What is a General Building and Site Inspection for commercial properties? #

A General Building and Site Inspection is a baseline, non-invasive evaluation of a commercial property’s overall condition. It provides a high-level overview of the building structure, exterior envelope, interior spaces, and site features to help owners, buyers, and investors understand visible conditions and potential risks.

This inspection is designed as the minimum due diligence option for commercial real estate transactions.

What types of commercial properties does this inspection apply to? #

This service is suitable for a wide range of commercial properties, including:

• Office buildings
• Retail and mixed-use properties
• Warehouses and light industrial facilities
• Medical and professional buildings
• Multi-tenant commercial spaces

What does the inspection include? #

The General Building and Site Inspection includes a visual assessment of accessible areas, such as:

• Building exterior (walls, foundations, roofing from ground level)
• Interior common areas and accessible spaces
• Structural components visible without removal of finishes
• Site grading, drainage, parking areas, and walkways
• Visible mechanical, electrical, and plumbing components
• General life-safety and accessibility observations

The goal is to identify visible deficiencies, deferred maintenance, and areas that may require further evaluation.

What is not included in this inspection? #

This inspection does not include specialized or invasive evaluations, such as:

• HVAC performance testing
• Electrical panel load analysis
• Roof membrane or core sampling
• Sewer camera inspections
• Environmental or code compliance reviews
• Engineering calculations or destructive testing

Specialty inspections can be added separately if deeper analysis is required.

How is this different from a comprehensive commercial inspection? #

The General Building and Site Inspection provides a broad overview, while comprehensive inspections include:

• More detailed system evaluations
• Specialized contractor inspections
• Expanded reporting and documentation

This service is best suited for early-stage due diligence or situations where budget, time, or access is limited.

Who should order a General Commercial Building Inspection? #

This inspection is ideal for:

• Commercial property buyers seeking initial due diligence
• Investors evaluating acquisition risk
• Property owners planning future capital improvements
• Brokers and sellers preparing a property for market

How long does the inspection take? #

Inspection duration varies by property size and complexity:

• Small commercial buildings: approximately 2–3 hours
• Medium to large properties: half-day to full-day inspections

Reports are typically delivered within 10 business days.

What type of report will I receive? #

Clients receive a professional digital inspection report that includes:

• Photographic documentation
• Observations categorized by condition and concern
• Clear, plain-language explanations
• Recommendations for further evaluation where appropriate

Does this inspection meet lender or investor requirements? #

Many lenders and investors accept this inspection as preliminary due diligence. However, some transactions may require additional reports such as a Property Condition Assessment (PCA) or specialty system inspections.

We can coordinate additional services as needed.

Is this inspection a code or compliance inspection? #

No. This is not a code compliance, zoning, or environmental inspection. It is a condition-based visual evaluation intended to inform decision-making, not certify compliance.

How much does a General Commercial Building Inspection cost? #

Pricing is based on:

• Building size and use
• Number of structures
• Site complexity and access

This inspection represents the most cost-effective option within our commercial inspection offerings. Contact Arch Inspections for a property-specific quote.No. The General Building and Site Inspection is not a code compliance review or environmental assessment. For environmental or regulatory due diligence (such as Phase I Environmental Site Assessments), we can connect you with qualified environmental professionals.

Why choose Arch Inspections? #

Why choose Arch Inspections for commercial inspections?

Arch Inspections is led by licensed architects with experience in commercial building design, construction, and performance. Our inspections prioritize clarity, risk awareness, and practical insight helping clients make informed real estate decisions with confidence.