FAQ: What does a commercial building inspection include in Georgia?

A commercial building inspection in Georgia is a comprehensive, visual evaluation of a non-residential property’s major systems and components to help buyers, investors, lenders, and owners understand the building’s condition and associated risks. While the exact scope can vary by property type and client needs, most inspections include the following areas:

Structural systems are reviewed for visible signs of movement, cracking, settlement, or deterioration in foundations, framing, and load-bearing elements.
Roofing systems are evaluated for material condition, drainage, penetrations, flashing, and evidence of leaks or remaining service life concerns.
Exterior components such as walls, cladding, windows, doors, balconies, and façade elements are inspected for damage, water intrusion, and maintenance issues.
Interior areas are examined for finishes, ceilings, floors, walls, and common spaces, with attention to moisture staining, deterioration, and safety concerns.
HVAC systems are assessed to identify equipment type, age, condition, operation at the time of inspection, and visible deficiencies.
Electrical systems are reviewed at panels, service equipment, and accessible components for safety issues, capacity concerns, and observable defects.
Plumbing systems are evaluated for visible piping, fixtures, water heaters, drainage performance, and signs of leaks or improper installations.
Fire and life-safety features such as fire alarms, extinguishers, exit signage, and egress pathways are observed for general condition and apparent deficiencies.
Site features including parking areas, sidewalks, grading, drainage, retaining walls, and accessibility routes are inspected for safety and functional concerns.

In Georgia, commercial inspections often also include accessibility (ADA) observations, deferred maintenance identification, and risk-based commentary to support due diligence. Many inspections can be expanded to include Property Condition Assessments (PCAs), cost-to-cure estimates, sewer scopes, or environmental assessments depending on transaction requirements.

It’s important to note that commercial inspections are not code compliance audits or engineering studies, but they provide critical insight into current conditions, potential liabilities, and capital planning needs—making them a key part of informed commercial real estate decision-making in Georgia.