A property inspection is a general physical examination of a property's condition, typically covering major building systems, structure, and site features, conducted before finalizing a lease or purchase. While a general property inspection provides a broad overview, specific concerns identified often warrant more specialized follow-up assessments, such as a dedicated structural inspection or roof inspection.
What a general property inspection typically covers
| System/Area | What's assessed |
|---|---|
| Structure | General condition of walls, foundation, framing |
| Roof | Visible condition, obvious signs of leaks or wear |
| HVAC/electrical | Basic functional assessment |
| Site/exterior | Parking lot, yard, dock equipment condition |
What to watch for before committing
Inspector qualifications for industrial property
Confirm your inspector has specific experience with industrial and warehouse properties, not just general commercial or residential inspection background.
Scope limitations understanding
Understand what a general property inspection does and doesn't cover, since specialized systems may need separate, more detailed assessment.
Follow-up specialized inspection triggers
Identify which findings warrant follow-up specialized inspections, such as structural, roof, or HVAC-specific assessment.
Documentation and photo evidence
Ensure the inspection produces thorough written documentation and photo evidence you can reference later.
Access to all relevant areas
Confirm the inspector has access to all relevant areas, including roof, mechanical rooms, and any areas not immediately visible.
Timing relative to contingency deadlines
Schedule the inspection with adequate time to review findings and negotiate before any contractual contingency deadlines.
When you need to know this
- Evaluating a candidate property before committing — obtaining a general condition assessment as part of due diligence
- Identifying areas needing specialized follow-up — determining which specific systems warrant deeper investigation
- Negotiating lease or purchase terms — using inspection findings as leverage for price or corrective action
- Establishing a baseline before occupancy — documenting condition for future reference and comparison
Frequently asked questions
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