BUILDING CHECKUP/PHYSICAL INSPECTIONS

Even though you are not currently planning on selling or listing your property for sale, you can significantly benefit by having it professionally evaluated by a qualified inspector. Just as we must schedule our human bodies for various comprehensive physical examinations and tests by our doctors as we grow older, we advocate that you give the same considerations to your aging building. As properties age, components (especially mechanical equipment and appliances) wear out and operate much less efficiently. In some cases, continued use past their "expected/typical" lifespan can present an immediate or latent hazard to occupants and/or increase the risk of property damage to the building or its contents if not maintained or in some cases replaced.

In the last 10 years, nearly all (90%+ per real estate transaction statistics) property purchases have included a professional independent inspection as an escrow contingency. If you have purchased your home more than 15 years ago there is a 25% (approx.) likelihood that it was NOT inspected as a condition of escrow. If you have owned it for more than 20 years the chances of it NOT being inspected at purchase go up to 50% (approx.). Most buildings purchased more than 25 years ago were not professionally inspected at all.

Other valid reasons to justify a professional inspection:
Alterations, remodels, additions, etc.: Over the years, it is likely that you have had work performed on your building by various contractors, handymen, laborers, family members, etc. Be advised that the knowledge, skills, and expertise levels (read: work quality) of these individuals can vary dramatically. Do not make the mistake of assuming that their work was completed in a proper "workmanlike manner". At times, it has been our experience, (even when it was claimed that the work was performed by a "licensed contractor"), that the work did NOT meet building standards, trade/industry practice, local building codes, and was generally substandard in overall workmanship!

Increased occupant safety: Building codes are amended, and in some cases completely rewritten, every three years. The intent is to help assure better quality construction and increased occupant safety. The property constructed in the 1950's is built to a far different (read: much less stringent) standard that one constructed today. Furthermore, the property constructed in the 1920's was likely built without the benefit of ANY written/enforced codes whatsoever! Over the years the building codes have changed resulting in significantly increased occupant safety. While "older" properties may not be required to be brought up to modern standards, most can benefit from some cost-effective upgrades. During the "Building Checkup/Physical" Inspection we will identify and advise areas where the building (and you) can benefit from upgrades or replacements in areas such as electrical, plumbing, mechanical, structural, and energy efficiency.