These surveys also allow contractors to evaluate the effects of construction on adjacent buildings. The reports provided by these surveys are important documentation that can help prevent contractors from claiming ill-gotten damages during the construction process. Visual inspections are an essential component of a report. A visual inspection can reveal irregularities and allow the contractor to focus its efforts on those structures that are in need of repair.
The purpose of pre-construction site inspections is to ensure that construction materials and procedures are in line with the specifications of the building plans. These inspections include daily on-site site surveys, documentation of contractor activities, materials sampling and monitoring. Finally, after the construction project is complete, a final inspection is required to ensure that the building is compliant with the contract documents and has met all construction regulations. This includes the handover inspection, the punch list, and any warranty or condition associated with the building.
Pre-drywall/sheetrock inspections
Whether you are planning to buy a new home or you are already building one, you should arrange for a pre-drywall/sheetrock inspection. It is important to hire a professional to perform this inspection, and you should not hesitate to ask the builder for a pre-drywall inspection. Having the pre-drywall/sheetrock inspection allows you to see if there are any mistakes or problems before they are covered up by the drywall. In addition to completing the inspection, it is also necessary to schedule a second inspection of the finished project.
A pre-drywall/sheetrock inspection includes exterior coverings such as the roof and the walls. The inspector will look for any issues with the waterproofing and flashing around windows. He will also check for framing and bracing problems. A pre-drywall inspection should include a floor check as well, as the floor is connected to the foundation and many pipes run underneath it. The floor is also an important part of a building inspection, as it may have problems with water and electrical connections.
Another vital part of the home is the plumbing system. Before drywall is installed, the inspector will check the plumbing, piping, and installation. If any issues were discovered during the inspection, the home inspector will not only document them, but can also make suggestions for solutions. The inspector should also be aware of any issues or concerns with the plumbing system, as this could result in expensive repairs. In this way, he can prevent any future issues that could affect the quality of your new home.
The pre-drywall/sheetrock inspection also ensures proper installation. Before drywall is installed, it must be fastened properly. To ensure proper fastening, you should choose a low-VOC drywall adhesive. Then, you should verify the framing for structural issues, such as faulty or missing framing. Finally, you should inspect the framing for any missing or damaged areas before the drywall is installed.
Pre-sealing inspections
Regardless of whether you are purchasing a property or repairing an existing one, it is crucial to have building inspections done before sealing. A thorough inspection can reveal any underlying problems with a building, such as a live wire that was abandoned. It can also highlight hidden electrical boxes or plumbing issues. These issues can have serious financial consequences or pose a danger to the public. A qualified inspector will be able to spot any of these problems and follow a standardized inspection process. The end result is a comprehensive and accurate picture of the property.
For masonry buildings, the next inspection is 410 Pre-Grout, followed by 370 Strap & Shear. The inspector will inspect wall assemblies for cracks, holes, and other defects. He or she will also inspect the walls for manufacturer information and third-party evaluation report numbers. The building inspector will file the completed permit with the building department. The contractor should schedule the inspection before the walls are sealed.
Post-occupancy inspections
A Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) is required for any residential or commercial property. The document certifies that the property meets all applicable codes and is safe to occupy. In some areas, landlords are required to perform post-occupancy inspections, too, as a way to keep rental properties from becoming uninhabitable. The C of O will include the property’s address, legal description, zoning code, and owner, as well as any relevant safety notes.
The certificate of occupancy is conducted by a local building authority. It is done by an inspector approved by the local building authority and reviews the electrical wiring, plumbing, structural integrity, and other aspects of a building. It can also cover small details such as the condition of banisters and stairs. The inspection will give a clear picture of whether the property meets local building codes. During this process, a building inspector will look for any defects that may affect the property’s safety.
In some jurisdictions, post-occupancy inspections are required for new construction. They are necessary to ensure the safety of a property, as the certificate is an assurance for a prospective buyer or tenant. Some jurisdictions require the C of O to be renewed after certain events, such as the transfer of ownership or the sale of a home. If a homeowner or landlord fails to maintain a Certificate of Occupancy, the owner must reapply for the certificate.
In addition to the certificate of occupancy, a Post-occupancy inspection will be required if a home is sold or rented. The building inspection fee is paid by the seller, and any repairs or inspections required by the zoning authority are the responsibility of the seller. The inspection is important to ensure safety, especially if the home will be on the market. It is also important to have a fire marshal’s certificate of occupancy and a Fire Marshall’s inspection before the sale.
