What to Expect During a Commercial Building Inspection
Cost, Scope, and Standards: What to Know About Commercial Building Inspections
Located in: OK, MO, KS & AR
Whether you’re investing in a retail center, managing a warehouse, or leasing a multifamily property, one thing is true: commercial real estate is complex. At Focus Building Inspections, we simplify it. As one of the only CCPIA and ASTM-certified commercial inspection teams in the region, we focus solely on commercial buildings—and it shows. Here’s what you can expect during a commercial inspection, and why choosing the right inspection team matters.
What Is a Commercial Building Inspection?
A commercial building inspection is a thorough, objective evaluation of a commercial property’s physical structure, major systems, and overall condition. Unlike a residential inspection, which is typically performed by a single generalist, a commercial inspection may involve a team of experts and follows a higher standard of due diligence to reflect the complexity and financial scale of commercial real estate.
At its core, the purpose of a commercial inspection is to identify existing issues, deferred maintenance, potential repair costs, safety hazards, and accessibility limitations. The inspector evaluates major systems—including the roof, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, structural framing, and life safety components—and provides the client with a detailed report that includes observations, photographic documentation, and professional recommendations.
What sets commercial inspections apart is the business lens through which they’re conducted. These inspections are not just about whether something is broken—they help clients understand how the property will perform as an income-generating asset and what hidden costs or risks may be involved in its operation or ownership. At Focus Building Inspections, we tailor every inspection to the type of property, the goals of the client, and the standards required by lenders, investors, or lease agreements.
Commercial Inspection Services to Consider for Comprehensive Due Diligence
A standard commercial property inspection includes:
Structural Elements (foundation, walls, framing)
Roofing Systems
HVAC / Mechanical Systems
Electrical & Plumbing Systems
Interior & Exterior Finishes
Fire & Life Safety Systems
Drainage and Paving
Also known as: Commercial Property Inspection, Commercial Building Inspection, Property Condition Assessment, Commercial Building Assessment
We also offer specialized assessments such as:
ADA Accessibility Survey
We assess the property for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), identifying barriers that may limit access for individuals with disabilities. Our report outlines deficiencies and provides practical recommendations to help ensure your building meets federal accessibility standards and reduces liability risk.
Capital Reserve Forecasts
This report outlines projected costs for major repairs and replacements over a multi-year period, helping owners plan long-term capital expenditures. It’s a vital tool for budgeting, asset management, and financial forecasting.
Triple Net Lease Assessments
We evaluate building systems and components to determine whether tenant responsibilities align with the lease terms. These assessments help landlords and tenants avoid disputes by clarifying financial obligations tied to property maintenance.
Maintenance Strategy Programs
Our team creates tailored maintenance schedules that reduce downtime, extend the life of building systems, and prevent costly emergency repairs. This proactive approach supports smooth building operations and preserves asset value.
Mold and Air Quality Testing
We test indoor air for contaminants, moisture intrusion, and mold growth that could impact occupant health or signal larger building issues. Results include lab analysis and recommendations for mitigation or remediation if needed.
Sewer Lateral Line Inspections
Using camera technology, we inspect sewer lateral lines for blockages, root intrusion, breaks, or deterioration. Early detection of these issues can prevent expensive backups and costly emergency repairs.
Insurance Assessments (Pre-Loss & Loss)
A Pre-Loss Assessment documents the property's current condition and systems before damage occurs, supporting faster, more accurate insurance claims. Post-loss inspections help verify damage and guide repair or restoration plans.
Lease Negotiations (NNN or Modified Gross Leases)
For tenants and landlords involved in Triple Net Lease or other commercial lease agreements, an inspection defines the condition of the property and clarifies who is responsible for what repairs—helping prevent future disputes.
How Much Does a Commercial Inspection Cost?
Pricing Commercial Property Inspections is Not A ONE-SIZE-FITS-All
Our proposals are always fair and industry-standard.
Cost is based on:
Building size & square footage
Property complexity & systems
Scope of work requested
Location and urgency
Most inspections start around $1,000, with large-scale properties or bundled services scaling upward. We deliver reports that provide real ROI—helping you avoid costly surprises, plan your capital, and protect your investment.
What Makes Someone Qualified to Inspect a Commercial Building?
It’s not just about credentials—it’s about commercial experience. At Focus Building Inspections:
We are certified by CCPIA and ASTM
We operate a team-based model, pulling in expert specialists when needed
We produce professional, annotated reports that are clear and actionable
We’re trusted by investors, brokers, lenders, and tenants because we know how to assess commercial real estate as a business asset—not just a building.
Our Hassle-Free Proposal and Scheduling Process
Submit the request form on our website
Get a proposal within 24 hours
Approve your quote and choose a time slot
Receive a scheduling confirmation + inspection portal access
Sign agreements & pay within 24 hours
Let us handle the rest—with excellent communication every step of the way
Why Clients Choose Focus Building Inspections
Thousands of inspections completed
Certified and specialized in commercial only
Fast, fair proposals and scheduling
Clear, sophisticated reports
Consistent 5-star service
Trusted by investors, brokers, property managers, and more
We serve Oklahoma, Missouri, Kansas, and Arkansas—and we’re ready to serve you.
Questions Answered in This Article
What is a commercial building inspection?
How is a commercial inspection different from a residential inspection?
Why would someone order a commercial inspection?
What does a commercial building inspection include?
What services are typically offered in addition to a basic inspection?
How much does a commercial inspection cost?
What factors affect the cost of a commercial building inspection?
What is a Capital Reserve Forecast and why is it important?
What is a Triple Net Lease Assessment and who benefits from it?
How does a Maintenance Strategy Program help property owners?
Why is mold and air quality testing important in commercial buildings?
What does a sewer lateral line inspection detect?
What is the purpose of a Pre-Loss or Loss Insurance Assessment?
What is an ADA Accessibility Survey and when should you get one?
Who is qualified to perform a commercial building inspection?
What certifications should a commercial inspector have?
How does the proposal and scheduling process work with Focus Building Inspections?
What can clients expect from a high-quality commercial inspection company?
What kinds of commercial buildings should be inspected?
What types of clients benefit from commercial inspections?
Bibliography
American Society for Testing and Materials. (2015). ASTM E2018-15: Standard guide for property condition assessments: Baseline property condition assessment process. ASTM International. https://www.astm.org/e2018-15.html
Certified Commercial Property Inspectors Association (CCPIA). (n.d.). Commercial property inspections. https://ccpia.org/commercial-inspections/
InterNACHI. (n.d.). International Standards of Practice for Inspecting Commercial Properties (ComSOP). International Association of Certified Home Inspectors. https://www.nachi.org/comsop.htm
U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division. (2010). ADA standards for accessible design. https://www.ada.gov/2010ADAstandards_index.htm
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). (2023). Mold and moisture. https://www.epa.gov/mold
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). (2023). Life safety code (NFPA 101). https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/all-codes-and-standards/list-of-codes-and-standards/detail?code=101