How to Be Commercial Property Inspector - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Feb 10, 2021 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The demand for property inspectors has grown significantly in recent years due to increasing concerns about property safety and security. As a result, businesses have had to invest in the services of a professional property inspector to assess the condition of their buildings and ensure that all safety requirements and regulations are being met. Property inspectors are responsible for conducting thorough examinations of the physical condition of commercial buildings, including the exterior and interior of the structure, to check for any structural damage, health hazards, fire and security risks, or other safety issues that could affect the safety of the occupants.

In addition, they must also be familiar with local building codes and regulations to ensure compliance with all applicable laws. By hiring a qualified commercial property inspector, businesses can ensure the safety of their properties and provide a safe environment for their customers and employees.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Certificate or Degree in Property Management. It is necessary to obtain an educational background in property management in order to become a commercial property inspector. This can be obtained through an accredited college or university.
Obtain a Licensing or Certification. Many states require commercial property inspectors to become licensed or certified. This is typically done through the states real estate commission.
Attend Training Courses. Most states require commercial property inspectors to attend additional training courses to ensure they are knowledgeable of the latest regulations and laws.
Obtain Experience in the Field. It is important for commercial property inspectors to gain experience in the field. This can be done by working as an assistant or trainee for a commercial property management company.
Become Familiar with Property Inspection Tools. Commercial property inspectors will need to familiarize themselves with the tools and equipment used to inspect properties. This includes thermal imaging cameras, moisture meters, and borescopes.
Become a Member of Professional Organizations. Becoming a member of professional organizations such as the National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI) or the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) is beneficial for commercial property inspectors. These organizations provide support and resources to their members.
Advertise Your Services. Once you are a licensed commercial property inspector, it is important to advertise your services in order to gain clients. This can be done through word of mouth, local advertisements, and even online platforms such as social media and professional websites.

In order to become a qualified and skilled commercial property inspector, one must have the necessary knowledge and skills. This includes a basic understanding of construction principles, an understanding of building codes, an ability to identify potential safety hazards, and the ability to effectively inspect and report on the condition of a property. Additionally, courses in business administration, accounting, or real estate may be beneficial to gaining the skills required for this profession. With these qualifications, one can become a competent commercial property inspector equipped to provide quality inspection services.

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Job Description

Conduct inspections of commercial properties to determine compliance with safety and building codes
Take measurements, photographs, and other documentation of commercial properties
Identify and document any building deficiencies
Research and review building plans, specifications, and other related documents
Prepare detailed reports to document findings
Collaborate with other professionals to resolve violations
Advise property owners on corrective actions and remedies to bring the property into compliance
Monitor progress of corrective actions to ensure compliance
Liaise with local building and safety departments to ensure adherence to regulations
Provide technical advice and support to clients

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of applicable building codes, safety regulations, and zoning ordinances
Understanding of building structures, systems, and components
Ability to identify risk factors associated with physical conditions of property
Knowledge of inspection methods and techniques
Ability to identify potential safety hazards
Excellent communication skills
Ability to create detailed inspection reports
Proficiency in using technology and software programs related to property inspection
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
Ability to think critically and make sound judgments

Having a keen eye for detail is an important skill for a Commercial Property Inspector. A Commercial Property Inspector must be able to observe and assess the condition of the property, including any existing damage, defects, or hazards. They must then be able to report their findings accurately and effectively in order to ensure that the property is safe and suitable for its intended use.

This requires a great deal of skill, knowledge, and experience when it comes to analysing the condition of the building structure, its ventilation systems, electrical wiring, plumbing, roofing, foundation and other elements. Failing to properly assess any of these areas could lead to costly repairs or potential safety issues, so it's essential for an inspector to be thorough and vigilant when conducting an inspection. The inspector must also have the ability to clearly communicate their findings to other parties such as landlords, tenants, and buyers.

being familiar with relevant building codes and regulations is crucial for a Commercial Property Inspector to ensure that the property meets all legal standards.

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Frequent Interview Questions

How would you describe your experience in commercial property inspection?
What do you consider to be the most important aspects of commercial property inspection?
What challenges have you encountered while conducting commercial property inspections?
What safety precautions do you take when conducting commercial property inspections?
How do you evaluate the condition of a property during inspection?
What tools and equipment do you use to conduct inspections?
How do you investigate and report any issues found during an inspection?
How do you ensure accuracy and attention to detail when conducting an inspection?
What customer service skills do you bring to the job of commercial property inspector?
How do you stay up-to-date with advancements in commercial property inspection techniques?

Common Tools in Industry

Digital Camera. Takes photographs of the property to document its condition. (eg: documenting areas of water damage)
Ladder. Used for inspecting high areas of the property. (eg: looking for roof damage)
Flashlight. Used for seeing in dark spaces or examining small areas of the property. (eg: checking for mold)
Measurement Tape. Used for measuring spaces and objects within the property. (eg: measuring window widths)
Notebook/Pen. Used for taking notes while inspecting the property. (eg: noting building code violations)
Moisture Meter. Used for detecting moisture in walls and other areas of the property. (eg: testing for structural integrity)
Thermal Imaging Camera. Used for detecting temperature changes in building materials. (eg: identifying heat loss in insulation)
Hammer/Screwdriver. Used for testing walls and other materials for signs of wear or damage. (eg: checking for loose wiring)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI)
International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI)
Building Owners and Managers Association International (BOMA)
National Association of Commercial Building Inspectors (NACBI)
American Association of Commercial Real Estate Inspectors (AACREI)
National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI)
American Institute of Real Estate Appraisers (AIREA)
Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM)
International Code Council (ICC)
National Institute of Building Inspectors (NIBI)

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Common Important Terms

Property Condition Assessment (PCA). A comprehensive examination of the physical condition of a property, including the structure, systems, and components.
Building Codes. Regulations that establish minimum standards for the design, construction, alteration, and maintenance of buildings and other structures.
Zoning Regulations. Rules that determine the type of activities that can occur in a given area.
Environmental Compliance. Meeting the standards set by federal and state laws to protect the environment.
Asbestos Testing. Analysis of building materials to determine whether they contain asbestos, which can be hazardous to human health.
Fire Safety. Practices and procedures that help prevent fires and protect lives in the event of a fire.
Accessibility. Ensuring that spaces and buildings meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Structural Integrity. An evaluation of a buildings ability to withstand loads and stresses without failing.
Security. Identification and implementation of measures that protect people and property from harm.
Pest Control. Inspection and treatment of an area to reduce the presence of insects and other pests.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Commercial Property Inspector?

A Commercial Property Inspector is a professional who inspects and evaluates commercial properties for safety and compliance with building codes, regulations, and other standards. They may also provide advice on maintenance and upgrades to improve the property's value.

What qualifications are needed to become a Commercial Property Inspector?

To become a Commercial Property Inspector, you must have at least a high school diploma and have experience in construction, engineering, or related fields. Additionally, certification from an accredited organization such as the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) is recommended.

What does a Commercial Property Inspector do?

A Commercial Property Inspector evaluates the condition of a commercial property and its components, such as walls, floors, roofs, plumbing, electrical systems, HVAC systems, and more. They also assess the exterior of the property for potential hazards, such as broken windows or loose siding.

How much does a Commercial Property Inspector earn?

The average salary for a Commercial Property Inspector is around $60,000-$70,000 per year. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the size and complexity of the inspected properties.

What is the job outlook for Commercial Property Inspectors?

The job outlook for Commercial Property Inspectors is positive. As businesses and organizations continue to expand and upgrade their buildings and facilities, the need for Certified Property Inspectors is expected to increase.